If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances comfort and decadence, the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This indulgent meal brings together tender chicken, velvety Velveeta cheese, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with bold flavors and a creamy texture that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each plays a vital role in creating the rich and inviting profile of this dish. From the hearty penne pasta to the creamy Velveeta cheese, every item has been chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that blend harmoniously.
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta: The perfect base, with a firm bite that holds the sauce well; rigatoni or rotini work nicely too.
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy protein that soaks up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese: The star of creaminess; cheddar or Colby cheeses can be used for a different twist on flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced): Adds a bold, aromatic punch; roasting garlic offers an even sweeter, mellower taste.
- 4 tablespoons Butter: Creates the rich garlic butter sauce that ties everything together.
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a sharp, nutty finish that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings depth and a hint of Mediterranean flair; oregano and basil can be used as substitutes.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal preference to enhance all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection and locking in moisture.
How to Make Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s just al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a half cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce texture later if needed. This step ensures your pasta holds up perfectly amidst the rich sauce without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook each side until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-size pieces. This locking in the juices step is crucial for tender, flavorful meat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant but not browned, about one minute. This will release the garlic’s sweet aromatic flavors without any bitterness. Slowly stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes and allow them to melt, whisking frequently to create a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and stir in the drained penne pasta. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while tossing everything together so that the cheese melts into the luscious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Continue warming on low heat just until everything is heated through and well coated. You want the sauce to cling beautifully to every piece of pasta and chicken.
How to Serve Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts the creamy richness of the dish. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese also enhances every bite with an extra hit of umami.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider serving it with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The freshness and slight crunchiness provide a satisfying balance to this indulgently creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elevated presentation, serve this dish in shallow bowls and drizzle a little extra garlic butter sauce over the top. Adding a side of crusty garlic bread makes it feel like a true Italian feast. You could also bake the dish briefly with a sprinkle of mozzarella to create a golden, bubbly crust for added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors intensify overnight, making for delicious next-day meals, but be sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to stock up some ready-made comfort food. Cool it completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It’s best consumed within 2 months and should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or pasta water to help revive the creamy sauce. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure your leftovers taste just as fresh and luscious as when first cooked.
FAQs
Can I substitute Velveeta cheese with other cheeses?
Absolutely! While Velveeta offers a uniquely smooth and creamy texture, you can swap it with cheddar or Colby cheese for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind the sauce might feel a bit less silky depending on the cheese’s melting characteristics.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free penne pasta varieties available at most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish accessible for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Certainly! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add a richer flavor and stay tender even if slightly overcooked. Just adjust cooking times slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh Parmesan cheese?
Grated pre-packaged Parmesan works in a pinch, but fresh Parmesan will provide a brighter, nuttier flavor that really lifts this creamy pasta dish. If you must substitute, also try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or stir in a little hot sauce to the sauce at the end. This subtle heat adds an exciting layer without overpowering the comforting creaminess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that feels indulgent yet straightforward, the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a total winner. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comforting in all the right ways, perfect for weekday dinners or when you need to spoil yourself a little. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again.
Print
Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts, creamy Velveeta cheese, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this recipe combines penne pasta tossed in a luscious cheesy sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and freshly grated Parmesan for an irresistible blend of flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta (Can substitute with rigatoni or rotini.)
Chicken
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
Cheese & Dairy
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (Can use cheddar or Colby for different flavor.)
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated preferred.)
Seasonings & Sauces
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; roasted garlic is a great alternative.)
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Can replace with dried oregano and basil.)
- Salt & Black Pepper to taste (Adjust according to your taste.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Cut the Velveeta cheese into cubes and add to the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir until the cheese melts smoothly into a creamy sauce. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until combined. Season the sauce with additional salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce and Chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Velveeta garlic butter sauce and the chicken is well distributed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Substitute penne with rigatoni or rotini for different pasta shapes.
- Use cheddar or Colby cheese instead of Velveeta for a sharper cheese flavor.
- Roasted garlic can be used instead of minced fresh garlic for a sweeter, milder garlic taste.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese greatly enhances the taste compared to pre-grated varieties.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce.
