This Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce is the definition of comfort food done right. Juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs are paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all bathed in a dreamy cheese sauce made with Velveeta and melty mozzarella, infused with garlic and herbs. It’s rich, hearty, and guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or looking for something cozy and delicious to serve guests, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s a creamy, savory, and satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes—a true soul-soothing experience.

Why You’ll Love This Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

Irresistibly Creamy: The Velveeta and mozzarella duo creates a cheese sauce that’s unbelievably smooth and decadent.
Flavor-Packed Chicken: The pan-seared chicken is seasoned and cooked until golden, locking in all the juices.
Quick Yet Impressive: It comes together in under an hour but tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
Family Friendly: Kids love the cheesy pasta, and adults appreciate the flavor depth from the garlic and herbs.
Perfect for Leftovers: The sauce keeps the pasta moist even when reheated, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish effortlessly delicious, here are the tools and equipment that streamline the process and ensure perfect results:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For searing the chicken and developing those crispy, golden edges while locking in moisture.
Large Pot: Ideal for boiling your penne pasta evenly without sticking.
Whisk: Essential when creating a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce from Velveeta and mozzarella.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Useful for stirring the sauce gently and scraping every last bit of cheesy goodness from the pan.
Tongs: Makes flipping and transferring chicken easier and cleaner.

Each tool plays a crucial role in keeping your cooking efficient and your textures on point. A well-seared chicken and velvety cheese sauce need the right setup to shine.

Ingredients for the Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

Boneless Chicken Thighs: Rich and juicy, they soak up the seasonings beautifully and stay moist through cooking.
Penne Pasta: Its ridged texture holds onto the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Velveeta Cheese: The base of the cheese sauce, it melts into a silky, luxurious texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a stretchy, melty layer that complements Velveeta’s creaminess.
Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with savory depth and aroma.
Heavy Cream: Enriches the sauce, giving it a velvety finish.
Butter: Used for sautéing garlic and helping the cheese emulsify.
Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning the chicken and balancing the sauce.
Italian Seasoning: Brings herbaceous notes that elevate the entire dish.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness for garnish.

How To Make the Velveeta Chicken Penne in Creamy Mozzarella Garlic Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken in a bit of butter until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add more butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Gradually stir in chunks of Velveeta, whisking until smooth. Add mozzarella and keep whisking until fully melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained penne pasta into the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated. Slice the cooked chicken and nestle it into the creamy pasta.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve immediately while hot and bubbly.

Serving and Storing Velveeta Chicken Penne

This dish is best served immediately while warm, creamy, and fresh off the stove. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta and chicken into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce and microwave or heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

Freezing isn’t recommended as the cream-based cheese sauce may separate upon thawing, altering its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! While thighs offer more flavor and moisture, chicken breast works too. Just be careful not to overcook them.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely. Rigatoni, ziti, or rotini are great alternatives that also hold onto sauce well.

What can I substitute for Velveeta?

You can use cream cheese or a mild cheddar, but Velveeta provides the smoothest texture. Expect a slight difference in creaminess.

How can I make this spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for a little kick.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure your cheeses and cream are certified gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales beautifully for larger groups. Use a bigger skillet and pot, and double all the ingredients accordingly.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Velveeta Chicken Penne, you’ll probably enjoy these other rich and hearty dishes:

Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a touch of sweetness and heat.
One Pan Tangy Honey BBQ Chicken Penne for bold smoky flavor.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a comfort meal packed with nostalgia.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps if you’re craving handheld goodness.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for another creamy twist.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra cheese or play with the herbs? I love hearing your spins on my recipes. Ask away if you have questions—let’s help each other cook better and bolder.