When it comes to weeknight comfort food, nothing wraps you in warm, cheesy goodness quite like Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce. Picture this: perfectly seared, juicy chicken thighs with a smoky crust, nestled up next to rigatoni smothered in a velvety cheese sauce that’s been elevated with rich garlic and a hint of herbs.

This dish is more than just a dinner—it’s a full-on flavor experience that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this creamy chicken pasta brings the wow factor with its golden presentation and satisfying, savory taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best results for this creamy chicken rigatoni, your kitchen setup matters just as much as your ingredients. Start with a cast-iron skillet—it’s key for getting that beautiful sear and smoky flavor on the chicken. For boiling your rigatoni evenly and quickly, a large pot is essential.

You’ll also need a non-stick saucepan for building the garlic cheese sauce—this prevents sticking and allows gentle heating for perfect smoothness. A whisk helps keep your sauce lump-free, while tongs and a sharp chef’s knife are crucial for flipping and slicing the chicken to just the right thickness. Don’t forget a colander for draining the pasta and a large serving platter to showcase your final masterpiece.

Having the right tools makes this process smoother and ensures every layer of flavor shines.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni

Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose—from flavor to texture to the perfect melt.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Preferred for their rich flavor and tenderness when seared.
Rigatoni Pasta: The ridges in rigatoni hold on to the cheese sauce, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Velveeta Cheese: This is the heart of the creamy sauce—smooth, melty, and undeniably comforting.

Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a stretchy, gooey element to the garlic sauce that complements the Velveeta beautifully.
Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, creating that silky texture we crave.
Fresh Garlic (minced): Provides depth and a punch of savory aroma to the sauce.

Butter: Helps sauté the garlic and adds richness to the sauce.
Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken, giving it a crisp edge and locking in moisture.
Parsley (chopped): A pop of green and freshness to balance the dish.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In a non-stick saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Add Velveeta cubes and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Toss in the shredded mozzarella and keep stirring until combined into a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss until fully coated. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Slice and Plate

Slice the rested chicken into thick, juicy strips. Plate a generous portion of the cheesy rigatoni, then top or serve alongside with sliced chicken. Sprinkle parsley over the top for a fresh finish.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet or platter. The cheese sauce is at its best when it’s fresh, creamy, and still slightly stretchy from the mozzarella. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and maybe an extra grind of black pepper for a little flair.

Pair it with a side salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to add some freshness. A slice of crusty garlic bread never hurts, either!

For storing leftovers, place the cooled pasta and chicken in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing, or drizzle hot sauce over the final plate.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well too—just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

What other pasta shapes work with this sauce?

Penne, ziti, or even fusilli can all handle the richness of this cheese sauce. Choose shapes with texture for the best hold.

Is it okay to make the sauce in advance?

You can, but it’s best fresh. If you do make it ahead, reheat it slowly and add a bit of cream to bring it back to life.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended because the creamy sauce may separate. For best results, enjoy within a few days.

What herbs pair best with this dish?

Parsley is great, but you could also try thyme or basil for an herby twist.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce, you’ll want to try a few more crave-worthy creations from Life With Olivia:

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for bold flavor in one pan.
Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta with an irresistible kick.

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a veggie-packed twist.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini if you’re in the mood for creamy decadence.
One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta to switch up the meat but keep the heat.

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And if you gave this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you tweak the spice level or try a different pasta shape? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments—we’re all about sharing good food and even better tips.

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dinner. Juicy seared chicken thighs paired with rigatoni pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce made from Velveeta and mozzarella—this dish is creamy, savory, and made to impress with minimal effort.