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Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese


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  • Author: Keyla Stewart
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Creamy, spicy, and soul-warming, this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese brings Southern comfort with bold flavor and melty cheese.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (salt-free or low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 oz Velveeta, cubed
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for topping)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 8 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

Instructions

  • Season and Cook the Chicken: Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through. Rest, then dice or shred.
  • Sauté Peppers: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove and set aside.
  • Make a Roux: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  • Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in milk and broth. Simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Melt Cheese: Stir in Velveeta and cheddar, a bit at a time, until fully melted. Add garlic powder, paprika, and season to taste.
  • Combine and Cook: Stir in uncooked macaroni, cooked chicken, and sautéed peppers. Cover and simmer on low for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender.
  • Optional Baking Step: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheddar, and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Sub chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Use Colby Jack or cream cheese as a Velveeta alternative.
  • For less heat, use a mild Cajun or Creole blend.
  • Great with sides like cornbread, fried okra, or sweet pickles.
  • Reheat with added milk or broth to revive creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop / Optional Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern, American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg