Lorenzo Devereaux
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is the kind of dish that makes any dinner feel like a warm hug. Picture tender chunks of golden-seared chicken, nestled into perfectly cooked penne pasta, all bathed in a velvety blend of melty Velveeta and mozzarella. Each bite is rich with garlic-infused flavor and a luscious, cheesy finish that makes it hard to stop at just one serving.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent without hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce clings to every pasta tube, and the juicy chicken soaks up all that cheesy goodness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether served for a casual family dinner or dressed up for guests, this pasta delivers big comfort with minimal fuss.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?
While penne is the star here thanks to its sauce-hugging ridges, you could easily swap it for rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle if that’s what you have in the pantry. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce well so you get a perfect bite every time.
Ingredients for Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
- Penne Pasta – The ridges trap the sauce for a more flavorful bite.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Lean protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor.
- Velveeta Cheese – Creates the creamy, smooth base for the sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Adds stretchiness and a mild, buttery finish.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce with savory aroma and depth.
- Butter – Helps sauté the garlic and adds richness.
- Milk or Heavy Cream – Thins the cheese sauce while keeping it luscious.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with fresh flavor and color.
- Salt and Pepper – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
How To Make Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil or butter, and sear chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Base
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Lower heat to medium-low. Add cubed Velveeta cheese to the skillet, along with milk or heavy cream. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. Gradually sprinkle in shredded mozzarella, stirring continuously until it melts into the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, with extra mozzarella sprinkled on top if desired.
Serving and Storing Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking while the sauce is hot, creamy, and at peak flavor. Serve it in warmed bowls to keep the pasta from cooling too quickly. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its silky consistency.
What to Serve With Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
Garlic Bread
A crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.
Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy, green contrast to the creamy dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Their caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with cheesy pasta.
Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brighten the meal.
Antipasto Platter
Cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables make a flavorful starter.
Creamy Tomato Soup
For a cozy combo, pair the pasta with a small bowl of soup.
Lemon Asparagus
Bright and zesty asparagus brings a springtime feel to the table.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this Velveeta Chicken Penne, here are a few other pasta creations you might enjoy:
- Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta for a simple yet indulgent garlic-forward meal.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta with its rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
- Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a hearty, family-style comfort dinner.
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you want a beefy twist on creamy pasta night.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a rich, garlicky alternative.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever you need a quick, cheesy comfort meal.
Tried this dish? Let me know how it turned out! Did you stick with penne or try another pasta shape? Did you add extra veggies or a spice kick?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Share your version in the comments and let’s swap delicious ideas.
Explore even more mouthwatering recipes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and find your next dinner inspiration!
Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large Skillet
- Colander
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
- 8 oz Velveeta, cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
- 1 tsp kosher salt plus more for pasta water
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Season chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high and sear 4–6 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F). Transfer to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in milk and warm. Add Velveeta; stir until melted and smooth. Sprinkle in mozzarella and stir until silky. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add penne and chicken to the sauce; toss to coat. Loosen with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Taste, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.