Kid-Approved Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Shells!

  Looking for a meal that's both delicious and sneaks in some veggies? These Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Pasta Shells are a guaranteed hit with the little ones (and the big ones too!). They're easy to make, customizable, and oh-so-cheesy!

 

Yields: 4-6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

 

Ingredients:

 

1 pound small pasta shells

 

1 tablespoon olive oil

 

1 cup cooked chicken, diced

 

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn are great!), thawed

 

2 cups milk

 

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

 

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your kid's favorite!)

 

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Optional: Sprinkle of dried parsley for garnish

 

Instructions:

 

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

 

Sauté Chicken and Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced cooked chicken and thawed mixed vegetables. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

 

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken.

 

Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta shells and the chicken and veggie mixture to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.

 

Serve and Enjoy! Serve the cheesy pasta shells warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley, if desired.

 

Tips and Variations:

 

Sneak in more veggies: Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like broccoli or zucchini along with the mixed veggies.

 

Different protein: You can easily swap out the chicken for cooked ground turkey or ham.

 

Make it cheesy-er! Add a little more cheese for an extra gooey dish.

 

Get the kids involved: Let them help stir the pasta or sprinkle on the cheese!

 

This Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Pasta is a winner for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. We hope your kids love it as much as ours do! Happy cooking!