If you are looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug, then this Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled among perfectly cooked penne pasta, all bathed in a luscious sauce made with Velveeta and mozzarella cheeses, infused with the inviting aroma of garlic and a hint of Italian seasoning. It’s comfort food at its finest, delivering that rich, creamy texture and depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises an indulgent experience that’s surprisingly easy to create.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the table. From the creamy cheeses that make the sauce irresistibly smooth, to the fresh garlic and Italian seasoning that provide vibrant flavor, every element works in perfect harmony to create a rich and balanced dish.
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce with just the right bite; fusilli or rigatoni can be swapped for fun texture variations.
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, these are the perfect protein base; turkey or firm tofu are great alternatives for different dietary preferences.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Adds depth and richness during cooking; olive oil can be used here for a lighter touch.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Helps prevent the pasta from sticking and adds a subtle fruity note to the dish.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic is the secret to that aromatic punch that elevates the entire sauce.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: The foundation for the creamy sauce; half-and-half or plant-based cream work well for lighter or dairy-free versions.
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (cubed): Brings unmatched velvety creaminess and a smooth melt that defines this recipe.
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Adds gooey stretch and mild flavor; provolone or fontina can be swapped for a slightly different cheese profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens the savory elements and ties everything together beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat that cuts through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped): For a burst of fresh green color and a subtle herbaceous finish.
How to Make Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling your penne in a large pot of salted water until it’s just al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes. This ensures the pasta still has a slight firmness, holding its shape without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil. This simple step keeps the noodles from sticking while adding a gentle fruity flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to maximize flavor. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat—this combo creates a perfect cooking fat that browns the chicken beautifully. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked, locking in the moisture for tender, juicy bites.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Cheese Sauce
Using the same skillet means all those flavorful browned bits stay in the pan! Sauté minced garlic just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—this quick step brings out the garlic’s sweet, aromatic qualities without overwhelming the sauce. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer gently for a minute or two. This sets the stage for the star ingredient: Velveeta cheese.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Add your Velveeta cubes and shredded mozzarella to the cream, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt into a smooth, luxurious sauce. This velvety blend coats the spoon and your taste buds alike, showcasing the dish’s indulgent nature. The combination of Velveeta’s creaminess and mozzarella’s stretchy texture is what makes this recipe truly special.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce
Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet along with your drained penne. Toss everything together for 2 to 3 minutes over low heat, allowing the pasta and chicken to soak in all that creamy garlic cheese goodness. Mixing thoroughly ensures every bite delivers that perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
The last touch is a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, adding a pop of vibrant color and a fresh, slightly peppery note that balances the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe at its absolute best.
How to Serve Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a clean herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. You might also consider a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of savory goodness, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat to wake up the palate.
Side Dishes
This indulgent dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which provides a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also excellent companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover cheesy sauce on your plate. For vegetable sides, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus add a lovely crunch and subtle earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the assembled dish briefly in a casserole dish topped with extra mozzarella until golden and bubbly on top—this turns the recipe into a crowd-pleasing baked pasta. Alternatively, serving it in individual ramekins garnished with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil makes for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it cools, so stirring in a splash of milk or cream when reheating will help restore the creamy consistency.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a little cream or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms. Microwave reheating is fine too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots and ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of penne?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, fusilli, rigatoni, or even farfalle will work beautifully. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personalized touch.
Is Velveeta cheese necessary for this recipe?
Velveeta cheese is what gives this dish that signature smooth, velvety texture, but you can substitute with processed melting cheese or a combination of cream cheese and cheddar for a slightly different yet still creamy result.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try using plant-based cream alternatives and dairy-free cheese substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lower-fat milk, and use olive oil instead of butter. You can also reduce the cheese amount slightly and add more herbs and spices to boost flavor without extra richness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the pasta?
Slow reheating on the stove with a splash of cream or milk is your best bet to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the pasta from drying or clumping together. Stir frequently and avoid high heat for a silky finish.
Final Thoughts
This Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce Recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. With its rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, sharing it with friends and family who will instantly fall in love with its creamy, garlicky goodness.
Print
Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy 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 Indulgent Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and combined with penne pasta in a luscious, cheesy garlic cream sauce made from Velveeta and mozzarella cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe offers a decadent meal that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta (Can swap for fusilli or rigatoni)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Keeps pasta from sticking)
Protein
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts (Substitute with turkey or firm tofu)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Can use olive oil for lighter option)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Use fresh garlic for best flavor)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream)
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (cubed) (Creates a velvety creaminess)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Provolone or fontina can be used)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Fresh herbs can enhance flavor)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Adds freshness and color)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Make Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheeses: Stir in the cubed Velveeta and shredded mozzarella cheese until completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and add them along with the cooked penne into the cheesy sauce. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes to coat well and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving to add freshness and color. Serve immediately and enjoy the indulgent flavor!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey or firm tofu to accommodate dietary preferences.
- For a lighter version, swap butter with olive oil and heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Fresh herbs instead of Italian seasoning can enhance the depth of flavor.
- Use fusilli or rigatoni pasta as alternatives to penne if preferred.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best to hold the rich sauce.
