Crispy Cajun Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

For the Chicken

* 2 chicken breasts, sliced into tenders

* 1 cup flour

* 1 cup breadcrumbs

* 1 egg

* ½ cup buttermilk

* 1 teaspoon paprika

* 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

* ½ teaspoon garlic powder

* ½ teaspoon onion powder

* Salt and black pepper

* Oil for frying

 For the Mac and Cheese

* 2 cups elbow macaroni

* 2 tablespoons butter

* 2 tablespoons flour

* 2 cups milk

* 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

* ½ cup mozzarella cheese

* ½ teaspoon garlic powder

* Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Instructions

* Prepare the chicken: Season chicken tenders with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

* Set up the coating: Place flour in one bowl. Whisk egg and buttermilk in another. Add breadcrumbs and a little Cajun seasoning to a third bowl.

* Coat the chicken: Dip each tender in flour, then buttermilk mixture, and finally breadcrumbs. Press gently to create an even coating.

* Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken tenders for 4–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temperature). Drain on a paper towel.

* Cook the pasta: Boil macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

* Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened.

* Add the cheese: Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

* Combine: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.

* Serve: Plate creamy mac and cheese with crispy chicken tenders. Serve hot.