Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

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There’s nothing like a plate of creamy, garlicky pasta to satisfy your cravings after a long day. Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the definition of comfort food with a savory twist. Picture tender, seasoned chicken bites served alongside rich and cheesy bowtie pasta, drenched in a luscious garlic mozzarella sauce. It’s a flavor-packed combo that turns a simple dinner into something unforgettable.

The buttery smoothness of Velveeta blends beautifully with the sharp pull of mozzarella, while fresh garlic and herbs tie everything together. This is the kind of meal that makes you want seconds before you’ve finished your first bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta brings warmth and comfort in every forkful.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this creamy chicken pasta dish with ease, you’ll want to have your kitchen properly armed. Here are the essential tools:

  • Large skillet or saute pan: This is your go-to for searing the chicken and building layers of flavor. A nonstick version prevents sticking, while cast iron gives a crisp golden sear.
  • Large pot for boiling pasta: Bowtie pasta needs ample space to move freely, ensuring it cooks evenly without clumping.
  • Strainer or colander: Crucial for draining the pasta quickly so it doesn’t get mushy.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce gently and scraping the flavorful bits from the skillet.
  • Grater or zester: Perfect for shredding fresh mozzarella and grating garlic, maximizing flavor in every bite.
  • Tongs: Useful for turning chicken pieces and mixing pasta without breaking it apart.

A smooth kitchen flow and the right tools make this recipe not only delicious but a joy to prepare.


Ingredients for the Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

  • Boneless Chicken Breast: Cubed and seared to add a savory, meaty base with a slightly crispy edge.
  • Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta: Holds sauce in every curve, giving the dish both charm and substance.
  • Velveeta Cheese: Melts effortlessly to provide that creamy, velvety sauce we crave.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded for extra gooey, cheesy stretch and richness.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds indulgent body and brings the cheeses together smoothly.
  • Fresh Garlic: Minced to infuse the sauce with bold, aromatic depth.
  • Butter: A touch of butter enriches the base and helps carry the garlic flavor.
  • Parsley: Chopped fresh or dried as garnish for brightness and color.
  • Salt & Pepper: To enhance and balance all the flavors.
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How To Make the Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. In a hot skillet with butter or oil, sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter and add minced garlic. Let it sizzle until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and slowly add chunks of Velveeta, letting it melt completely. Follow with shredded mozzarella and stir until silky.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it through the cheese sauce until fully coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together gently. Let it simmer for a minute or two so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra mozzarella if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness.


How to Serve and Store This Pasta Dish

Serve this dish hot in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra shredded mozzarella on top. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help revive the creamy texture. This pasta does not freeze well due to the cheese sauce, so enjoy it fresh when possible.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells also work well, but bowtie holds the sauce and chicken best.

What if I don’t have Velveeta?

You can substitute with cheddar or American cheese, though it may not be as smooth. Add extra cream to balance it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s not spicy by default. Add red pepper flakes if you’d like a kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just skip the searing step and shred the rotisserie chicken before adding it in.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Add it slowly over low heat and keep stirring. Don’t let the sauce boil once the cheese is in.


Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Velveeta chicken pasta, try these other Life With Olivia favorites:


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you! Did you swap in another cheese or add a sprinkle of chili? I’d love to hear your spin on it.

Questions are always welcome—let’s make dinnertime delicious together!


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Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A creamy, cheesy, and savory chicken pasta dish made with tender bowtie noodles, melted Velveeta, mozzarella, garlic, and herbs. This comforting recipe is a weeknight favorite that comes together with simple ingredients but offers a bold, rich flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.


Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breast, cubed

12 oz bowtie pasta

1 ½ cups Velveeta cheese, cubed

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup heavy cream

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper


Instructions

1. Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs. Sear in a hot skillet with butter until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

2. Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and stir.

4. Gradually add Velveeta cheese, stirring until fully melted. Mix in mozzarella until the sauce is smooth.

5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water if needed to thin it.

6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.

7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Always use low heat when adding cheese to prevent clumping.

Fresh mozzarella melts creamier than bagged shredded versions.

Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes before mixing it into the sauce to lock in juices.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 615
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 810mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, velveeta, mozzarella garlic sauce

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