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Delicious serving of Cajun Chicken Macaroni and Cheese topped with herbs.

Cajun Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

A creamy, spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, featuring tender chicken and bold Cajun flavors for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Choose high-quality pasta for the best bite.
Chicken
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced Thigh meat can be used for richer flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Neutral oil can work as well.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for searing chicken) Salted butter is acceptable but reduce added salt later.
Roux and Sauce
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for roux) Fresh butter helps the roux brown gently.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Cook briefly to avoid a raw taste.
  • 1.5 cups whole milk Keeps the sauce creamy.
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream Adds silkiness; can substitute with yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Shred your own for best melting and flavor.
  • 4 oz cream cheese Room temperature blends easier.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Finely chopped shallot can be used as well.
  • 0.5 tsp paprika Smoked paprika adds warmth.
Garnish
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Searing Chicken
  1. Toss the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  2. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking until the mixture thickens.
  3. Stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
  2. Return the chicken and pasta to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
Serving
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For a silkier finish, remove the pan from heat before finishing with cheddar and cream cheese, then stir until smooth.