Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie has always been my go-to for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, especially with my picky eaters. I remember the first time I made this dish, the whole house filled with the most amazing aroma of melted cheese and savory chicken. It’s that perfect combination of comfort and ease. Seriously, this creamy chicken bowtie Velveeta is pure magic in a bowl, melting in your mouth with every bite. It’s so simple to whip up, making it the ultimate easy Velveeta chicken bowtie for any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie
This dish is a weeknight winner for so many reasons:
- Incredible taste that satisfies major cravings
- Super speedy prep and cook time
- A surprisingly balanced meal with protein and carbs
- Budget-friendly ingredients that stretch for a family
- A definite hit with kids, making it a perfect family-friendly meal
- It’s the ultimate Velveeta chicken pasta recipe for comfort
- This Velveeta chicken pasta recipe is incredibly versatile
- A truly satisfying chicken Velveeta pasta dinner
Ingredients for Creamy Velveeta Chicken Pasta Bake
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making a truly cheesy chicken bowtie Velveeta delight. This recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, ensuring a delicious meal with every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes – this ensures each bite is packed with protein
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the chicken and adding a touch of richness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – provides a foundational garlic flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – adds a savory depth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smoky sweetness and color
- ½ teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a little warmth
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley – adds a fresh, herbaceous note
- 12 oz bowtie pasta – the perfect shape to hold all that creamy sauce
- Salted water for boiling – essential for cooking the pasta
- Velveeta cheese – the star for that signature creamy, gooey texture
- Mozzarella cheese – for extra meltiness and a milder cheese flavor
- Garlic – fresh minced garlic is key for a robust sauce
- Cream – heavy cream makes the sauce incredibly luscious
- Herbs – your favorite fresh or dried herbs to finish
How to Make Easy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie
Let’s dive into making this incredibly satisfying dish. This method is designed to be straightforward, ensuring you can achieve that perfect creamy texture and cheesy goodness without any fuss. Follow these steps to master how to make Velveeta chicken bowtie for a truly delicious meal.
- Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, prepare your chicken. Toss the cubed chicken breasts in a bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley. Make sure each piece is nicely coated.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear it until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Step 3: Now, let’s cook the pasta. Boil 12 oz of bowtie pasta in generously salted water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. You want it tender but with a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, but don’t rinse it.
- Step 4: In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to wash!), melt your cheeses. Add a generous amount of Velveeta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Pour in some cream and add minced garlic. Stir constantly over medium heat until everything is melted into a smooth, luscious sauce. Add your favorite herbs and give it another stir. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see the sauce become wonderfully creamy as you stir.
- Step 5: Combine everything in the skillet. Add the cooked chicken and the drained bowtie pasta to the creamy cheese sauce. Toss gently with a spoon or tongs until every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in that glorious, cheesy goodness. This step truly brings the Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie together.
- Step 6: Serve it up! Dish out your delicious Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie immediately. Garnish with a little extra dried parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet.
Pro Tips for the Best Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Recipe
Want to elevate your chicken and Velveeta bowtie creation? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect, craveable result. These tips will help ensure your meal is a guaranteed success.
- Don’t overcook the chicken before adding it to the sauce; it will continue to cook slightly when tossed.
- For an extra creamy sauce, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of just cream.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving; a little extra salt or pepper can really enhance the flavors.
- Consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tangy kick.
What’s the secret to perfect Chicken and Velveeta pasta bake?
The real secret to a perfect creamy Velveeta bowtie chicken bake is building flavor in layers. Searing the chicken properly and using fresh garlic in the sauce are key. Don’t be afraid to let the cheese sauce simmer gently for a minute or two to thicken nicely. For more tips on achieving perfect pasta dishes, check out these latest recipes.
Can I make Chicken Velveeta pasta dinner ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare most of this Chicken Velveeta pasta dinner ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Make the sauce just before serving and combine everything. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This is similar to how you might prepare a Mississippi chicken potatoes recipe ahead of time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Velveeta chicken noodles recipe?
