If you have a hankering for something that is both irresistibly creamy and packed with comforting flavors, you will fall head over heels for this Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs perfectly seared and nestled atop a bed of al dente penne pasta, all drenched in a velvety sauce made from the rich marriage of Velveeta and shredded mozzarella, with just the right hit of garlic and herbs. This dish combines heartiness and decadence in every bite, making it an absolute winner for cozy dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients guarantees a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that bring this dish to life. Each one contributes something special: from the richness of Velveeta, the gooey stretch of mozzarella, the savory punch from garlic and Italian seasoning, to the lusciousness that the heavy cream lends.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 ½ pounds): They stay juicy and tender while absorbing the seasoning beautifully.
- Penne or rigatoni pasta (12 ounces): These tubular shapes hold sauce wonderfully for every forkful.
- Velveeta cheese, cubed (1 cup): The secret to that ultra-creamy, smooth, melt-in-your-mouth sauce texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds a mild, milky richness and perfect stretchiness.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aromatic warmth.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a flavorful base for searing chicken and sautéing garlic.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and silky.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just enough heat and depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that complements the savory components beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and subtle herbal notes to finish.
How to Make Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry to ensure a nice sear. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning so each piece is bursting with flavor. This seasoning mix will infuse the meat with aromatic herbs, making each bite delightful.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat up a skillet over medium-high and melt the butter, which will add that lovely nutty undertone. Sear the chicken thighs until they’re beautifully golden brown on both sides, about 6 to 7 minutes each. This step locks in juices, resulting in tender chicken that melts in your mouth. Once cooked, let the chicken rest to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta Al Dente
While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta in salted water until al dente—cooked but still slightly firm to the bite. This texture is crucial because the pasta will continue to soak up the creamy sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy water is a lifesaver to thin out the sauce if needed.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Lower the skillet heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic, sautéing just until fragrant—about one minute—to release its delicious aroma without burning. Pour in the heavy cream and then add your Velveeta cubes and shredded mozzarella. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully and your sauce reaches a luxuriously smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with the Sauce
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and stir well to coat every piece in that luscious sauce. If it feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you get your perfect creamy texture. This step elevates the sauce, helping it cling beautifully to the pasta for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Slice the Chicken and Serve
Slice your rested chicken into bite-sized strips and arrange them on top of the coated pasta. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish that adds color and a subtle herbal brightness. Serve immediately while everything is bubbling warm and enjoy the comfort this dish brings.
How to Serve Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding both a gorgeous green pop and a touch of freshness. For a little extra crunch and flavor contrast, try toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese on top also amps up the cheesiness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance out the creamy, rich pasta. Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach also bring a nice freshness that complements the decadent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve this Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe in rustic, shallow bowls that show off the cheesy sauce and tender chicken slices beautifully. Alternatively, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs just before serving to add color and a burst of fragrance. For gatherings, consider using individual ramekins for a pretty plated look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken penne in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days and taste just as delicious when reheated carefully.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind cream-based sauces can separate slightly when thawed. To freeze, pack cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and use within 2 months for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of milk or pasta water to bring the sauce back to its creamy glory. Microwaving is fine for quick meals but watch it closely to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work too, but be careful not to overcook them since they can dry out faster than thighs. Consider pounding them thin for even cooking.
Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?
While Velveeta provides unique creaminess and melt, you can try using processed cheese or a blend of cream cheese and cheddar, but the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure thing! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like roasted mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian twist on this creamy pasta dish.
How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?
Reserve pasta water is your best friend here. The starch helps loosen the sauce without watering down the flavor, keeping it silky and smooth.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their tube shapes capture the creamy sauce perfectly. However, other short pastas like fusilli or rotini will work nicely too.
Final Thoughts
This Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe is pure comfort on a plate and perfect for anyone craving a rich, flavorful meal without hours in the kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat, yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own family favorite!
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Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Velveeta Chicken Penne recipe features tender seared chicken thighs served over rigatoni or penne pasta smothered in a creamy mozzarella garlic cheese sauce. The sauce is rich and luscious, made with Velveeta, shredded mozzarella, garlic, and heavy cream, offering a delightful comfort meal perfect for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pasta
- 12 ounces rigatoni or penne pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for about 6 to 7 minutes per side or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni or penne pasta and cook until al dente, typically 10 to 12 minutes depending on the pasta brand. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then add the cubed Velveeta cheese and shredded mozzarella, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely and form a smooth creamy sauce.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece of pasta. Use reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken thighs into strips or bite-sized pieces. Arrange the chicken over the dressed pasta, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm to enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal.
Notes
- Using boneless skinless chicken thighs ensures juicier, more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
- Searing the chicken first locks in moisture and enhances flavor with a golden crust.
- Reserving pasta water helps adjust the thickness of the cheese sauce without diluting flavor.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
