When it comes to cozy family meals, nothing beats the convenience and comfort of a slow cooker. I often find myself turning to comforting dishes like Slow Cooker Chicken and Shells, which combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, pasta, and a medley of vegetables into one hearty meal. This dish not only warms your kitchen but also tugs at the heartstrings—perfect for weeknights when you want to spend time with family instead of slaving over a hot stove. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that anyone, even novice cooks, can whip it up with ease.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe stands out for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to toss together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Just a handful of ingredients come together to create something genuinely hearty and delicious. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly; using chicken, basic pantry staples, and frozen veggies ensures you won’t break the bank.
But the highlight? Kids absolutely love it! The combination of creamy mushroom sauce and gooey cheese makes it an easy sell for even the pickiest eaters.
"This dish has saved my evenings more times than I can count! It’s creamy, cheesy, and best of all, easy to prepare. My kids gobble it up every time!" – A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Let’s break down how this delightful dish comes together. In just a few easy steps, you’ll go from raw ingredients to a mouthwatering meal. Starting with seasoned chicken and ending with melted cheese, the process is both straightforward and satisfying. Here’s how it all works:
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What you’ll need
Gather these items to make your Slow Cooker Chicken and Shells a success:
- 1 lb raw chicken (thighs or breasts)
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley)
Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on your family’s preferences or what you have at hand!
Directions to follow
- In your slow cooker, add the raw chicken. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs you’d like.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth over the chicken, coating it evenly.
- Add the pasta shells and vegetables on top.
- Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Just before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and let it melt beautifully.
- Serve warm and relish every bite!
What to serve it with
For an even more satisfying meal, consider pairing your Chicken and Shells with some crusty bread or a fresh green salad on the side. You could also add a fruity dessert to finish off your dinner on a sweet note!
Storage and reheating tips
Leftover Chicken and Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat your portions in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months—just make sure to let it cool completely before packaging it up.
Pro chef tips
- For extra flavor, consider searing the chicken in a pan for a few minutes before adding it to the slow cooker. This step boosts the overall taste of the dish.
- Experiment with different cheeses! Adding a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can create a delightful flavor and texture.
- If you enjoy a bit of spice, try adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re seasoning the chicken.
Creative twists
There are endless ways to customize your Slow Cooker Chicken and Shells to match your taste. Here are a few ideas to ignite your creativity:
- Swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken for a different flavor base.
- Change up the vegetables based on your local seasonality or your family’s favorites—bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach would be delicious options.
- For a healthier twist, use whole grain pasta shells or replace half the pasta with cauliflower rice.
Your questions answered
Q: How long does it take to prepare this dish?
A: You can have everything ready to go in just about 15 minutes! After that, your slow cooker does all the work.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but adjust the cooking time; it may need an additional hour to fully cook.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
A: If you prefer not to use cream soups, you can create a homemade version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and sautéed mushrooms.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want some leftovers for the week, this Slow Cooker Chicken and Shells recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and make your life a little easier! Enjoy!
