Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Shells are a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and a velvety cream sauce enveloping large pasta shells. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering a delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- 2. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet, let rest briefly, then slice.
- 3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- 4. Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in spinach until wilted, then mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- 5. Combine Everything: Return sliced chicken to the skillet along with cooked pasta shells. Toss gently to coat.
- 6. Serve: Plate portions and garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 280g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: - For added spice, consider mixing in extra Cajun seasoning or chopped jalapeños into the filling. - Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of cream or broth.