Shells With Sauce
Creamy shells filled with tender chicken, peas, and Parmesan cheese in a rich sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a frying pan; fry chicken pieces until cooked completely.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and Parmesan cheese over the chicken and stir.
- Stir in frozen peas and combine.
- Add cream of chicken soups and milk, and stir together.
- Simmer for 15 minutes, adding less milk if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Cook shells according to package instructions; place on a plate.
- Top with the chicken and sauce mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding cooked mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. You can substitute the frozen peas with fresh peas or even chopped broccoli. If you're short on time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch. Adjust the garlic powder to your taste, especially if you're a fan of stronger flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shells topped with the chicken and sauce mixture, and consider garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, try serving alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shells With Sauce contains roughly 635 calories, with 28g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture in advance. Store it separately from the cooked shells in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and combine it with the shells. This makes for a quick and easy meal on busy nights.
What type of shells work best for this recipe?
Conchiglie or medium-sized pasta shells are ideal for holding the sauce and chicken mixture. However, you can also use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked al dente to hold up when combined with the sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce mixture for up to two months. Store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Just be aware that the shells should be cooked fresh for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).