08/14/2025
Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells.
**Ingredients**
**For the Pasta and Filling:**
* 1 (12-ounce) box jumbo pasta shells
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
* 1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
* 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your preferred spice level)
* 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
* Salt and black pepper to taste
**For the Sauce:**
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
* 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
# # # **Preparation Steps**
1. **Cook the Pasta Shells:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be careful not to overcook them. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent them from sticking together.
2. **Cook the Cajun Chicken:** While the shells are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken and season with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the chopped green bell pepper and onion to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Create the Filling:** Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the filling is well-combined and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Make the Sauce:** In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, tomato sauce, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. **Assemble the Casserole:**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Pour about half of the prepared sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
* Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the Cajun chicken filling and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.
* Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
* Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. **Serve:** Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.