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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella

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Indulge in Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella! A delightful dish perfect for any occasion—try it today!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 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
  • 12 oz medium shell pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • Reserved pasta water (optional, to loosen sauce)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the shell pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package directions. Drain, reserving some of the pasta water, and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add thick-cut chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear until golden-brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until sauce is thick, glossy, and creamy. If too thick, loosen it using reserved pasta water.
  4. Stir in the cooked shell pasta until each shell is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
  5. Mix half of the mozzarella cheese into the pasta until it melts through. Return cooked chicken to skillet or plate pasta separately with chicken on the side.
  6. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top of pasta; let it melt slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

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