🍽️ FittestMe.aiFoodsNutrients

Kids' Chicken Platter with Mac & Cheese Recipe

American · Main course · 40 min total

A fun and kid-friendly meal featuring crispy chicken tenders paired with creamy mac and cheese, perfect for little hands and big appetites.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chicken strips and buttermilk; refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken strip in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Place on baking sheet.
5. Bake chicken for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
6. Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
7. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
8. Gradually whisk in milk; cook, stirring, until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
9. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar until melted. Add macaroni and mix well.
10. Serve chicken strips alongside mac and cheese; sprinkle with paprika if desired.

Tips

• For extra crunch, spray chicken strips with cooking spray before baking.
• Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk.
• Swap chicken for turkey tenders if preferred.

More about Kids' Chicken Platter with Mac & Cheese →

AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms