Lightened Up Creamy Chicken and Shells (1 Hour)

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Delight in a healthier twist on a comforting classic with this lightened-up creamy chicken and shells casserole.

This dish combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce enhanced by the smooth texture and added protein of blended cottage cheese.

Topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer, this casserole offers a satisfying crunch with every bite, making it a perfect meal for those seeking a balance between indulgence and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the casserole:

  • 2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
  • 2 cups cooked and cubed chicken breast (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 cup chopped carrots (optional)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the creamy sauce:

  • 1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For topping:

  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta (15 minutes):
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables (5 minutes):
    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and carrots (if using) until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Mix in the peas (if using) and cooked chicken, then remove from heat.
  3. Blend the Creamy Sauce (5 minutes):
    In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and mix with chicken broth, grated Parmesan, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine Ingredients (5 minutes):
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken-vegetable mixture, and creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
  5. Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes):
    Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
  6. Bake (25 minutes):
    Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
  7. Serve and Enjoy:
    Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.

Notes

This lightened-up casserole offers a delightful way to enjoy a creamy, comforting meal without the guilt.

The cottage cheese adds a protein boost and reduces the fat content without compromising on creaminess or flavor.

The crunchy breadcrumb topping provides a nice textural contrast, making this casserole a balanced and satisfying dish.

Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, creating a versatile meal that’s sure to please any palate!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Pair this with...

Simple Steamed Broccoli

Begin with fresh broccoli, breaking it into even-sized florets to ensure uniform steaming. Rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities and to refresh their natural green hue. In a pot with a steamer insert, bring a small amount of water to a boil, ensuring the water level remains below the steamer. Place the broccoli florets into the steamer, covering the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Within a few minutes, the broccoli will transform into a brighter shade of green, signaling its readiness. Once tender but still slightly crisp, transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. A sprinkle of sea salt, a light drizzle of olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance its earthy taste.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.

Garlic Bread

Grab a loaf of your favorite bread—baguette or ciabatta are classics. Slice it up, but not all the way through, so it fans out nicely. In a bowl, melt some butter and stir in minced garlic (as much or as little as you like), a sprinkle of salt, and maybe a touch of dried parsley for that extra flair. Generously brush or spread this garlicky goodness between the slices. Wrap the loaf in foil and pop it into a pre-heated oven. When it's golden and aromatic, pull it out and enjoy the buttery, crispy, garlicky delight.

For Tomorrow's Dinner

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