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
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.
Notes
- You can add sautéed bell peppers or andouille sausage for extra Cajun flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
