Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce. This comforting dish pairs tender chicken with pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce infused with bold Cajun spices and garlic. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and guarantees satisfaction for everyone at the table. Elevate your weeknight meals with this flavorful dish that combines simplicity with gourmet flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz medium shell pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, coat chicken cubes with olive oil and Cajun seasoning.
- Sauté the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour to form a roux; gradually pour in milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce. Simmer until thickened.
- Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted; add mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg