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garlic cajun chicken shells Recipe

garlic cajun chicken shells Recipe
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4.9 from 29 reviews

This recipe for Garlic Cajun Chicken Shells is a delightful dish that combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of chicken, cheeses, and Cajun spices, all bathed in a creamy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the filling:

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook pasta shells until al dente, then drain and cool.
  2. Make the filling: Sauté onion and red bell pepper in olive oil, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Combine with chicken, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix the cooled chicken mixture with ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan.
  3. Prepare the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk and heavy cream. Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, simmering until thickened.
  4. Assemble and bake: Spread half the sauce in a baking dish, stuff shells with the filling, and arrange them. Pour remaining sauce over the shells, top with remaining cheeses. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. Serve: Let cool briefly before garnishing with parsley and serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/garlic-cajun-chicken-shells-recipe/