Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Sauce

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that combines creamy richness with savory comfort? Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is that perfect meal that hits the spot every time. Imagine tender chicken pieces enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, perfectly coated penne pasta, and a hint of garlic that lingers in the air. This dish offers an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and beckons everyone to gather around the table.

I can still remember the first time I made this dish for my family on a chilly evening. As I stirred the creamy sauce, laughter echoed through the house, and anticipation filled the room. It became an instant favorite, ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. The balance of flavors—creamy, buttery, and cheesy—creates a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that promises deliciousness with each bite!

Key Ingredients For Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on your needs.
• Penne Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic enhances the aroma of the dish.
• Velveeta Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: It provides richness to the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy.

For the Sauce:

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it adds depth to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor profile with its nutty notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Second Step : Cook Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Third Step : Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Fourth Step : Make The Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously, then add Velveeta cheese. Allow it to melt completely into a smooth sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully blended.

Fifth Step : Combine Pasta & Chicken

Add cooked penne pasta and reserved chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated with the creamy sauce.

Sixth Step : Serve

Transfer your creamy Velveeta chicken penne onto plates or into bowls. You can garnish with additional Parmesan if desired for an extra touch of flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and quality cheeses for maximum flavor impact.
• Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or more cream until desired consistency is reached.
• Create Leftovers: This dish stores well in airtight containers; simply reheat on low heat when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Cooking Instructions

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, incorporate diced chicken into the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

Next, reduce the heat and stir in Velveeta cheese cubes. Allow them to melt into a creamy sauce. Mix in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure that each piece of pasta is coated in that luscious garlic butter Parmesan sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce offers delightful serving options:

• Garnish with fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness to your dish.
• Serve with crusty bread: A side of warm bread complements this creamy pasta perfectly.
• Pair with a green salad: A simple salad balances out the richness of the sauce.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers of this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if necessary to restore its creamy texture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions of this dish. Divide individual servings into freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are sealed tightly. You can freeze them for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce is not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients:

– **Protein**: The chicken adds a great source of lean protein, helping you feel full longer.

– **Calcium**: Velveeta and Parmesan cheese contribute calcium for strong bones.

– **Carbohydrates**: Penne pasta offers energy through carbohydrates, perfect for active individuals.

However, keep in mind that this recipe is rich and should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs

What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?

If you want an alternative to Velveeta cheese in this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce, consider using cream cheese or shredded mozzarella. Both will give you that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor. To mimic Velveeta’s smooth melting quality, you may need to adjust your cooking method slightly by mixing these cheeses thoroughly into your sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce ahead of time. Simply follow all cooking instructions but stop just before combining the pasta with the sauce. Store the individual components separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat both parts and combine them for a delightful meal.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make your Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce gluten-free, simply swap out regular penne pasta for gluten-free penne made from rice or corn flour. This change allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious meal without worry.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to enhance nutrition and flavor in your Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce. Consider incorporating spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during cooking for added texture and nutrients while keeping the overall taste deliciously creamy.