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Crispy Chicken Tenders with Mac & Cheese

40-Minute Crispy Chicken Tenders with Irresistible Mac & Cheese


  • Author: ushinzomr
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Crispy chicken tenders served with creamy mac & cheese makes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Season chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Coat each tender in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
  5. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
  6. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk to make a roux.
  7. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce.
  9. Serve crispy tenders with mac & cheese.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, spray chicken with cooking oil before baking.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
  • Add garlic powder or cayenne for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, mac and cheese, easy dinner, homemade tenders