If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible dinner idea, your search ends here! This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is not just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting bowl of goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture this: juicy pan-seared chicken combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all drenched in a silken garlic cheese sauce made from melty Velveeta and stretchy mozzarella. This dish captures the essence of comfort food, offering a rich yet light palette of flavors that brings joy to any dinner table.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its incredible simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of around 40 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal any night of the week. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply cooking a family meal, this creamy chicken spaghetti can be a go-to choice. Moreover, its indulgent flavors can easily rival those of restaurant-style dishes, making every bite a special treat. If you’ve been craving cheesy comfort, this recipe ticks all the boxes for easy dinner recipes, creamy pasta dishes, and cheesy food ideas your family will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti
- Easy to Prepare: Only takes 40 minutes from kitchen to table.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for adults and kids alike, this dish will please every palate.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich combination of Velveeta and mozzarella creates a super creamy texture.
- Versatile: Customize with your choice of protein and vegetables.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Makes for great next-day meals!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into creating this delicious Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop to streamline the cooking process. Having everything laid out will save you from scrambling for items while you’re busy on the stove. You’ll need a large pot for boiling spaghetti, a skillet for searing chicken, and a mixing bowl for tossing everything together.
Tools that will come in handy include a sharp knife for slicing chicken, a cutting board, measuring cups, and spoons. Ensure you have a colander ready for draining pasta and a serving dish to present this mouthwatering meal beautifully. Pre-heating the stove and having all ingredients measured will make the process fluid and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1.5 cups Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices will bathe the chicken in flavor, ensuring every bite delights your palate.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The goal is to lock in the flavors and moisture. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining to adjust the consistency of your sauce later. Once drained, set the spaghetti aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce
Next, pour the milk into the skillet and gradually add the cubed Velveeta. Stir gently over low heat. The cheese should melt smoothly, creating a creamy base. As it thickens, slowly incorporate shredded mozzarella, mixing continuously until fully melted and the texture is velvety.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
For the final step, add black pepper and optional red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Toss the drained spaghetti into the sauce and mix until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it into your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve!
Slice or cube the rested chicken and lay it on top of the creamy spaghetti. Finish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty meal while it’s hot!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for cooked shrimp or diced turkey for a different protein twist.
- Vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or your favorite seasonal veggies for added nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different seasonings like Cajun or Italian herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
- Using low-fat milk can help reduce calories without compromising too much on creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pasta dish with a side salad to add freshness.
- A glass of white wine such as Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
Tips
- For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving
- Protein: 35g per serving
- Sodium: 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and just reheat the whole dish or individual portions when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for Velveeta?
If you prefer, you can use a combination of cream cheese and sharp cheddar for a similar creamy effect.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat spaghetti, lower-fat dairy options, and add vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Conclusion
This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is an exceptional dish that combines delightful flavors and creamy textures, perfect for a cozy night in or a celebratory dinner. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also adaptable for different dietary preferences. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the smiles of those you serve. We invite you to comment below with your personal twists on the recipe or share your experience. Don’t wait too long—get cooking and enjoy this creamy delight tonight!
Print
Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is an exceptional dish that combines delightful flavors and creamy textures, perfect for a cozy night in or a celebratory dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1.5 cups Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices will bathe the chicken in flavor, ensuring every bite delights your palate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The goal is to lock in the flavors and moisture. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining to adjust the consistency of your sauce later. Once drained, set the spaghetti aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Next, pour the milk into the skillet and gradually add the cubed Velveeta. Stir gently over low heat. The cheese should melt smoothly, creating a creamy base. As it thickens, slowly incorporate shredded mozzarella, mixing continuously until fully melted and the texture is velvety.
- For the final step, add black pepper and optional red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Toss the drained spaghetti into the sauce and mix until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it into your desired consistency.
- Slice or cube the rested chicken and lay it on top of the creamy spaghetti. Finish your dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your hearty meal while it’s hot!
Notes
Ensure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor. Using low-fat milk can help reduce calories without compromising too much on creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g