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Close up of glossy orange cheddar cheese sauce on elbow macaroni in a white bowl. (Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese)

Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Crispy Comfort Bowl

This Chicken Tender Mac and Cheese features a glossy orange cheddar sauce and extra-crispy fried chicken. A Pinterest-perfect comfort meal topped with fresh scallions and red pepper flakes for the ultimate flavor profile.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Recipe
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni 450g
  • 1 lb breaded chicken tenders 450g, cooked until crispy
  • 4 cups sharp orange cheddar 450g, freshly grated
  • 3 cups whole milk 720ml
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter 56g
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 30g
  • 3 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Dutch Oven or Large Saucepan For the cheese sauce
  • 1 Whisk To ensure a smooth sauce

Method
 

Prep and Cook
  1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside, do not rinse.
  2. Cook chicken tenders until deep golden-brown and craggy. Slice diagonally into thick pieces to reveal juicy white meat.
  3. Melt butter in a large pan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes over medium heat.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Reduce heat and stir in grated cheddar until glossy and vibrant orange.
  5. Toss pasta in the sauce. Serve in a white bowl topped with sliced chicken, scallions, and red pepper flakes.

Notes

Use block cheese for a smoother melt.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.