Introduction
Hot Honey Tenders and Mac n’ Cheese is a bold and comforting dish that combines crispy chicken tenders with a rich, creamy mac n’ cheese, all elevated by the sweet heat of hot honey. This dish provides a balance of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a beloved comfort food choice for any occasion. Whether served for a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or as a game day snack, it’s sure to impress with its mouthwatering taste. The crispy fried chicken tenders add a satisfying crunch, while the mac n’ cheese offers the perfect creamy accompaniment. The hot honey drizzle adds a sweet and spicy twist, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
The History of Hot Honey Tenders and Mac n’ Cheese
Hot Honey Tenders and Mac n’ Cheese is a modern take on classic Southern comfort foods, with origins tied to the deep flavors of fried chicken and mac n’ cheese in the American South. The concept of pairing spicy elements with sweet honey has become increasingly popular in recent years, with hot honey becoming a trending condiment. Fried chicken itself has deep roots in Southern cuisine, dating back centuries, while mac n’ cheese was introduced to America by European settlers, eventually becoming a staple in many American households. The combination of these elements, alongside the addition of hot honey, showcases the creative and evolving nature of comfort food in the modern culinary scene.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Hot Honey Tenders:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tanginess)
For the Mac n’ Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your choice of pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of cayenne or paprika for added flavor (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders: In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken tenders in this mixture, making sure they are well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the oil and set them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce is well-blended and slightly warm.
- Prepare the Mac n’ Cheese: Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne or paprika if desired. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Assemble the Dish: Place a generous serving of mac n’ cheese on each plate. Top with crispy chicken tenders and drizzle with the hot honey sauce. Serve immediately for a deliciously indulgent meal.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Honey Tenders and Mac n’ Cheese
For the crispiest chicken tenders, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F is ideal. This ensures the chicken cooks quickly while maintaining a crispy exterior. To avoid soggy tenders, place them on a wire rack to cool instead of directly on a plate. For the mac n’ cheese, don’t overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce. For an extra creamy texture, use a combination of heavy cream and milk for the sauce. You can also try adding breadcrumbs on top of the mac n’ cheese and broiling it for a crunchy finish. Lastly, adjust the hot honey sauce to your personal taste—if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey; if you like it spicier, increase the amount of hot sauce.
Variations and Customizations
This dish is highly customizable depending on your preferences. For a smoky twist, try adding smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to the hot honey sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for the mac n’ cheese, such as gouda, fontina, or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor. For a healthier option, swap the fried tenders for grilled chicken or even baked chicken tenders. Additionally, the hot honey sauce can be made with other types of hot peppers, such as chipotle, for a more distinct flavor. You can also make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken tenders with crispy tofu or cauliflower.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Hot Honey Tenders and Mac n’ Cheese is undeniably delicious, it is also a rich and indulgent dish. The fried chicken and creamy cheese sauce can be high in calories, fat, and sodium, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. However, by substituting baked or grilled chicken for the fried tenders, and using lighter options like reduced-fat cheese or almond milk for the mac n’ cheese, you can make this dish healthier without sacrificing too much flavor. The honey used in the hot honey sauce provides some beneficial antioxidants, but the high sugar content should be considered. When preparing this dish, it’s also important to note that consuming it in large quantities may not be suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions related to fat, gluten, or dairy.
FAQ
- Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the hot honey sauce up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving. - Can I use a different type of pasta for the mac n’ cheese?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or shells. - Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more hot sauce or using a spicier variety, like sriracha or chili paste. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken tenders with breaded and fried tofu or cauliflower to make a vegetarian version of the dish.
hot honey tenders and mac n cheese recipe
Ingredients
- 8 strips frozen breaded chicken strips …[$5.53]
- 1 lb spiral or large elbow noodles …[$1.00]
- 4 strips bacon …[$1.84]
Honey Pepper Sauce:
- ¾ cup honey …[$2.88]
- 3 tbsp soy sauce …[$0.24]
- ¼ cup brown sugar …[$0.12]
- ¼ cup pineapple juice …[$0.12]
- 1 tbsp white vinegar …[$0.02]
- 1 tsp black pepper …[$0.92]
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper …[$0.04]
- ¼ tsp garlic powder …[$0.01]
- 1 dash paprika …[$0.05]
Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter …[$0.50]
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour …[$0.04]
- 1 cup heavy cream …[$1.15]
- 1½ cup milk …[$0.35]
- ½ cup parmesan cheese …[$1.25]
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese …[$1.50]
- 1 cup Colby Jack cheese …[$1.50]
Instructions
- Cook 4 strips of bacon until crispy, then chop and set aside for later.
- Cook 1 lb of spiral or large elbow noodles according to package directions and set aside.
- Bake 8 strips of frozen breaded chicken strips as per the package instructions and keep warm.
Honey Pepper Sauce:
- In a medium or small saucepan, combine all the ingredients: ¾ cup honey, 3 tbsp soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup pineapple juice, 1 tbsp white vinegar, 1 tsp black pepper, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and 1 dash of paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and let it cook until the rest of the dish is ready.
Cheese Sauce:
- Melt 4 tbsp butter in a large saucepan. Whisk in 4 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute over low to medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1½ cups of milk. Allow the mixture to warm up for about 5 minutes or until it thickens over medium heat.
- Add in the cheeses: ½ cup parmesan cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup Colby Jack cheese. Stir until all the cheese is melted and fully combined. Reduce the heat to low and toss in the cooked, drained pasta.
Put It Together:
- To serve, place a generous portion of mac and cheese on each plate and sprinkle with the chopped bacon.
- Dip the baked chicken strips into the warm honey pepper sauce, ensuring the breading is fully coated. Be careful not to leave them in the sauce too long, or the breading may start to fall off.
- Top the mac and cheese with the coated chicken and enjoy!