If you’re in search of a dinner recipe that’s quick, comforting, and utterly delicious, look no further than Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce. This dish is a harmonious blend of flavors that effortlessly satisfies hunger cravings and pleases even the pickiest eaters. Imagine the rich textures of tender chicken and robust pasta, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s both indulgent and simple to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when you want to surprise your family with something special, this recipe has quickly become a staple for many home cooks.
The true charm of Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni lies in its amazing combination of ingredients. The creamy Velveeta cheese pairs perfectly with the sharpness of mozzarella and the bold hint of garlic, creating a mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta. Add in some well-seasoned chicken, and you’ve got a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and just downright delicious. Plus, with minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a delightful meal ready in about 35 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of cheesy goodness and tender chicken makes each bite incredibly comforting.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be ready in under 35 minutes, perfect for those hectic weekday nights.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cheesy meal, making it a hit for family dinners.
- Versatile Dish: Customize with additional vegetables or protein to suit your family’s preferences.
- Leftover Friendly: Makes great leftovers if you have any, perfect for lunch the next day!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace effectively. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above to ensure a smooth cooking process. You will need a large pot for boiling the rigatoni and a large skillet to prepare the chicken and sauce. A cutting board and knife are also necessary for chopping the chicken and mincing garlic.
To make your cooking experience even easier, consider using measuring cups and spoons for accuracy. An apron can help keep your clothes clean from any splashes of the creamy sauce. Finally, have some utensils like a spatula or wooden spoon handy for stirring the sauce. Proper preparation of your workspace not only enhances efficiency but also makes the cooking experience more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until it’s just al dente — typically around 8-10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Once drained, set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sauté the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and lightly golden. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Following this, pour in the heavy cream and the milk, stirring well to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes; this will form the base of your lovely creamy sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Bring the cubed Velveeta cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously until it melts and combines into a smooth texture. Next, add in the shredded mozzarella cheese and, if using, the grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until your sauce is creamy and perfectly combined. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly mix in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Everything
It’s time to bring everything together! Gently return the cooked chicken and the rigatoni to the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until each piece of pasta and chicken is well-coated in that luscious sauce. Allow this to cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary — a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make a difference! Once you’re satisfied, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!
Variations
- Protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, or even turkey for a different protein twist. Tofu is a great option for a vegetarian alternative.
- Vegetables: Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate spicy options like red pepper flakes or switch Italian seasoning with fresh herbs for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- If you want an even richer sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and re-heated, just remember to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess when reheating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this creamy rigatoni dish with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
- Breadsticks or garlic bread are perfect accompaniments to enjoy every bit of the sauce!
Tips
- For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to up the amounts of Velveeta or mozzarella according to your preference.
- Pre-chopped and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save even more time in the cooking process.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it’s a secret weapon for creating the right sauce texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 calories per serving
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works beautifully to hold the sauce, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne or fusilli.
Is the dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni, but it may slightly alter the texture of the sauce. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Can I make this dish without chicken?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken entirely or substitute it with a plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that the whole family will love. With its easy preparation and delightful combination of cheesy flavors, this dish can quickly become a weekly favorite. Try it out for yourself and witness the smiles it brings to your dinner table. We’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to share your experiences, tips, or variations in the comments below!
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Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a comforting hug in a bowl that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until it’s just al dente — typically around 8-10 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Once drained, set the pasta aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Sauté the chicken in the skillet for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and lightly golden. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Following this, pour in the heavy cream and the milk, stirring well to combine everything. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes; this will form the base of your lovely creamy sauce.
- Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Bring the cubed Velveeta cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously until it melts and combines into a smooth texture. Next, add in the shredded mozzarella cheese and, if using, the grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until your sauce is creamy and perfectly combined. If the sauce seems too thick, slowly mix in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- It’s time to bring everything together! Gently return the cooked chicken and the rigatoni to the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until each piece of pasta and chicken is well-coated in that luscious sauce. Allow this to cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
- Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as necessary — a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make a difference! Once you’re satisfied, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!
Notes
Ensure the chicken is cooked through to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. This dish can be made ahead of time and re-heated, just remember to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g