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
Scale
- 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