Easy Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese. This Easy Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese recipe takes a classic favorite and gives it a delightful twist. With crispy chicken tenders and creamy, cheesy macaroni, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.

Whether you prefer the richness of heavy cream or the lighter touch of whole milk, this recipe lets you choose the level of creaminess that suits your taste. For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness or spice, adding a drizzle of honey and a touch of pepper can take the flavors to the next level. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a new favorite.

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Recipe Details:

Aspect	Details
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes
Servings	4 servings

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Options:

• 1 lb frozen breaded chicken strips or popcorn chicken

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste

Optional Sweet and Spicy Finish:

• 2–3 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cook the frozen breaded chicken strips according to package instructions. Use an oven or air fryer for crispy results.

Step 2: Make the Mac and Cheese

• Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
• In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
• Gradually add whole milk or heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and let thicken.
• Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper if desired.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

Step 3: Combine and Customize

• Cut the cooked chicken strips into bite-sized pieces.
• Gently fold the chopped chicken into the mac and cheese.
• If desired, drizzle honey over the mixture and stir gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Add cracked black pepper for a subtle kick.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra cracked black pepper, or a light sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Tips and Tricks:

• Balance the Creaminess: Use heavy cream for a richer sauce or stick with whole milk for a lighter version.
• Optional Sweetness: Drizzle honey sparingly if you want a hint of sweetness.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese and bake briefly under the broiler for added texture.
• Keep Chicken Crispy: If you prefer, serve the chicken on top instead of mixing it in to maintain its crunch.

Variations:

• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower, then drizzle with honey if desired.
• BBQ Mac and Cheese: Mix a tablespoon of BBQ sauce with the cheese sauce for a smoky flavor.

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This Easy Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy and savory flavors, with options to add a sweet or spicy twist. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and the simplicity of this comforting dish!