Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

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Imagine the rich creaminess of Velveeta melting into tender penne pasta, paired with juicy chicken and smothered in a garlic butter Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite. This dish is the ultimate comfort food with an indulgent twist. It wraps you in warmth and flavor, perfect for family dinners or a simple weeknight treat when you need something fuss-free but full of soul.

Each element of this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne balances the others beautifully. The chicken brings protein and heartiness, the pasta soaks up the luscious sauce, and the garlic-Parmesan combo creates a deeply savory experience that feels gourmet without the effort. If you’re looking to impress without stress, this recipe is calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne

This meal is pure magic for busy nights. It comes together quickly, requires minimal ingredients, and offers maximum payoff in flavor and texture. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup just as easy as cooking. Plus, thanks to Velveeta, the sauce stays silky and never clumps — a dream for cheese lovers.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Use leftover rotisserie chicken, switch up the pasta shape, or even toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. This recipe is a reliable foundation for whatever spin you want to take.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here, cut into bite-sized pieces. They cook fast and absorb all that buttery, cheesy flavor wonderfully. If you want a shortcut, shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and still delivers juicy, flavorful results.

You can also use grilled or roasted chicken for a slightly smoky flavor. Just make sure it’s not heavily seasoned or sauced, so it doesn’t compete with the garlic Parmesan richness.

Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne

This dish gets its magic from a short list of essential ingredients, each playing a specific role in building the sauce’s creaminess and enhancing the savory bite of the chicken. Don’t be tempted to swap too many out — each one adds depth and richness to the final dish.

• Penne pasta
• Velveeta cheese
• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Garlic cloves
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil

How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce later, if needed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Once warmed, add cubed Velveeta cheese and stir gently until it melts completely into a creamy base. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir again.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. The dish is best enjoyed warm and cheesy, straight from the stove.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne

This creamy pasta dish is best served fresh, right when the sauce is velvety and the chicken still tender. It feeds around four people generously, making it a great option for family dinners or for impressing guests on a cozy night in. The warmth of the sauce paired with the golden sear on the chicken creates a mouthwatering contrast in texture and flavor that’s hard to beat.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s smoothness. Warm it slowly over low heat on the stove or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

What to Serve With Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne?

Garlic Bread with Herbs

A warm, crusty garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and soaks up all that leftover sauce like a dream.

Simple Caesar Salad

The cool crispness of romaine and tangy dressing brings a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans

Lightly steamed greens balance out the dish and add color and nutrients to your plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized edges and earthy notes complement the buttery sauce perfectly.

Lemon Butter Asparagus

A citrusy pop from lemon brightens the meal and cuts through the richness.

Caprese Skewers

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil on a stick make for a vibrant and fresh appetizer to start your meal.

Sparkling Water with Lemon or Wine

Something light to drink helps balance the creamy heaviness of the dish.

Mini Cheesecake Cups or Fruit Tart

Finish on a sweet note with something light and indulgent.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Creamy Twist?

If this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne hit the spot, you’ll love exploring more pasta-forward creations from our kitchen:

• Try this rich and satisfying Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a similar garlicky cream-based pasta experience.
• Our zesty Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe offers spice and heat if you’re craving a bold flavor profile.
• Don’t miss this cozy Creamy Mushroom Ravioli that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Lighten it up with Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry when you need something fresh but hearty.
• For indulgence at its peak, the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is a must-try.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And when you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you sneak in spinach? Go heavy on the garlic? Maybe swapped in turkey or used gluten-free pasta?

Share your tweaks and let’s keep the dinner inspiration going.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and creamy pasta gems on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new favorites.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a comfort experience. With the ease of one-skillet cooking, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor, this recipe belongs in your weeknight rotation. It offers the coziness of a classic pasta dish with the nostalgic cheesiness of Velveeta, all wrapped in a sauce so rich you’ll want to scoop it by the spoonful.

Whether you’re serving family or just spoiling yourself with something satisfying, this pasta dish delivers every single time.

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