Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce
Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors and comfort, perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. This dish features tender chicken seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, enveloped in a creamy and rich Velveeta cheese sauce, all nestled within perfectly cooked pasta shells. With its quick preparation time and satisfying taste, it promises to become a favorite at your dining table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 oz medium shell pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 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, coat chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sauté the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add flour to create a roux, then pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted; add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold in the cooked chicken and pasta until well-coated with the sauce. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 85mg