Description
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella is a comforting and indulgent dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your family or guests. This recipe features succulent chunks of chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with fresh cheeses and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures creates a satisfying comfort food experience that everyone will love. Serve it as a main course, or pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
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
- 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 according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add chicken chunks seasoned with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add Parmesan cheese until thick and creamy; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce until fully coated. Stir in half of the mozzarella until melted.
- Return chicken to skillet or plate pasta first, topping it with chicken. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top to melt slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous portion (about 350g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 144mg