Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that feels indulgent but is quick to prepare? This *Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce* checks all the boxes! Featuring tender seasoned chicken, creamy Velveeta and mozzarella cheese sauce, and bowtie pasta that soaks up every drop—this dish is a family favorite comfort meal you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner, food ideas for picky eaters, or just love trying new pasta recipes, this one’s a winner in every way. Perfect for cozy nights, busy weekdays, or when you’re craving a cheesy pasta fix.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1.5 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
12 oz bowtie pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.25 tsp salt
0.5 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken on medium-high for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente (10–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
5. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add milk while whisking to create a smooth base.
6. Add Velveeta and mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Add drained pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Use reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
8. Serve pasta with the seared chicken on top or mixed in. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
For even creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream with the milk.
Don’t skip salting the pasta water—it’s essential for flavor.
Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and gives a smoother sauce than pre-shredded.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy chicken pasta, Velveeta recipes, cheesy pasta, family dinner