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Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce

Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce
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Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells in Velveeta Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, creamy flavors with zesty Cajun spices. This dish features tender chicken and shell pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. With its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is both satisfying and convenient, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will enjoy every bite. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells promises to impress with its delightful taste and creamy texture.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 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

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken cubes in a bowl with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well coated.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in flour while whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a light roux. Slowly pour in whole milk while whisking to keep the sauce smooth. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Lower heat to low. Stir in Velveeta cheese and cream cheese. Continue stirring until both are melted completely into a creamy sauce.
  7. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until thickened and fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Add cooked chicken and shell pasta back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until fully coated in that cheesy garlic Cajun sauce.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or fresh chives if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://simplecookguide.com/garlic-cajun-chicken-shells-in-velveeta-cream-sauce/

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