Crispy Chicken Tenders Macaroni (Printable)

Golden crispy chicken paired with creamy, cheesy macaroni—perfect for cozy dinners or casual meals.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken Tenders

01 - 1.1 lbs chicken tenderloins
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tablespoons milk
05 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 teaspoon paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

→ Macaroni and Cheese

12 - 9 oz elbow macaroni
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
14 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
15 - 2 cups whole milk
16 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
17 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
18 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
19 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
20 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Arrange three shallow bowls with flour; beaten eggs mixed with milk; and a mixture of panko, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, then in egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture.
02 - 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 paper towels.
03 - Boil elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
04 - Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
05 - Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
06 - Plate the chicken tenders hot alongside a generous portion of macaroni and cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect pairing of crispy chicken and creamy mac & cheese for ultimate comfort food
  • Family-friendly meal that's quick and easy to prepare on busy nights
02 -
  • For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken tenders by repeating the breading steps
  • You can substitute cheddar with Gruyère or add a pinch of cayenne for added flavor
03 -
  • Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying for crispier tenders
  • Use freshly grated cheese in the macaroni for the smoothest, silkiest sauce
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