Chicken Tender Mac & Cheese

This recipe is great when you’re craving something comforting and cozy. To keep it healthier, choose lightly breaded chicken tenders that are low in saturated fat – I like the Just Bare brand. For the Mac, Annie’s makes a good version that can be dressed up with some peas and corn. If you want to pack in more protein or reduce carbs, try the Banza brand which makes their pasta out of chickpeas. Just thoroughly strain and rinse the Banza to avoid any gumminess. With some smart substitutions, you can feel good about enjoying this quick, cozy meal.

Ingredients

• Lightly breaded chicken tenders, frozen (‘Just Bare’ brand)
• 1 box macaroni & cheese 1 bag instant mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup frozen peas (or your desired veggie)
• 1/4 cup frozen corn (or your desired veggie)

Instructions

1. Preheat an air fryer to 350°F. Air fry chicken tenders for 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through. Alternatively, chicken tenders can be cooked in the oven.
2. While chicken cooks, sauté the frozen peas and carrots in a skillet with 1/4 tbsp oil over medium-high heat until lightly charred, about 5 minutes.
3. Boil some water and cook pasta according to box instructions. If using chickpea pasta, strain and rinse very well to remove excess starch.
4. Combine mac & cheese with sauce per instructions.
5. Cut chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces.
6. Combine chicken tenders, mac & cheese, peas, and corn.
7. OPTIONAL: Sprinkle lightly with crushed red pepper flakes.
8. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy!
9. This recipe makes two servings. If cooking for one, place the other half into a Tupperware and eat for lunch or dinner the next day.