Creamy Cajun Chicken Shells
Creamy Cajun Chicken Shells are a delectable, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a spicy Cajun kick. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home, making it perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. With its rich aromas and vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your cravings for something special.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced chicken breasts in olive oil for 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic mid-way through cooking.
- Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over chicken; stir well and cook for another minute.
- Lower the heat and mix in softened cream cheese. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Gently fold cooked pasta shells into the sauce mixture and add chopped green onions.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions or Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute shrimp for chicken or add sautéed bell peppers for extra crunch. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding cayenne pepper.