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5 Amazing Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese Fixes

Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese
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Fix that flawed, bland mac and cheese recipe! We crafted this Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese to deliver creamy comfort with a welcome kick of spice. Get ready for indulgent flavor that always works.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Toss chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet or a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Do not boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the Dijon mustard, remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni and cooked chicken to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best melt, shred your own cheese; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that affect creaminess.
  • If your sauce gets too thick while waiting for the chicken, whisk in a splash of extra warm milk.
  • You can substitute smoked sausage for chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/cajun-chicken-mac-and-cheese-recipe/