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Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

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Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a comforting pasta dish made with juicy chicken, tender rigatoni, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts

12 oz rigatoni pasta

8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside to rest, then slice.
  3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and Velveeta cubes. Cook until Velveeta is fully melted and smooth.
  6. Add shredded mozzarella, stirring until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  7. Toss cooked rigatoni in the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to thin.
  8. Serve pasta topped with sliced chicken and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or shells for variety.
  • Use spicy paprika or add red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Try chicken sausage or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein.
  • Mix in Parmesan cheese for a sharper flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/creamy-velveeta-chicken-rigatoni-with-mozzarella-garlic-sauce/