If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort food vibes with a luscious, cheesy twist, the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe is your dream come true. Imagine perfectly cooked rotini pasta tangled in a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from gooey Velveeta and stretchy mozzarella, infused with fragrant garlic and herbs, all crowned with tender, seasoned chicken. This recipe is a wonderful balance of creamy indulgence and hearty satisfaction that quickly turns any meal into a celebration of flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in giving the dish its amazing taste, texture, and comforting color. From the smooth cheese blend to the fresh herbs, every component works in harmony.
- 12 oz rotini pasta: Twisty shape perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced: Adds protein and savory goodness with a tender bite.
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed: The secret to that ultra-smooth, melt-in-your-mouth cheese sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings gooey stretchiness and milky richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk: Creates the luxurious base for the cheese sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder): Infuses a fragrant depth that brightens the sauce.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds silkiness and helps sauté the garlic and chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A medley of herbs that lift the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and rich color.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (optional): Fresh herbs for a burst of color and a refreshing finish.
How to Make Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta
Start by boiling the rotini pasta in salted water until it’s perfectly al dente—firm but tender. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape and texture when combined with the rich cheese sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta but save about half a cup of the starchy cooking water. This will come in handy to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Step 2: Sauté the Seasoned Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning for a well-rounded flavor. Cook the chicken in the hot butter until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, locking in juices and developing a beautiful crust. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside for the next step.
Step 3: Create the Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, let the garlic sauté just until it becomes wonderfully fragrant—this is the scent that makes your kitchen feel like home. Pour in the heavy cream or whole milk to build a silky base. Add the Velveeta cheese cubes, stirring gently until they melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Then sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella, stirring until it’s fully incorporated and irresistibly stretchy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
It’s time for the grand mix! Add the cooked rotini pasta along with the golden chicken back into the pan. Stir everything together until every twist of pasta is lovingly coated in the smooth mozzarella garlic cheese sauce. If the sauce feels a little too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the texture is just right.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off this hearty masterpiece with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil. These herbs add a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness perfectly. Serve the dish hot, dig in, and savor every mouthwatering bite.
How to Serve Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten up the plate visually and add a subtle herbal lift to the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a playful heat, or some toasted breadcrumbs bring a satisfying crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
This luscious pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread make perfect companions, soaking up any leftover cheese sauce and rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, plate this pasta inside hollowed-out mini bell peppers or serve it in individual ramekins topped with extra mozzarella and broiled briefly for a bubbly golden crust. Not only does it impress visually, but it also turns a cozy meal into a delightful experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after chilling, making each reheated portion taste deliciously comforting.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a longer period, this pasta freezes well. Portion it into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just note that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after thawing, but the cheesy goodness will remain intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent the cheese from separating and keep it silky smooth and delectable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because its twists catch the sauce beautifully, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even shells to suit your preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian alternative without sacrificing flavor.
What can I substitute for Velveeta if I don’t have it?
You can use processed cheese or a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for a similar creamy texture, but Velveeta gives that unmistakably smooth and rich melt that’s hard to replicate exactly.
Can I prepare this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut or almond milk, but the sauce texture will change. Experimenting with cashew cream can also help achieve a creamy consistency.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
This recipe is mild by default, focused on cheesy and garlicky flavors. You can easily add heat by incorporating chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of pasta bathed in a creamy garlic-infused cheese sauce, especially when paired with tender, seasoned chicken. The Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet indulgent enough to feel like a treat. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to comfort meal that warms your heart and delights your palate every time.
Print
Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta features tender chicken breast cooked to golden perfection and combined with rotini pasta in a luscious mozzarella garlic cheese sauce. The velvety blend of Velveeta and shredded mozzarella melted into a creamy base of heavy cream and garlic creates a rich and savory dish perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 2 tbsp butter
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken in the skillet until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream or whole milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Velveeta cheese cubes, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Then stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until combined and stretchy.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked rotini and chicken back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the top for freshness. Serve the creamy Velveeta chicken rotini pasta hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breast for a juicier texture.
- Use whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works well too.
- Reserved pasta water helps thin the sauce without losing flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables.
