Kids Recipe

Prepare chicken

Slice the chicken breast into 6–8 finger-sized strips (about 1/2 inch thick). Pat dry with paper towels.

Set up breading station

Place the flour mixed with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper and 1/4 tsp paprika in one shallow dish. In a second dish whisk the egg with 3 tbs milk. In a third dish place the breadcrumbs.

Coat the tenders

Dredge each chicken strip first in flour (shake off excess), then dip into the egg mixture, then press into the breadcrumbs so they are evenly coated. Set on a plate while you heat the oil.

Cook fries

If using frozen fries, bake or air-fry according to package instructions (typically 20–25 minutes at 200°C / 400°F in oven, turning once). If using fresh fries, toss potato sticks with 1 tbs oil and a pinch of salt and bake at 220°C/425°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp, turning halfway.

Shallow-fry chicken

Heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 175°C/350°F). Add chicken tenders in a single layer without crowding and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F. Transfer to a paper-towel lined plate to drain.

Serve chicken tenders warm with fries and ketchup. Allow to cool slightly for young children and cut strips as needed for easier eating.

Cook pasta

Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just tender (al dente), about 7–8 minutes. Reserve 2 tbs pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Make cheese sauce

In the same saucepan, melt 1 tbs butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 tbs flour and cook 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually whisk in 0.75 cups milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened (2–3 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in reserved pasta water 1 tbs at a time to reach a creamy consistency. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch of pepper.

Combine

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Prepare fruit

Wash and cut fruit into child-friendly bite-sized pieces. If using apple or banana, toss pieces with 1/2 tbs lemon juice to prevent browning.

Finish

Combine fruit in a small bowl, drizzle with 1 tsp honey if using, toss gently, and portion into a small cup. Chill briefly if desired.