Save Juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders served alongside creamy, classic macaroni and cheese, a comforting duo perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
I loved making this meal for my family because everyone can customize their plate: some pile on extra cheese, some sneak a chicken tender into their mac! It's a guaranteed hit with little effort and lots of flavor.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenderloins: 500 g (1.1 lbs)
- All-purpose flour: 120 g (1 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 2 tbsp
- Panko breadcrumbs: 120 g (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 40 g (1/2 cup)
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp for chicken, 1/2 tsp for macaroni
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp for chicken, 1/4 tsp for macaroni
- Vegetable oil, for frying: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Elbow macaroni: 250 g (9 oz)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour (for roux): 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: 150 g (1 1/2 cups)
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Nutmeg (optional): 1/4 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with panko, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, then in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
- Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese:
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken tenders hot with a generous helping of macaroni and cheese on the side.
Save The kids always beg for seconds whenever this combo hits the table, and it's fun to watch them pair their favorite bites together. It's been a staple for cozy Sunday nights in our home.
Required Tools
You'll need three shallow bowls, a large skillet, saucepan, whisk, slotted spoon or tongs, large pot for pasta, and paper towels to drain the chicken.
Allergen Information
This dish contains gluten (flour, breadcrumbs, pasta), eggs, milk, and cheese. Some ingredients may contain traces of nuts or soy, so check packaging if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 690 calories, 33 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 39 g protein.
Save Serve with a crisp salad or sparkling lemonade for a full family-style meal. It comes together quickly and is a guaranteed favorite every time.
Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
Double-coating the chicken by dredging twice in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs before frying enhances crispiness and creates a crunchy crust.
- → Can I use different cheeses in the macaroni?
Yes, Gruyère or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used instead of cheddar for a unique flavor twist and mild spice.
- → What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Vegetable oil with a high smoke point is ideal to ensure even, golden frying without burning.
- → How do I prevent the macaroni cheese from becoming too thick?
Gradually whisking milk into the roux and cooking over medium heat while stirring prevents lumps and keeps the sauce creamy.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken tenders and macaroni cheese separately, then reheat gently before serving for convenience.