Name: Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re ready for a comfort food classic with a whole lot of personality, this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation. Imagine tender Cajun-spiced chicken mingling with creamy, ultra-cheesy macaroni that’s topped with a golden, bubbling parmesan finish. One bite and you’ll know why it’s a favorite: it’s richly satisfying, sassy with spice (but not overwhelming), and packed with flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This lineup of ingredients is simple but mighty—each one plays a starring role in building real Cajun flavor, creamy texture, and that signature golden color. Gather everything before you start and you’ll breeze right through this soul-satisfying recipe.

Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quicker, juicier cooking and easy bites in every forkful.
Cajun seasoning: This is the heart of the dish—use your favorite blend for bold, smoky, spicy flavor that sets this mac apart.
Olive oil: For searing the chicken until perfectly golden and keeping everything moist.
Elbow macaroni: This classic shape soaks up all the cheesy sauce, making every bite dreamy.
Unsalted butter: Butter forms the creamy base of the sauce—unsalted helps you control the final seasoning.
All-purpose flour: Helps create a roux, which thickens your luscious cheese sauce.
Milk: Provides creaminess and makes the cheese sauce silky smooth.
Heavy cream: Adds richness for that extra-indulgent, unforgettable taste.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers the classic mac and cheese flavor—go sharp for extra tang.
Shredded pepper jack cheese: Brings a hint of heat and even more meltiness.
Smoked paprika: Infuses the whole dish with subtle smoky depth.
Garlic powder: Lends a savory backbone to the sauce without overpowering.
Salt and pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning—taste as you go!
Grated Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkling for a bubbling, golden crust.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh, herby flavor right before you dig in.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. You want the pasta to have a little bite since it will cook further once combined with the sauce. Drain it well and set aside—it’ll be ready for all that cheesy goodness soon.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until every piece is thoroughly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high and add the chicken. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is golden and cooked through. Set the finished chicken aside while you work on the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet (hello, flavor!), reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute to create a blond roux—this is the start of your dreamy sauce. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking smoothly to banish lumps. Let it gently simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Spices

Take a moment to stir in the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, smoked paprika, garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and your sauce is thick, creamy, and beautifully speckled with spice. It’ll smell absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni and seared Cajun chicken right into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir everything together gently until every bite is coated with that luscious, spicy, cheesy magic. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Broil with Parmesan (Optional but Irresistible!)

If you want the classic baked mac ‘n’ cheese finish, transfer everything to a baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it—perfection happens fast!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, shower the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Bring it straight to the table while it’s still bubbling—you’re officially ready to enjoy homemade Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe goodness.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch, but you can also try a dash of extra Cajun seasoning, sliced green onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra punch. These simple toppers add color and a flavorful flourish that welcomes everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe is a meal on its own, but it’s pure comfort when served with a light, crisp salad or simple sautéed greens. Warm buttery garlic bread or a pile of roasted veggies are also delicious, balancing the richness and giving guests something to mop up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your cheesy masterpiece into party-ready portions by serving in mini ramekins or individual oven-safe bowls, or offer it up family-style in the center of the table for everyone to scoop. For a wow factor, try topping each serving with extra seared chicken or grill marks made in a hot skillet—it’s all about that irresistible presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any remaining Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe in a well-sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before covering to keep it from getting soggy, and don’t forget to scoop in all that delicious sauce!

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for future cravings—simply scoop portions into airtight, freezer-friendly containers. It’s best enjoyed within a month; thaw overnight in the fridge for the creamiest results post-freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm portions in a microwave or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep the mac and cheese wonderfully creamy and full of life.

FAQs

How spicy is the Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe?

The spice is totally customizable! Using the suggested amount of Cajun seasoning and pepper jack cheese gives a gentle warmth that’s family friendly, but you can add or reduce Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred kick.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! While elbows are traditional, anything with grooves or nooks, like cavatappi, shells, or rotini, will cradle that dreamy cheese sauce beautifully.

What kind of Cajun seasoning works best?

Any store-bought or homemade Cajun blend works—just look for one with a balance of paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs. Pick one you truly enjoy since it sets the entire flavor profile!

Can this recipe be made gluten free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the roux. Double-check your Cajun seasoning to ensure it’s gluten free as well.

What can I add for extra Cajun flair?

A little cooked andouille sausage, sautéed bell peppers, or even a handful of corn give this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe true Louisiana personality! Don’t be afraid to make it your own.

Final Thoughts

This creamy, spicy, and impossibly cheesy Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe brings a big bowl of joy to the table with every batch. If you’re searching for a meal that’s cozy, bold, and unforgettable, give it a try—you’ll be counting down the days until you make it again!

Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the spicy and creamy goodness of this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe. Tender chicken, perfectly seasoned and mixed with cheesy macaroni, baked to perfection. A comfort food favorite with a Cajun twist!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cajun Chicken:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mac and Cheese:

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni: Prepare macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with Cajun seasoning. Cook in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and heavy cream. Stir in cheeses, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine and Bake: Add cooked macaroni and chicken to the sauce. Transfer to a baking dish, top with Parmesan, and broil until bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve.