If you’re on the lookout for a meal that’s rich in flavor, simple to prepare, and utterly satisfying, then this Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the dish for you. With each bite, experience the creamy delight of Velveeta combined with tender pieces of chicken all nestled among twisted pasta. The added mozzarella garlic sauce not only enhances the flavor but also elevates this to a whole new level of deliciousness. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary embrace, perfect for any night of the week.
Whether your household includes picky eaters or avid culinary adventurers, this recipe emerges as a family favorite. The impressive blend of textures and flavors achieves that sought-after balance of comfort and culinary sophistication. What makes this dish especially appealing is the minimal preparation and cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest of weekdays. The velvety cheese and savory chicken unite in a mouthwatering dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every serving.
Furthermore, the use of easy-to-find ingredients makes this recipe pain-free and accessible. It’s perfect for rediscovering unused pantry items or simply savoring the fulfillment of cooking a delightful dinner from scratch. With the help of Velveeta and mozzarella, the sauce clings beautifully to each pasta twist, ensuring maximum flavor in every mouthful. This recipe doesn’t just promise a pleasurable dining experience; it guarantees you’ll want to make it over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal solution.
- Family-Friendly: Picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy flavor.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: Combines the richness of Velveeta with the melty goodness of mozzarella.
- Easy Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, saving time and effort.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Perfect for customization with your favorite veggies or spices.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparation is the key to cooking any dish to perfection, and this Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is no exception. Begin by creating an organized cooking space. Clear your countertops of unnecessary items and set up your cooking tools within easy reach. You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a dependable skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce, and a sharp knife to swiftly dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
A cutting board is essential for both cleanliness and efficiency. You will also require a measuring cup or spoon for precise ingredient portions, especially when reserving the pasta water to ensure the sauce reaches the perfect consistency. To save additional time, gather all ingredients before you start cooking.
For an added culinary advantage, consider using a non-stick skillet, making it easier to attain that perfect golden brown color on the chicken without it sticking to the pan. Additionally, have a whisk on hand for stirring the cheese sauce, enabling the ingredients to meld seamlessly without any clumps.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook just until al dente, following the time on the package instructions. Drain thoroughly but remember to set aside ½ cup of the hot pasta water, which you’ll need later for the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Dice the chicken breasts into small, manageable pieces. Toss them in a bowl with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated to maximize flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, spread the chicken into an even layer in the pan, cooking until each piece becomes golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 6–8 minutes depending on the size of your chicken pieces. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 4: Craft the Garlic Sauce
Reduce the stove’s heat to medium. Introduce butter into the skillet, allowing it to melt before stirring in the garlic. Let the garlic sauté for roughly one minute or until it releases its rich aroma.
Step 5: Melt the Velveeta
Gently add the cubed Velveeta and your choice of milk or heavy cream into the skillet. Stir steadily, ensuring the cheese melts evenly into a smooth sauce. Should the sauce feel too thick, incorporate splashes of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Bring the cooked pasta into the skillet, gently stirring until every piece is generously coated in the luscious sauce. Distribute shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta. Lower the heat and cover the skillet, waiting a few minutes for the mozzarella to melt to a perfect ooze.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
Optionally, place under a broiler for a few moments for a delightful golden crust. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet or serve it alongside the pasta if preferred. Garnish the dish with fresh or dried parsley and serve piping hot to capture all the melty goodness.
Variations
- Protein: Consider using cooked shrimp or sliced turkey for a different protein perspective.
- Vegetables: Adding broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can enhance nutritional value and color.
- Spices: Spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a heat kick.
Cooking Notes
- When cooking the pasta, ensure it is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy finish after stirring into the sauce.
- If using dried parsley, be mindful of quantities as it has a stronger, condensed flavor compared to fresh.
Serving Suggestions
- This pasta pairs well with a simple Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- For a refreshing accompaniment, serve with a chilled glass of white wine or lemonade.
Tips
- In case of too thick sauce, gradually add a little more pasta water for a creamier consistency.
- If you like a crispy topping, broil the pasta briefly until the mozzarella gains a golden hue.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 45g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 1200mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing ahead can make mealtime a breeze. Simply cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store the sauce in an airtight container and combine when ready to serve.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. For best results, store the pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. Reheat them together when ready to eat.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
To lighten the dish, swap the heavy cream with low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese used.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta is lovely with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or simply on its own as a star dish.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce doesn’t just feed the body, it nurtures the soul. As you dive into this heartwarming dish, take pleasure in the smooth, cheesy coverage of each rotini strand, and the expertly seasoned chicken enveloped in velvety glory. Invite your family and friends to partake, or even try experimenting with variations or add-ins to discover new preferences. Whether you’re indulging in a lazy evening at home or hosting a spirited game night, this recipe is assured to bring smiles and satisfied hearts around your dining table.
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Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Twisted Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for weeknight dinners, bringing together rotini, chicken, Velveeta, and mozzarella in a delicious garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook just until al dente, following the time on the package instructions. Drain thoroughly but remember to set aside ½ cup of the hot pasta water.
- Dice the chicken breasts into small pieces. Toss them in a bowl with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Spread the chicken into an even layer in the pan, cooking until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Introduce butter into the skillet, allowing it to melt before stirring in the garlic. Let the garlic sauté for roughly one minute.
- Add the cubed Velveeta and milk or heavy cream into the skillet. Stir steadily until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce. If too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Distribute shredded mozzarella evenly over the pasta. Lower the heat and cover the skillet, allowing the mozzarella to melt.
- Optionally, place under a broiler for a golden crust. Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet or serve it alongside the pasta. Garnish with parsley and serve piping hot.
Notes
When cooking the pasta, ensure it is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy finish after stirring into the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 700 kcal
- Sodium: Approximately 1200 mg
- Protein: Approximately 45 g