Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Garlic Chicken with Twisted Pasta in Velveeta Cream Sauce. This creamy dish features tender chicken and spiral-shaped pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that is sure to be a hit at any table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and offers a delightful combination of savory spices and cheesy goodness. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that will please everyone’s palate!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli, fusilli, or any spiral-shaped pasta)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook twisted pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (9-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook seasoned chicken until browned (6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for one minute.
- Whisk in flour to form a roux; then gradually add milk while whisking until smooth.
- Lower heat and mix in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted. Add mozzarella and Parmesan; season to taste.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce; toss well and add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg