Name: Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 8 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta; 3 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour; 1 ½ cups milk; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

When comfort food meets Cajun flair, something magical happens. This Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese is a creamy, spicy, ultra-satisfying dish that takes your classic mac to a whole new level. Packed with tender chunks of seasoned chicken and swirls of cheesy, melty pasta, it’s a weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again.

What makes this dish special is the bold Cajun spice blend that gives it warmth and depth without overwhelming the creamy cheese sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or serving a crowd, this is the kind of Southern-inspired twist that turns a nostalgic favorite into a standout meal.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Creamy meets spicy: It balances rich, cheesy comfort with bold Cajun flavors.
Hearty and satisfying: With chicken and pasta, it’s a full meal in one bowl.
Customizable heat: You can dial the spice up or down to suit your preference.
Easy to make: Straightforward ingredients and quick prep make this a reliable weeknight favorite.
Great for leftovers: The flavors deepen and get even better the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese, a few kitchen tools are essential:

Large skillet or cast-iron pan: Crucial for searing the chicken with Cajun spices to lock in flavor and form a golden crust.
Large saucepan or Dutch oven: Ideal for preparing the cheese sauce and combining all the ingredients evenly.
Whisk: Key for making a smooth, lump-free roux and creamy cheese base.
Colander: For draining the cooked pasta without losing any valuable starch.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring everything together without damaging your nonstick pans.

Each tool ensures that texture, flavor, and ease all come together without stress. Take your time prepping each stage for the most flavorful and creamy result.

Ingredients for the Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Chicken breast or thighs: The protein-packed base of this dish, absorbing all those Cajun spices beautifully.
Cajun seasoning: The hero of the flavor. Spicy, smoky, and slightly herby.
Elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta: Holds onto the creamy sauce with every bite.
Butter: Used for both cooking and building a roux for the cheese sauce.
Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into that perfect velvety texture.
Milk and heavy cream: The combo creates a rich and smooth base.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden goodness.
Mozzarella cheese: Adds that stretchy, creamy factor.
Parmesan cheese: For sharpness and depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Fresh parsley: Optional, but brightens the final dish with color and freshness.

How To Make the Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub your chicken pieces generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with melted butter, sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until melted.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated and warmed through.

Step 5: Optional Bake

For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with more cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Cajun spice for an extra kick. It pairs perfectly with a light side salad or roasted green beans.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess. This dish also freezes well—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.