Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, this Velveeta Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or trying to impress dinner guests with a one-pot masterpiece, this dish delivers serious flavor with minimal cleanup.

The combination of Velveeta’s silky melt, mozzarella’s stretch, and a garlicky cream sauce wrapping around pillowy tortellini creates a dish that’s impossible to resist. Add juicy, golden-seared chicken slices on the side, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality dinner served right at your table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this recipe shine, preparation is key. Here’s a quick guide to the essential tools and their roles:

Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: You’ll want something spacious and deep to allow room for the tortellini to cook evenly and the sauce to develop rich, creamy flavor.
Tongs or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the pasta gently without tearing the delicate tortellini.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Crucial for prepping your chicken to the perfect thickness.

Whisk: Helps create a lump-free garlic cream sauce and ensures the Velveeta and mozzarella blend smoothly.
Meat Thermometer (optional): Ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F.

With these tools, you’ll stay efficient and mess-free in the kitchen while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients for the Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Tortellini

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: This protein anchors the dish and balances the richness of the sauce.
Cheese Tortellini: These pasta pockets provide the perfect chewy bite and carry the creamy sauce beautifully.
Velveeta Cheese: Melts like a dream, giving the sauce its signature creamy texture.

Mozzarella Cheese: Adds gooeyness and an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Garlic (fresh or paste): Elevates the entire flavor profile with warmth and aroma.
Heavy Cream: Provides the luxurious base for the sauce.

Butter: Enhances richness and helps sauté the garlic.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken to a golden perfection.
Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Essential for depth and balance.

Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds color and freshness at the end.

How To Make the Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside and slice.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Make the Roux

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and fresh garlic, sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in a bit of flour if you prefer a thicker sauce and whisk to create a roux.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking. Add cubed Velveeta and stir until melted. Then add shredded mozzarella. Let everything combine into a luscious garlic cheese sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini straight into the sauce. Let it simmer gently until the pasta is tender and infused with flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

Slice the cooked chicken and arrange over the tortellini. Spoon some extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Best Way to Serve and Store This Dish

Serve the Velveeta Chicken Tortellini hot, preferably straight from the skillet. Pair it with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread for a full meal.

To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Freezing is possible but may affect the creamy texture. If freezing, store in individual portions and reheat slowly to avoid graininess.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce to give the creamy sauce a kick.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure it’s fully heated through before serving.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Cream cheese, gouda, or sharp cheddar can substitute or accompany Velveeta and mozzarella for extra richness.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy when reheating?

Reheat over low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms up.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the cheeses and cream you use are gluten-free as well.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re all about cozy pasta dishes with creamy sauces and satisfying proteins, try these Life With Olivia favorites next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try a different cheese combo? Add some spinach or spice?

I love seeing your takes on these one-pot wonders. And if you want more easy dinner inspiration, check out my daily kitchen creations on Pinterest: Life With Olivia

Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce One-Pot Dinner

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

A creamy, cheesy one-pot wonder that brings together juicy seared chicken, tender cheese tortellini, and a luscious garlic sauce made with Velveeta and mozzarella. Quick to prepare and irresistibly flavorful—perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.