When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta. This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a family-friendly dinner that combines tender chicken, rotini pasta, and a luxurious blend of Velveeta and mozzarella in a rich garlic cream sauce. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet indulgent enough to impress guests. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare the dish step by step, plus variations, serving tips, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season chicken strips with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk. Add the cubed Velveeta and stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Incorporate Cheeses
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted into a thick, silky sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Mix in jalapeños or cayenne pepper to elevate the heat.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before combining with fresh pasta.
- Cheese Substitutions: If you don’t have Velveeta, use sharp cheddar or Colby cheese for a similar creamy consistency.
Pairing Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with warm garlic bread or a side of grilled asparagus. A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well because they hold the creamy sauce.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly for a lighter dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the ultimate comfort food: rich, cheesy, and full of garlic flavor. It’s a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a dish the whole family will request again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this pasta recipe delivers both flavor and satisfaction.