The joy of a quick yet satisfying meal! If you’ve ever browsed the aisles of your local grocery store, chances are you’ve stumbled upon Knorr Pasta Sides – a go-to solution for busy days and empty stomachs. Among the delightful flavors, one stands out with its creamy, garlicky goodness: Creamy Garlic Shells. As a seasoned cook, I’ve found this flavor to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for those craving a comforting yet effortless dinner. Let me share with you my experience in crafting this irresistible dish.
Ingredients
- Knorr Pasta Sides Creamy Garlic Shells mix
- Chicken breast or tenderloins
- Olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Knorr Pasta Sides Creamy Garlic Shells mix: This forms the flavorful base of our dish, offering a creamy garlic sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
Chicken breast or tenderloins: Choose boneless, skinless chicken for easy preparation. Chicken adds protein and a savory flavor to the dish.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and adding richness to the overall flavor profile.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic provides a fragrant aroma and robust taste, elevating garlic flavor.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish, enhancing its visual appeal and flavor.
Salt and pepper: These common seasonings are essential for enhancing the taste of the chicken and pasta.
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese: For those who desire an extra layer of cheesy goodness, Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled over the finished dish for added flavor and richness.
Preparation
Instructions for preparing the chicken: Season your chicken breast or tenderloins with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. This ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender, adding a delicious protein element to our dish.
Preparation of the Creamy Garlic Shells mix: Bring water to a boil in a separate pot. Once boiling, add the Knorr Pasta Sides Creamy Garlic Shells mix to the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Allow the pasta to cook according to the package instructions until it is tender and the sauce has thickened. This step ensures that our pasta is perfectly cooked and coated in a creamy garlic sauce, ready to be combined with the cooked chicken.
Cooking
Combining cooked chicken with prepared pasta: Once the chicken is cooked to golden brown, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the prepared Creamy Garlic Shells pasta mix. Then, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mixing it with the pasta. This allows the chicken and pasta flavors to meld together, creating a cohesive dish.
Simmering until pasta is tender and sauce thickens: Reduce the heat to low and let the pasta and chicken simmer together in the skillet. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Allow the pasta to simmer until it reaches the desired tenderness and the sauce thickens to your liking. This step ensures that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce, resulting in a creamy and satisfying dish.
Adding optional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor: For those who enjoy an extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cooked pasta and chicken mixture. The heat from the skillet will melt the cheese, infusing the dish with its rich and savory taste. Stir the cheese into the pasta until it is well incorporated. This step adds a delicious finishing touch to our Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
Presentation
Serving the Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken in a dish or bowl: Transfer the cooked Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken from the skillet to a serving dish or individual bowls. This step makes the dish look more appetizing and allows for easier serving and portioning. Choose a dish or bowl that complements the colors and textures of the dish, enhancing its visual appeal.
Garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color: To add a finishing touch to our dish, garnish it with freshly chopped parsley. Sprinkle the parsley over the Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken just before serving. Not only does parsley add a vibrant pop of green color to the dish, but it also provides a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken.
Tips
Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition: To boost the nutritional value of your dish, consider incorporating vegetables such as broccoli or spinach. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet, chicken, and pasta. This adds color and texture and provides additional vitamins and minerals to your meal.
Incorporating different protein options such as shrimp or tofu for variety: For those looking to switch things up, experiment with different protein options besides chicken. Try adding shrimp for a seafood twist or tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose to ensure it is cooked through and complements the creamy garlic flavor of the dish.
Adjusting seasoning according to taste preference: Taste preferences vary, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning of your Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken to suit your taste. Feel free to add salt, pepper, or garlic powder if you prefer a stronger flavor profile. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices to customize the dish. Start with a little and taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
Storage and Reheating
Guidance on storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator: To keep them fresh, transfer them to an airtight container once they have cooled down to room temperature. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in, which can cause the food to spoil more quickly. For optimal taste and quality, refrigerate the leftovers and enjoy them within 2-3 days.
Instructions for reheating in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent drying out: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, there are a couple of ways to reheat them. For a quick and easy option, use the microwave. Place the leftover Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or paper towel to prevent splattering. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat the leftovers on the stove. Please place them in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, then serve and enjoy!
Additional Ideas
Using leftovers as filling for wraps or sandwiches: Transform your leftover Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken into a tasty wrap or sandwich filling. Spread some mayonnaise or hummus on a tortilla or bread. Add a generous scoop of the leftover pasta, chicken mixture, and your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Roll it up or sandwich it between slices of bread for a quick and satisfying meal.
Incorporating the pasta mix into casseroles or baked dishes: Get creative in the kitchen by incorporating the Creamy Garlic Shells mix into casseroles or baked dishes. Prepare the pasta mix according to the package instructions, then mix it with cooked vegetables, a protein of your choice, and a creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly. This versatile pasta mix adds a delicious garlic flavor to any casserole or baked dish, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken serving typically contain around 300-350 calories. The outcome may vary based on factors like serving size and any extra ingredients added.
Protein: Each serving of Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken provides moderate protein, usually ranging from 15-20 grams per serving. Protein is crucial in building and repairing body tissues, highlighting its significance as a vital nutrient for a balanced diet.
Fat: The fat content in Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken is generally around 10-15 grams per serving. This includes healthy fats from sources such as olive oil and any naturally occurring fats in the chicken.
Carbohydrates: Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken contain carbohydrates primarily from pasta and any added vegetables. A typical serving may provide around 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body’s main energy source, so it’s important to include them in your diet in moderation.
FAQ
You can use any pasta variety, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Exclude the chicken and opt for vegetable broth to craft a delectable vegetarian rendition.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, maintaining its freshness for up to 2-3 days.
Absolutely; feel free to use any cheese or skip it entirely for a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Whipping up a delightful meal like Knorr Pasta Sides Recipe: Creamy Garlic Shells with Chicken is easy and incredibly satisfying. The combination of creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and flawlessly cooked pasta creates a delectable dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Please give this Knorr Pasta recipe a try and experience its deliciousness for yourself. Don’t forget to share your feedback with us – we’d love to hear about your cooking adventures and how you enjoyed this flavorful dish.
And if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, why not explore other flavors and recipes in the Knorr Pasta Sides product line? From savory Alfredo to zesty Cajun flavors, a world of possibilities is waiting to be discovered in every packet. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
