Save Juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders served alongside creamy, classic macaroni and cheese—a comforting duo perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Every time I make this combo, it vanishes in minutes. The tenders get rave reviews from both kids and adults, and the macaroni and cheese always brings back memories of comforting home-cooked meals.
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)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 40 g (1/2 cup)
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil (for frying): 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Elbow macaroni: 250 g (9 oz)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 150 g (1 1/2 cups)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Ground 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 3–4 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 and cook until slightly thickened, about 3–4 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 like to help with breading the chicken tenders, and the cheesy macaroni is always a requested comfort food when the weather turns chilly.
Required Tools
3 shallow bowls, large skillet, saucepan, whisk, slotted spoon or tongs, large pot for pasta, paper towels
Allergen Information
Contains: Gluten (flour, breadcrumbs, pasta), eggs, milk, cheese (dairy). May contain traces of nuts or soy depending on cheese and breadcrumbs. Always check labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 690, total fat: 33 g, carbohydrates: 58 g, protein: 39 g per serving
Save This is a meal that everyone looks forward to—creamy, crispy, utterly delicious comfort food at its best.
Common Questions
- → How do I get the chicken tenders extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken tenders by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps before frying.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses in the macaroni?
Yes, cheddar can be swapped with Gruyère for a different flavor, and you can add a pinch of cayenne for a slight spicy kick.
- → What oil is best for frying the chicken tenders?
Vegetable oil is ideal due to its high smoke point, allowing the tenders to fry evenly and crisp without burning.
- → How do I ensure the macaroni cheese sauce is smooth?
Gradually whisk milk into the roux while cooking and stir continuously to avoid lumps, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly before adding cheese.
- → Can this dish be served with side dishes?
Yes, it pairs well with a fresh side salad or light beverages like fruity white wine or sparkling lemonade.