Bold, creamy, and fiery—Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta Shells bring irresistible Southern heat and comfort to every forkful of cheesy indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bold Cajun flavor and creamy texture
- Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
- Customizable with add-ins like spinach or tomatoes
- Family-friendly with an option to adjust spice levels
- Great as leftovers with easy reheating options
- Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients
- Protein-rich thanks to the chicken
- Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for everyday
- One-pan sauce for minimal cleanup
- Comfort food that feels both indulgent and nourishing
Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season diced chicken with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
- Add garlic and butter to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add diced tomatoes and spinach, if using, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: 460 kcal
Variations
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat, or reduce Cajun seasoning for a milder version.
- Veggie Boost: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make it celiac-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
What Can I Use Instead Of Cajun Seasoning?
You can use Creole seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Is This Recipe Spicy?
It has a moderate kick. Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning if you prefer less heat.
Can I Freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta Shells?
While you can freeze it, the cream sauce may separate. Reheat slowly and stir well to recombine.
What’s The Best Pasta Shape For This Recipe?
Shells are great because they catch the sauce, but penne or rotini also work well.
Can I Use Milk Instead Of Heavy Cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk with a bit of cornstarch can help thicken it.
How Do I Make This Vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I Add Cheese On Top?
Absolutely. Mozzarella or extra Parmesan on top before serving adds richness.
What Side Dishes Go Well With This?
Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables pair nicely.
How Do I Store Leftovers Safely?
Cool completely, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta Shells are a flavorful, satisfying dish that comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this creamy, zesty pasta will hit the spot. With easy customization and make-ahead options, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.
Discover More Cajun-Inspired Favorites
Expand your flavor experience with these hand-picked recipes that pair perfectly with Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta Shells:
- Explore the heat and creaminess of Spicy Cajun Alfredo Pasta with Garlic Butter Steak Bites, a savory main course packed with bold flavor.
- Serve your pasta with Rustic Roasted Garlic Bread, a simple yet delicious side that complements rich sauces beautifully.
- Enjoy a fresh twist with Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza Wrap, combining classic Caesar flavor with handheld convenience.
- Add Southern comfort to your table with Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya with Ground Beef and Sausage, a robust dish full of spice and soul.
- Finish with the indulgent blend of savory and sweet in Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta Shells
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and spicy pasta dish made with tender chicken, shell pasta, and a luscious Cajun-seasoned cream sauce that brings bold Southern flavor to every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season diced chicken with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.
- Add garlic and butter to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add diced tomatoes and spinach, if using, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the spice level.
- Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
- Can substitute shrimp or sausage for chicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg