Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s unapologetically cheesy, rich, and bursting with comforting flavors, this Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is here to satisfy every craving. Creamy, garlicky, and decadently cheesy, it’s a dish that elevates everyday chicken and pasta into a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence.

This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious sauce made from garlic butter, Parmesan, and the unmistakable smoothness of Velveeta cheese. Velveeta is the secret ingredient here, lending a velvety texture and rich cheesy flavor that’s hard to beat. Paired with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness and red pepper flakes for optional heat, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-creamy cheese sauce thanks to Velveeta and Parmesan.
• Simple and quick: Ready in about 35 minutes.
• Perfectly balanced flavors: Garlic butter and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes.
• Family-friendly comfort food with a gourmet twist.
• Flexible seasoning: Mild or spicy, it’s your call.

Ingredients Breakdown

Serves: 4–6

Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded Velveeta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Penne Pasta

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

Pro tip: Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed later.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and milk, combining well with the garlic butter. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Gradually add the shredded Velveeta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss gently to combine everything evenly.

Heat through for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Use different pasta: Penne works best to hold the sauce, but rigatoni or shells are great alternatives.
• Swap Velveeta: If you prefer, use cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish delivers a luxurious cheesy experience with a pronounced garlic butter richness. The Velveeta cheese adds an ultra-smooth, velvety texture, while the Parmesan contributes a nutty, slightly salty bite. The red pepper flakes add just enough heat to balance the richness without overpowering it.

Ideal Pairings

Wine:

• Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, both crisp enough to cut through the creaminess.

Non-Alcoholic:

• Sparkling water with lemon
• Iced tea with a splash of lemon
• A light citrus soda

Suggested Side Dishes

• Steamed or roasted broccoli or asparagus to add crunch and color.
• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance richness.
• Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for extra indulgence.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving Estimate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	720
Protein	52g
Carbohydrates	50g
Fat	38g
Fiber	2g

Dietary Notes:
Contains dairy and gluten. Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Cook and dice the chicken in advance to save time.
• Sauce can be prepared a day ahead and gently reheated.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just thaw fully and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is Velveeta necessary?
Velveeta gives this sauce its signature smooth texture but can be substituted with processed cheese or a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You could try dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, but it will change the sauce’s texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Cook the sauce gently on medium heat and add cheese gradually while stirring continuously.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a larger skillet or pan to avoid overcrowding.

Cooking Timeline at a Glance

Component	Time
Cook pasta	10–12 minutes
Cook chicken	6–8 minutes
Make sauce	7 minutes
Combine & serve	3 minutes
Total time	30–35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta in large bowls garnished with fresh parsley for a rustic look. For special occasions, add extra grated Parmesan and a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce. This dish also reheats well, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Velveeta Shrimp Penne: Replace chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Velveeta Penne: Swap chicken for roasted cauliflower or zucchini.
• Baked Cheesy Penne: Assemble the pasta and sauce in a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Ingredient Spotlight: Velveeta Cheese

Velveeta is beloved for its smooth melting properties and creamy texture, making it ideal for sauces and dips. Unlike traditional cheeses, it melts evenly and creates a velvety consistency without clumping or oil separation.

Tips:

• Keep Velveeta refrigerated and use within its best-by date.
• Cube or shred Velveeta before melting to ensure even incorporation.
• Pair it with sharper cheeses like Parmesan to balance richness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to get a nice sear.
• Use fresh garlic rather than powder for the sauce base, but add garlic powder to the chicken for an even flavor layer.
• Stir the sauce gently and add cheese in small batches to avoid clumping.
• Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing:
You can freeze cooked pasta with sauce for up to 1 month, but expect some texture changes. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

Avoid freezing the chicken separately after cooking as it can dry out.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	720
Protein	52g
Carbohydrates	50g
Fat	38g
Fiber	2g

Allergen Info: Contains dairy and gluten.

Conclusion

Cheesy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavorful garlic and tender chicken, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s quick and simple, this dish has you covered.

The rich Velveeta cheese sauce brings a smooth, decadent texture that’s perfectly balanced by the sharpness of Parmesan and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for home cooks of all levels. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Next time you want a hearty, cheesy pasta dinner with a gourmet flair, give this recipe a try. You’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing it with family and friends, and savoring every delicious bite.

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