Introduction
When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, nothing beats crispy fried chicken tenders served over creamy baked mac and cheese. Juicy, golden chicken pairs perfectly with rich, cheesy pasta for a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner recipes, quick weeknight meals, or family dinner ideas, this homemade classic is always a winning choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, juicy chicken with a perfectly seasoned coating.
- Rich, creamy homemade mac and cheese.
- Made with simple ingredients from any grocery store.
- Perfect for family dinners, game days, and special occasions.
- Kid-friendly and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken Tenders
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
- 12 ounces (340 g) elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine the chicken strips with the buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for extra tenderness.
2. Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to the package directions. Drain well and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated.
5. Bake the Mac and Cheese
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until hot and lightly golden. This baked finish is perfect for holiday entertaining and family gatherings.
6. Bread the Chicken
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little paprika. Remove the chicken from the marinade, coat each strip in flour, dip into the eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
7. Fry Until Crispy
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Fry the chicken tenders for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. These crispy tenders are also great for meal prep and make a budget-friendly weeknight dinner.
8. Assemble and Serve
Spoon a generous serving of creamy baked mac and cheese onto each plate and top with the crispy chicken tenders. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
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Pro Tips & Variations
For the crispiest chicken tenders, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying so the coating adheres better. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even browning. If you prefer an extra-crunchy coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
For healthy substitutions, bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying, and use reduced-fat milk and cheese in the mac and cheese. Whole wheat pasta also adds extra fiber without sacrificing flavor. Looking for budget-friendly tips? Swap chicken breasts for chicken tenders or boneless thighs, and use whatever shredded cheese you already have on hand.
This recipe is excellent for meal prep because both the chicken and mac and cheese reheat well. Store them separately to maintain the chicken’s crispiness. It’s also ideal for cooking for beginners since each step is straightforward and easy to follow. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce if you like a little heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the mac and cheese and bread the chicken in advance. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken and mac and cheese separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. The mac and cheese reheats beautifully, and the chicken can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.
Can beginners make this recipe?
Yes. The recipe uses simple techniques and common ingredients, making it a great choice for home cooks of all skill levels.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 890 |
| Protein | 54 g |
| Carbohydrates | 63 g |
| Fat | 47 g |
| Saturated Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this crispy fried chicken and creamy baked mac and cheese with coleslaw, roasted broccoli, green beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. It’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday dinners, family gatherings, game-day parties, or a comforting date night meal at home.
Conclusion
Few meals are as satisfying as crispy fried chicken tenders with rich, creamy baked mac and cheese. With its crunchy coating, tender chicken, and velvety cheese sauce, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite you’ll make again and again. Looking for the perfect dessert to go with this? Sweet in 30 has you covered →