There’s nothing like a hearty, comforting dinner to bring the family together, and these Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells are just what you need for a weeknight meal. Packed with rich Cajun flavors, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, this dish combines the best of comfort food with a little kick of spice. The stuffed pasta shells are filled with a creamy chicken and broccoli mixture, all baked under a blanket of melty mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for something flavorful to spice up your weeknight dinners, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
The Cajun seasoning adds a subtle heat that perfectly complements the rich cream sauce, while the chicken and broccoli make the dish both satisfying and balanced. With a little bit of preparation and a quick bake, this dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something both delicious and easy. Let’s dive into how to create this creamy, spicy dish that everyone will love!
🧾 Ingredients (Shuffled Order)
For the Pasta & Sauce:
🍝 1 pound large pasta shells (gluten-free if needed)
🧈 2 tablespoons butter
🧄 2 garlic cloves, chopped
🥛 2 cups heavy cream (or milk)
🧀 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
🌶️ ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning
🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Filling:
🍗 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced
🥦 1 cup cooked broccoli, finely chopped
🧅 2 green onions, thinly sliced
🧀 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra for filling)
🍋 1 teaspoon lemon zest
🌶️ ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning (extra for filling)
🧀 1 cup ricotta cheese
👨🍳 Directions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the large pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside on a tray to cool.
2. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cream (or milk), Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cooked chicken, broccoli, green onions, extra Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and the additional Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour the Cajun cream sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish. Carefully stuff each cooled pasta shell with the chicken and broccoli filling. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in the baking dish.
5. Top & Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the stuffed shells. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the shells are bubbling.
🥗 Nutritional Information & Dietary Concerns
This dish offers a comforting mix of protein from the chicken, calcium from the cheeses, and a generous serving of vegetables with the broccoli. The Cajun seasoning provides a bit of heat without overwhelming the palate, making this meal flavorful and satisfying. However, if you’re sensitive to spicy foods or have dietary concerns about dairy, you can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, for those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe can be made using gluten-free pasta shells without sacrificing flavor.
💬 Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If you’ve made these Creamy Cajun Chicken Stuffed Shells, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Your feedback and any creative twists you’ve added to the recipe can help inspire others in the kitchen. Remember, sharing recipes is a wonderful way to connect with others and bring new flavors into their homes. Don’t forget to pass this one along to friends and family who enjoy a bit of spice!