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.

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

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/lightened-up-creamy-chicken-and-shells-1-hour/