This flavorful dish combines spicy Cajun chicken with creamy mac and cheese loaded with sundried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a hearty, cheesy comfort meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mac & Cheese:
- 2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Chicken
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Set aside to rest, then slice.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Add Sundried Tomatoes and Spinach
- Stir the sundried tomatoes and spinach into the cheese sauce. Let the spinach wilt slightly.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, mixing until well-coated.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the mac and cheese in bowls or on plates. Top with sliced Cajun chicken and garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips
- Substitute pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
- Make it extra creamy by using half-and-half in place of milk.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Hashtags for Sharing
#CajunChicken #MacAndCheeseLovers #SundriedTomatoMagic #SpinachLove #ComfortFood #CreamyPasta #SpicyAndCheesy #DinnerGoals #SouthernComfort #FoodieFavorites