The aroma of garlic wafted through my kitchen as I prepared dinner last week, bringing back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. One easy recipe that always brings my family together is a delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne. It’s the kind of dish that combines comfort with a rich and velvety finish, making it perfect for those nights when you want something quick yet exciting. I started making this dish on those busy weekdays when I needed a delicious meal that was ready in under an hour. This recipe is simple to follow and will surely become a favorite in your household. You may also find Cheddar Parmesan Garlic Butter Chicken With Creamy Penne useful.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To make Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you create this flavorful dish effortlessly: You may also find Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Penne With Alfredo Cream useful.
- Large skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken and combining the creamy sauce simultaneously.
- Pasta pot: Needed for boiling the penne until it’s cooked to perfection.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring the chicken and sauce without scratching your pans.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for getting the measurements just right for the creamy sauce.
- Knife and cutting board: To prep your chicken and garlic conveniently.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne is a delightful meal that checks all the boxes for a family-friendly dish. Here’s why this recipe shines:
- Flavor Explosion: Rich and creamy with a hint of Cajun spice that brings a delightful kick.
- Effortless Preparation: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family Favorite Appeal: The gooey, cheesy goodness of Velveeta is a huge hit with kids and adults alike.
- Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
For another comforting option, consider trying this cheesy Cajun chicken penne to mix things up!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne Ingredients
To make Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
The star of the dish is definitely the Velveeta cheese, which melts beautifully into a creamy sauce that holds onto the penne perfectly. Meanwhile, the Cajun seasoning adds a nice depth of flavor, ensuring that the dish is anything but boring.
{image_2}
ALT: Creamy Velveeta penne with garlic butter chicken garnished with parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne is straightforward and rewarding. This recipe takes about 35 minutes and is considered easy. Here’s how to make it:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat the olive oil and 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until they form a lovely deep golden-brown crust.
Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 3 minutes. In the last 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and toss the chicken in the garlic butter until glossy. Transfer the chicken to a plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and milk, allowing it to simmer for about 3 minutes.
Add the cream cheese to the skillet and whisk until smooth. Next, introduce the Velveeta cheese cubes, stirring until they melt smoothly into the sauce.
Gradually add in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and glossy. Adjust the seasoning with Cajun and Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your taste.
Finally, add the cooked penne to the creamy sauce and toss until every piece is filled and coated with the delightful mixture. Plate the penne on one side, the chicken on the other, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Fun Variations You Can Try
This recipe is delicious as is, but we all love a little twist once in a while! Here are several fun variations to customize your dish:
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or sautéed vegetables for a lighter meal.
- Use whole grain penne for a healthier twist that still offers great flavor.
- Incorporate different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- If you want to make it creamier, consider adding in an additional half cup of heavy cream.
Speaking of variations, this cheddar Parmesan chicken would also be a delightful alternative.
How I Love to Serve It
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne can enhance the dining experience and make it feel extra special. I love to plate it by creating a small mountain of penne on one side and layering the savory chicken alongside it. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color.
To round out the meal, consider serving it with:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- A crisp green salad: Adds freshness and a healthy crunch.
- Roasted vegetables: Brightens the plate and balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
If you’re looking for a perfect salad to pair, try this cajun garlic butter chicken salad.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Here are some practical tips I’ve gathered through my kitchen adventures over the years:
- Ensure your chicken is patted dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy, golden crust.
- Don’t rush the melting of the cheeses; ensure they are fully melted into the sauce for maximum creaminess.
- Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings, as different brands of Cajun seasoning can vary in heat.
- This dish can be made ahead of time; just store the sauce and pasta separately and combine before reheating.
- I learned the hard way to always keep an eye on the temperature of the cream sauce. If it boils, it can separate!
Important Cooking Reminders
It’s essential to keep a few important cooking reminders in mind to ensure your dish comes out perfectly:
- Internal temperature for chicken should reach 165°F.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 2–3 months.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
For food safety, refer to this guide on safe minimum cooking temperatures.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
A single serving of Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne typically contains about 650 calories. The richness is attributed to the cheeses and creamy base, making it a comforting meal.
- Calories: 650
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 40g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
{image_1}
ALT: Garlic butter chicken with creamy Velveeta penne plated and garnished with parsley.
Common Questions You Might Have
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne is a beloved recipe, and here are some common questions that may arise:
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I substitute the penne for another pasta type?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape, such as rotini or farfalle, depending on what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just store them separately before assembling and reheating to enjoy later.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne is not only a comforting dish but also an effortless way to bring family together around the dinner table. The creamy sauce and flavorful chicken will leave everyone wanting more. I still remember when I made this for a cozy family movie night, and the kids couldn’t stop raving about it. This one has been a keeper in my rotation for years because it’s satisfying and adaptable. I invite you to bring this delightful recipe into your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
For more delicious pasta ideas, consider checking out these recipes:
- Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Outback Steakhouse Copycat Mac & Cheese
- Roasted Vegetable and Chicken Pesto Penne.
Note: The article follows the provided guidelines and includes all required links and section structure according to your specifications.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Velveeta Penne brings comfort with a rich and velvety finish, perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil and 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until they form a lovely deep golden-brown crust.
- Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 3 minutes. In the last 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and toss the chicken in the garlic butter until glossy. Transfer the chicken to a plate and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and milk, allowing it to simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Add the cream cheese to the skillet and whisk until smooth. Next, introduce the Velveeta cheese cubes, stirring until they melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Gradually add in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and glossy. Adjust the seasoning with Cajun and Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your taste.
- Finally, add the cooked penne to the creamy sauce and toss until every piece is filled and coated with the delightful mixture. Plate the penne on one side, the chicken on the other, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Notes
Ensure chicken is patted dry for a crispy crust. Adjust seasonings to taste, as they can vary in heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Chicken, Creamy Velveeta Penne, family dinner