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Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe with 5 Irresistible Flavors

Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
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Try this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe to enjoy bold flavors and creamy comfort that satisfy your hunger instantly

Ingredients

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  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking chicken)

    • Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to bake the mac and cheese.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  • While pasta cooks, season the diced chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning evenly.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually pour in the warmed milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  • Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
  • Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all flavors evenly.
  • Fold in the cooked chicken and drained macaroni until everything is well coated in the cheese sauce.
  • To serve immediately: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and enjoy.
  • If baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly on top for a crunchy finish.
  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let everything set and cool slightly.

    • Notes

    A hearty and flavorful Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese combining creamy cheese sauce with spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken and tender macaroni. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd with an option to bake for a crispy topping.

    Find it online: https://mekara.info/cajun-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe-flavors/