To avoid common pitfalls with this Velveeta chicken noodles recipe, don’t overcook your pasta; al dente is best. Also, ensure you’re using good quality Velveeta and not a generic substitute, as it really affects the texture and melt. Lastly, don’t rush the sauce-making process; let the cheeses melt slowly and evenly. If you’re looking for other easy dinner ideas, consider this easy Mexican white trash casserole.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie
This rich and cheesy pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For a complete meal that’s a guaranteed hit, especially for picky eaters, consider serving this kid-friendly Velveeta chicken pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the pasta perfectly.
Another great option is some crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce left on the plate! For a more substantial meal, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus are excellent choices that add color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish. You can find great tips on steaming vegetables like broccoli in this guide to steaming broccoli.
Nutrition Facts for Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie
When you’re enjoying a hearty bowl of this delicious pasta, it’s good to have an idea of what you’re eating. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving to help you understand this comforting dish better.
- Calories: Approx. 600
- Fat: Approx. 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 12g
- Protein: Approx. 40g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 55g
- Fiber: Approx. 3g
- Sugar: Approx. 5g
- Sodium: Approx. 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie
To keep this delicious Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie tasting its best, proper storage is key. Once it has cooled down slightly, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can refrigerate this cheesy pasta dish for about 3 to 4 days. It holds up really well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep, much like a convenient chicken Velveeta bowtie casserole recipe.
If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short bursts until heated through. This method helps maintain that wonderful creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie
What is chicken creamy Velveeta bowtie?
Chicken creamy Velveeta bowtie is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce made primarily with Velveeta cheese. It’s known for its cheesy, gooey texture and ease of preparation, making it a popular family meal.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is classic, you can easily substitute other shapes like rotini, penne, or shells. Just ensure you cook them according to package directions until al dente. The key is a shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
What can I add to make it healthier?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding steamed broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, or grilled zucchini to the pasta. You could also swap some of the Velveeta for a lower-fat cheese or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Remember, even with additions, it’s still a decadent cheesy dish!
How do I make the sauce smoother if it gets clumpy?
If your Velveeta sauce becomes clumpy, it’s usually due to overheating or adding liquid too quickly. Try reducing the heat to low and stirring in a tablespoon or two of milk or cream at a time until it smooths out. Gentle, consistent stirring is your best friend here.
Variations of Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie, you might want to mix things up a bit. I love experimenting with different flavors and methods to keep this dish exciting. Here are a few ideas to make your pasta even more interesting, whether you’re looking for healthier options or just a new twist on a favorite.
- Spicy Kick: For a little heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño when you add the garlic to the sauce. This gives it a delightful spicy kick that complements the cheesy goodness.
- Veggie Boost: Add a cup of steamed broccoli florets or sautéed spinach right before serving to make it a more complete meal. This is a fantastic way to incorporate more greens, and it holds up well in the cheesy sauce.
- Creamy Chicken Pasta Velveeta Style with a Twist: Try adding a tablespoon of pesto to the sauce for a fresh, herbaceous flavor, or swap some of the cream for milk and a bit of cream cheese for an even richer, tangier sauce.
- One-Pot Wonder: If you want to simplify cleanup, try cooking the pasta directly in the skillet with the sauce and chicken. You’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time, but it’s a great way to get a similar result with fewer dishes.
Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie: Pure Comfort Food
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a quick, satisfying, and family-friendly dish. Juicy chicken and bowtie pasta are coated in a rich, velvety sauce made with Velveeta and mozzarella cheese, infused with garlic and herbs. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- Salted water for boiling
- Velveeta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Garlic
- Cream
- Herbs
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried parsley.
- Cook the chicken: Sear the seasoned chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt Velveeta cheese and mozzarella cheese with cream and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add herbs.
- Combine: Add the cooked chicken and drained bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh garlic.
- Adjust herbs and seasonings to your preference.
- You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet and Boil
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 600
- Sugar: Approx. 5g
- Sodium: Approx. 800mg
- Fat: Approx. 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 13g
- Trans Fat: Approx. 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 55g
- Fiber: Approx. 3g
- Protein: Approx. 40g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 120mg
