Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Shells with Melted Mozzarella. This delightful dish features tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shell pasta, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. With its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to serve in no time. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella provides a cheesy goodness that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- 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 shell pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat; sear seasoned chicken until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream; stir in cream cheese until melted.
- Add Parmesan cheese and mix until thickened; loosen with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Stir in cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella until well combined.
- Return chicken to the skillet or plate separately with pasta.
- Top with remaining mozzarella; let melt slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 155mg