Description
Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious blend of creamy mac and cheese with Cajun-seasoned chicken, offering a spicy twist on a comfort food classic.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounce elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 ounce cream cheese or 1 cup Velveeta
- 2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Panko breadcrumbs, optional
Instructions
1. Start by boiling the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, toss the diced chicken with the Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked, then remove from the pan.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning to taste.
4. Stir in cream cheese or Velveeta, cheddar, and mozzarella (if using) until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bell pepper (if using) to the cheese sauce, gently stirring until evenly coated.
6. For an extra layer of texture, transfer to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Top with additional cheese or Panko breadcrumbs, then bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
To ensure your Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese turns out perfectly, do not overcook the pasta. The macaroni should be al dente as it will absorb the sauce while baking.
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 40 grams
- Cholesterol: 100 milligrams