Pin Juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders served alongside creamy, classic macaroni and cheese, making this comforting duo perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
The first time I cooked this for my family, it was an instant hit. The crispy chicken paired with macaroni satisfied both kids and adults at our table.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenderloins: 500 g (1.1 lbs)
- All-purpose flour: 120 g (1 cup)
- Large eggs: 2
- 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 (plus 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp for macaroni)
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp (plus 1/4 tsp for macaroni)
- Vegetable oil: 120 ml (1/2 cup) for frying
- Elbow macaroni: 250 g (9 oz)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp (for macaroni)
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups) for sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 150 g (1 1/2 cups)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with panko, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then in the egg mixture, then in the breadcrumb mixture. 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 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 slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; cook until cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Serve:
- Serve chicken tenders hot with a generous helping of macaroni and cheese on the side.
Pin We always gather around the table, laughing and sharing stories while enjoying chicken tenders and creamy macaroni—true comfort food moments.
Required Tools
3 shallow bowls, large skillet, saucepan, whisk, slotted spoon or tongs, large pot for pasta, paper towels
Allergen Information
Contains gluten, eggs, milk, and cheese. May contain traces of nuts or soy depending on cheese and breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 690, Total Fat: 33 g, Carbohydrates: 58 g, Protein: 39 g
Pin Enjoy this meal straight from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. Leftovers make a great lunch the next day.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I achieve extra crispy chicken tenders?
Double-coat the chicken tenderloins by dipping them twice in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture for an extra crunchy texture.
- → Can I substitute cheeses in the macaroni?
Yes, cheddar can be replaced with Gruyère for a slightly nutty flavor, and you can mix cheeses to customize richness and taste.
- → What oil is best for frying chicken tenders?
Vegetable oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point works well to achieve even frying and a crispy crust.
- → How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Gradually whisk milk into the roux and cook gently until thickened before adding cheese, stirring continuously to ensure smoothness.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken and macaroni dish?
A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness, and a light white wine or sparkling lemonade enhances the flavors.