Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food with a kick: Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese. This rich, creamy, and slightly spicy dish blends juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with ultra-cheesy macaroni for the perfect dinner that’s both indulgent and soul-warming. It’s the kind of meal you look forward to all day and the one that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

With its blend of smoky heat and creamy goodness, this Cajun-inspired mac and cheese is a perfect balance of bold flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a cozy date night, it delivers that creamy-crunchy contrast thanks to its golden baked top and gooey interior.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, spicy, and comforting. The Cajun spice blend infuses the chicken with flavor that doesn’t overpower but perfectly complements the cheese sauce. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta like elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or shells work best. Their ridges and curves catch all the creamy cheese sauce and spices, delivering a satisfying bite every time. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, which doesn’t hold sauce as well.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken breasts – The protein star of this recipe, seasoned with bold Cajun spices for flavor-packed bites.

Elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta – These shapes hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully, making each bite extra creamy.

Butter – Essential for building the roux and adding richness to the sauce.

All-purpose flour – Used to thicken the cheese sauce into a luscious, silky consistency.

Milk – Forms the base of the creamy cheese sauce.

Heavy cream – Adds extra richness and smoothness.

Sharp cheddar cheese – Provides a strong, tangy cheese flavor.

Monterey Jack cheese – Melts smoothly and adds creamy texture.

Cajun seasoning – The flavor powerhouse for both the chicken and the cheese sauce.

Garlic powder – Deepens the savory notes of the dish.

Paprika – Adds color and smoky warmth.

Salt and pepper – For seasoning balance throughout.

Fresh chives or parsley – For garnish and a pop of freshness.

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How To Make the Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni or cavatappi pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Coat diced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with a little oil, sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Turn off the heat and stir in sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with additional Cajun seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Fold the cooked pasta and Cajun chicken into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Step 6: Bake (Optional)

Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and bubbling on top.

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How to Serve Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

This dish serves 4 to 6 people generously. Serve it hot straight from the skillet or baking dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

Storing Leftovers the Right Way

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cheese sauce texture, but fresh is best with this one.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just season it with Cajun spices and warm it in a pan before adding to the cheese sauce.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?
It can be mildly spicy, but heat levels vary by brand. Adjust to taste or use a homemade blend.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for the roux.

What cheeses work best besides cheddar and Monterey Jack?
Try Gruyère, Pepper Jack for extra heat, or even a little cream cheese for extra richness.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble the dish (without baking), refrigerate, and bake just before serving for best results.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re craving more bold and comforting pasta recipes, you’ll enjoy these reader favorites:

• Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo for a seafood twist.
• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake with earthy flavor.
• Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a creamy classic.
• Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake for a lighter baked option.
• Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo for a Tuscan-inspired flair.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go bold with extra Cajun heat? Add a crunchy topping? Or keep it creamy and classic?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions welcome—let’s cook and share together. For even more recipes, follow me on Life With Livia.

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