Save Juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders served alongside creamy, classic macaroni and cheese: a comforting duo perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
I fondly remember making this meal on busy weeknights when everyone craved something familiar and satisfying. The classic combination always brings smiles around the 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 & 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp & 1/4 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)
- 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, 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 This meal is a frequent request at our house: the kids love helping with the breading, and everyone ends up with second helpings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a fresh side salad to balance the richness, and offer sparkling lemonade or a crisp, fruity white wine for adults.
Required Kitchen Tools
You'll need three shallow bowls, a large skillet, a saucepan, whisk, slotted spoon or tongs, a large pot for the pasta, and paper towels.
Allergen & Nutrition Information
This dish contains gluten, eggs, milk, and cheese. Each serving provides approximately 690 calories, 33 g fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 39 g protein.
Save This comforting dinner comes together easily and delivers a crowd-pleasing result every time. Enjoy it warm and savor the classic flavors.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps before frying.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used in the macaroni?
Yes, you can replace cheddar with Gruyère or use other cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
- → What oil is best for frying the chicken tenders?
Use vegetable oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure even frying and crisp texture.
- → Is it necessary to season the breadcrumb mixture?
Seasoning the breadcrumbs with Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper enhances flavor and creates a tasty crust.
- → How do I prevent the macaroni cheese from being too thick or thin?
Gradually whisk in milk while cooking the roux, and cook until the sauce reaches a creamy, slightly thick consistency before adding cheese.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Prepare the components separately and reheat gently before serving to maintain texture and flavor.