Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsIt's a Southern thing - Downtown DurhamBlackened Chicken Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

Blackened Chicken Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

4 cheese blend, blackened chicken, served in a cast iron skillet.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

Method

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Chicken

    Rub the chicken breasts with blackening seasoning. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.

  3. 3

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.

  4. 4

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing well to combine.

  5. 5

    Assemble the Dish

    Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the cast iron skillet. Slice the blackened chicken and place on top. Sprinkle bread crumbs over the chicken and mac and cheese.

  6. 6

    Bake

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled mac and cheese for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

  7. 7

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

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