Description
Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty Cajun flair, enveloped in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. This creamy pasta recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering both comfort and flavor in every bite. With a quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet easy to make. The bold spices paired with the smooth cheese sauce create a harmonious blend that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Serve it alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz medium shell pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook shell pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sauté seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic.
- Whisk in flour to make a roux; gradually add milk until thickened.
- Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted; then add mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce; season to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg