Tanya Rivers
When comfort food meets cheesy indulgence, you get a plateful of joy like this Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. This dish brings together juicy, seasoned chicken, silky Velveeta cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta all swirled in a garlic-forward mozzarella sauce that hugs every bite.
It’s a weeknight dinner hero and a weekend favorite alike. The golden, crusted chicken on top adds protein and texture to the creamy pasta base, making it satisfying and rich without being overwhelming. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a restaurant-style pasta dinner at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta
This recipe is all about bold, satisfying flavors. The combination of creamy Velveeta and shredded mozzarella creates a cheese sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of bowtie pasta. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses easy-to-find ingredients, so you won’t have to run to specialty stores.
The seasoned chicken adds a savory, slightly smoky touch that pairs perfectly with the garlic in the sauce. It’s ideal for busy nights because it’s done in under 40 minutes, and it makes enough to feed the whole family.
What Kind of Pasta and Chicken Should I Use?
Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is ideal because its unique shape holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly. However, feel free to substitute with penne or rotini if needed.
As for the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts both work well. Thighs provide more flavor and stay juicy during cooking, while breasts are leaner and quicker to cook. Grill, pan-sear, or even air-fry them for a crispy crust that adds great contrast to the creamy pasta.
Ingredients for the Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta
To make this creamy chicken pasta dish a success, you’ll need a few key ingredients that bring both flavor and texture:
- Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The bowtie shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly, making each bite rich and satisfying.
- Velveeta Cheese: Melts effortlessly into a creamy, silky sauce that coats the pasta.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Adds stretch and an extra layer of cheesiness to the garlic sauce.
- Garlic (Minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and enhances the savory profile.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a rich base for the cheese sauce.
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Well-seasoned and seared to perfection for that crispy, golden crust.
- Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken while adding flavor.
- Parsley (Fresh or Dried): Adds color and a touch of freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning to bring out the best in every ingredient.
- Paprika and Italian Seasoning: To season the chicken for a deeper, spiced flavor.
How To Make the Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice or cube as desired.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Velveeta cheese and let it melt completely. Add the shredded mozzarella and mix until the sauce is smooth and stretchy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Plate and Top with Chicken
Serve the creamy pasta onto plates and top with the seared chicken. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish and extra flavor.
Serving and Storing This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Pasta
This hearty pasta recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Serve it immediately while hot so the sauce remains velvety and smooth.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
What to Serve With Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Garlic Bread
The ultimate pairing – crisp, buttery garlic bread to mop up every bit of cheesy sauce.
Steamed Broccoli
Add a touch of green and freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
Caesar Salad
Crunchy romaine with tangy Caesar dressing and croutons brings a zesty contrast.
Roasted Vegetables
Try oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots for a colorful side.
Fresh Tomato Salad
Juicy tomatoes with basil and balsamic glaze cut through the creaminess beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly charred asparagus adds an earthy depth that complements the pasta.
Sparkling Water or Lemonade
A fizzy or citrusy drink helps cleanse the palate between creamy bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or shells work well too. Just make sure to cook until al dente so they hold up to the creamy sauce.
2. Is Velveeta the only cheese I can use?
Velveeta provides the ultra-creamy texture, but you can mix in sharp cheddar or Colby Jack for a twist. For a more natural cheese approach, just increase the mozzarella and add a little cream cheese.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then reheat gently and add cooked pasta just before serving to maintain freshness.
4. Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all. It’s flavorful from the seasoning, but not spicy. If you want heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
5. How do I make this dish lighter?
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk (though the sauce will be thinner). Use low-fat cheese and chicken breast for a leaner option.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different pasta shape? Did you add veggies or keep it classic?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 227 g bowtie pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 500 g boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and slice.
- Lower heat. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, then add Velveeta cubes. Stir until melted.
- Mix in mozzarella until sauce is smooth and stretchy.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat.
- Plate pasta, top with chicken, and garnish with parsley.