Cajun Chicken Mac Cheese (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
450 grams chicken breast or thighs
→ Pasta
02 -
250 grams elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
→ Spices
03 -
15 grams Cajun seasoning
04 -
Salt to taste
05 -
Black pepper to taste
→ Dairy and Sauces
06 -
30 grams unsalted butter
07 -
30 grams all-purpose flour
08 -
480 milliliters whole milk
09 -
120 milliliters heavy cream
10 -
150 grams shredded sharp cheddar cheese
11 -
100 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
12 -
50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
→ Garnish
13 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Generously coat chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.
02 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside.
03 -
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux without browning. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
04 -
Slice or shred the cooked chicken. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce, gently stirring until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
05 -
Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with additional cheese or breadcrumbs if desired. Broil in a preheated oven for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
06 -
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an optional sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Serve immediately alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to adapt this dish for gluten intolerance.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.