Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

Save this recipe on:

Get ready to dive into a rich and hearty dinner that combines the gooey comfort of Velveeta cheese, the creamy depth of mozzarella, and the savory magic of garlic with juicy grilled chicken. Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is a weeknight hero and weekend indulgence all rolled into one irresistible dish.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something cozy and soul-satisfying, this pasta delivers bold flavor and smooth, melty texture in every bite. The seasoned grilled chicken brings a charred, slightly smoky punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy penne underneath.

---

Why You’ll Love This Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

This dish checks all the boxes: easy to make, comforting, filling, and totally crave-worthy. The combination of tender grilled chicken and ultra-creamy cheese sauce is unbeatable for pasta lovers. It’s a one-plate wonder that’s great for busy weeknights, and even better when shared with guests. Plus, it reheats beautifully for leftovers that feel like a treat.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best results, boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts work great. Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and absorb seasoning well, especially when grilled or pan-seared. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts are a fine choice—just be sure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

---

Ingredients for the Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

This dish uses simple, flavorful ingredients that come together into something magical. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Penne Pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds the creamy sauce perfectly in its ridges and tubes.
• Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Juicy and well-seasoned, the chicken adds protein and savory depth.
• Velveeta Cheese – Melts down into a silky, ultra-creamy sauce that clings to every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a stretchy, cheesy richness and helps balance Velveeta’s sharpness.
• Heavy Cream – For extra creaminess and that luscious sauce texture.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Butter – Helps cook the garlic and adds a rich base to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens up the dish with color and a hint of freshness.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.
• Olive Oil – Used for cooking the chicken and ensuring it gets a nice sear.

---

How To Make the Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

Let’s break it down into simple, delicious steps:

Step 1: Season & Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Pan-sear or grill until golden and fully cooked through. Set aside and let it rest before slicing or leaving in chunks.

Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheeses

Pour in the heavy cream, then slowly stir in the Velveeta and mozzarella. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt into a thick, creamy sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 5: Toss and Combine

Add the drained pasta into the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Fold in the parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Top with Chicken

Place the cooked chicken on top of the cheesy pasta and serve hot, optionally garnishing with extra parsley or grated mozzarella.

---

How to Serve and Store Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

This cheesy pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also flexible enough to pair with sides if you’re hosting or want to stretch it further. This recipe comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

---

What to Serve With Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce?

Garlic Bread

The perfect crispy, buttery companion to soak up every drop of cheese sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crispness of romaine and the tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the richness of the pasta.

Steamed Broccoli

A light and healthy veggie side that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Roasted Asparagus

Adds a bit of elegance and a slightly charred flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.

Grilled Zucchini

Fresh, smoky, and mild—a great complement to the cheesy pasta.

Tomato Basil Soup

For a full-on comfort meal, this classic soup pairs perfectly.

Sparkling Water or Lemonade

A refreshing drink to cut through the richness of the cheese sauce.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of pasta besides penne?
Absolutely! Rigatoni, ziti, or even rotini will hold the sauce well. Just be sure to choose a pasta with grooves or texture so the creamy sauce clings to every bite.

2. Can I substitute Velveeta with another cheese?
Yes, you can use cheddar or a processed cheese blend, but keep in mind that Velveeta melts especially smooth and gives the dish its signature creaminess.

3. Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?
You can make it a few hours in advance and reheat before serving. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce when reheating so it stays creamy.

4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Definitely! If you have rotisserie chicken or leftovers, just warm them up and add them to the finished pasta.

5. What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of butter. The sauce might be a little lighter, but still delicious.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra mozzarella or throw in some red pepper flakes? Did you try a different pasta shape?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!

Explore beautifully curated comfort meal ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next cozy favorite.

---

Conclusion

Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is the kind of comfort food you dream about on a chilly evening or when you just want a guaranteed dinner win. With tender, golden chicken and a velvety, cheesy sauce coating every bite of pasta, it’s a meal that satisfies and impresses. Simple enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to serve to guests—this one deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: