Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella
Indulge in the creamy comfort of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, and shell pasta, creating a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is not only quick but also rich in flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz medium shell pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the shell pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken chunks seasoned with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear until golden-brown.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in cooked pasta until coated and mix in half of the mozzarella until melted.
- Serve hot with remaining mozzarella on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 150mg