Description
Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with zesty Cajun flavors, perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make pasta meal is ready in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Tender chicken coated in Cajun spices joins forces with a rich, cheesy sauce made from Velveeta and cream cheese, enveloping shell pasta for a comforting experience that everyone will love. Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs, and enjoy the burst of flavors that will keep your loved ones coming back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 12 oz medium shell pasta
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 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 the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until coated.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; then gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
- Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully combined; season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like parsley or chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 105mg