Description
A comforting, creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and a rich cheese sauce. Ready in 30 minutes and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
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250g pasta shells
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2 tbsp neutral or olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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275g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp red chili powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp oregano
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
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130ml milk (½ cup + 1 tbsp)
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110ml double cream (¼ cup + 3 tbsp)
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100g mozzarella cheese (1 cup), plus extra for topping
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100–120ml reserved pasta water (½ cup)
Instructions
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Boil pasta in salted water with oil until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
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Sauté minced garlic in oil until light golden.
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Add chicken and cook until no longer pink.
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Add spices, tomato paste, and sriracha. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
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Pour in milk and cream; bring to a simmer.
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Add cheese and stir until melted.
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Gradually stir in pasta water to adjust sauce thickness.
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Add pasta; mix well. Top with extra cheese.
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Cover and cook on low until cheese melts. Serve hot.
Notes
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For less heat, omit sriracha and reduce chili powder.
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Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a cheese blend.
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Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for a veggie boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American