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Garlic Butter Chicken Shell Pasta in Creamy
Isabella

Cajun Garlic Chicken Shell Pasta in Cheesy Cheddar Cream

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • - 1.5 lbs chicken breast cut into thick bites
  • - 12 oz shell pasta
  • - 3 tbsp olive oil
  • - 5 tbsp butter
  • - 6 cloves garlic minced
  • - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • - 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • - 1 tsp garlic powder
  • - Salt and black pepper to taste
  • - 2 cups heavy cream
  • - 6 oz cream cheese
  • - 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese
  • - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
  • - 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • - 1/2 cup provolone cheese
  • - 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • - Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the shell pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining!
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces generously with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until it’s golden brown and has crispy edges, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir in the cream cheese until you have a smooth mixture.
  6. Add the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and provolone cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is glossy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Gently toss the cooked shell pasta into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
  8. Serve the creamy pasta with the seared chicken on the side, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for that burst of color.
  9. Notes & Variations 📝
  10. - For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce!
  11. - If you want to add some veggies, consider throwing in some spinach or broccoli with the pasta for added nutrition.
  12. - Swap out the cheeses based on what you have on hand; feel free to experiment with your favorites!
  13. - Leftovers? This dish is great reheated for lunch the next day.