Name: Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into cubes; 10 ounces rotini pasta; 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup milk or heavy cream; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; ½ teaspoon dried basil or Italian herbs (for garnish)

Craving the ultimate cheesy comfort food? Look no further than this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce. This delightful dish combines tender, spiced chicken cubes with al dente rotini pasta in a luxurious cheese sauce that is as rich and satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Imagine melting Velveeta cheese alongside ooey-gooey mozzarella, enveloping every pasta piece in creamy goodness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal solution, yet indulgent enough to impress any guests at your dinner table.

Not only does this recipe offer flavor beyond imagination, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a family, friends, or just for yourself, this pasta dish ticks all the boxes for comfort food enthusiasts. And let’s not forget the ease of preparation – with a total time of just 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a hearty, homemade meal in no time. Cheesy pasta lovers, rejoice! This recipe will become a staple in your kitchen, offering a quick and delicious option that satisfies cravings and warms hearts.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta

Incredible Flavor: The combination of cheesy flavors and tender chicken is nothing short of amazing.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Hearty, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.
Versatile: Modify this dish with various proteins or vegetables to customize it to your liking.
Kid-Friendly: If you have picky eaters, this cheesy pasta is bound to be a hit.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, preparing your kitchen is essential to ensure a seamless cooking experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients and utensils. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce, and measuring spoons and cups for accuracy.

Make sure to also have a cutting board and a sharp knife ready for cubing the chicken. A spatula will be helpful for mixing and scraping the cheese sauce. Don’t forget to line up your cheese and spices in a clutter-free area, so you can move through the cooking process without interruptions. This organized setup will not only make cooking more efficient but also more enjoyable.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into cubes
10 ounces rotini pasta
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon dried basil or Italian herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry and then seasoning it with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor, ensuring every bite is tasty. Make sure that the spices are evenly distributed over the chicken cubes for the best results.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add either butter or oil. Once the skillet is hot, introduce the seasoned chicken cubes, allowing them to sear for about 6–8 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step locks in flavors and juices within the chicken, providing a wonderful depth to the overall dish. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes. When finished, drain the pasta but remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. This water is useful in adjusting the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 4: Create the Garlic Sauce

Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt a couple of tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step elevates the flavor profile, making the garlic aromatic without any bitterness.

Step 5: Melt the Cheeses

Lower the heat and pour in the milk or heavy cream into the skillet with garlic. Next, add the cubed Velveeta cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely and achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. This rich sauce is the heart of your dish, so take your time to make it perfect. If it’s too thick, gradually mix in some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

With the cheese sauce ready, gently toss the drained rotini pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated with the creamy sauce. This step is vital as it ensures that the pasta will carry the flavors of the sauce in every bite.

Step 7: Add the Chicken

Return the seared chicken cubes to the skillet, allowing them to mingle with the pasta and sauce. A gentle stir will help incorporate everything perfectly. Alternatively, serve the chicken atop the pasta for a nice presentation. Finally, sprinkle dried basil or Italian herbs for a touch of color and added flavor before serving.

Variations

Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Toss in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for an added veggie punch.
Spices: Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a flavor boost.

Cooking Notes

For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of milk.
If you desire extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for an hour before cooking.
For a crispy topping, bake the pasta with breadcrumbs and cheese on top for the last 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh side salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Serve with garlic bread to scoop up all that delicious cheese.

Tips

Be sure to keep the heat low when melting your cheese to prevent it from separating.
If you’re in a hurry, pre-cooked rotini or leftover chicken can be utilized for quicker prep.
Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 620 per serving
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just ensure they melt well.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or toss in some diced jalapeños when cooking the chicken.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can pre-cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, this pasta dish can be stored in the freezer in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rotini Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that warms the soul and pleases the palate. With its irresistible cheesiness and flavors, you’re sure to fall in love with every bite. Easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe should definitely find its way into your weekly meal rotation. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, variations, and any unique twists you’ve tried in the comments below. Happy cooking!