Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

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I’m always on the hunt for comfort food that feels indulgent but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen—and this Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce hits every mark. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you up in cheesy, garlicky goodness and leaves everyone at the table reaching for seconds (and thirds). I first made this on a whim with a few pantry staples, and now it’s a weekly staple in my house.

What makes this pasta so special is the harmony of textures and flavors: the creamy Velveeta melts into a smooth sauce that hugs each bowtie noodle, the tender chicken adds protein and heartiness, and the garlic-mozzarella combo brings just the right amount of richness. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a group of friends, this dish brings instant satisfaction—and leftovers (if there are any) are just as irresistible the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

This dish brings together everything you crave in a cozy meal: creamy, cheesy, savory, and just a little indulgent. Velveeta adds that ultra-smooth melt that’s practically made for pasta, while mozzarella and garlic give the sauce depth and flavor. The bowtie pasta adds a fun texture, holding onto the creamy sauce perfectly. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at a gathering.

Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or a new go-to pasta recipe, this one checks all the boxes.

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What Type of Chicken Works Best for Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce?

You’ve got options here, but my personal favorite is boneless, skinless chicken breast—it’s lean, quick to cook, and absorbs the garlic-mozzarella flavor beautifully. If you prefer something a bit juicier, boneless chicken thighs also work really well and bring more depth to the dish.

Already have leftover rotisserie chicken? Use it! Just shred it and stir it in toward the end to warm through. This dish is super forgiving and adaptable to what’s in your fridge.

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Options for Substitutions

Not a fan of Velveeta? You can swap it for cream cheese and a bit of shredded cheddar for a similar creamy consistency, though you’ll miss that classic meltiness Velveeta offers. For a slightly healthier version, try using low-fat mozzarella and Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream (if you’re adding extra creaminess).

Can’t find bowtie pasta? Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni will do just fine—they all cling to the sauce in their own unique way.

And if you’re skipping meat, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted cauliflower for a hearty vegetarian twist.

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Ingredients for This Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy, cheesy sauce. It adds a fun texture and keeps every bite balanced.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean and quick to cook, these bring a hearty, satisfying protein element to the dish.

Velveeta cheese
This is what makes the sauce unbelievably smooth and creamy—it melts perfectly without any graininess.

Mozzarella cheese
Adds a stretchy, gooey finish and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the Velveeta.

Fresh garlic
Essential for infusing the sauce with rich, savory flavor. Garlic is the soul of the sauce.

Heavy cream (optional but recommended)
To elevate the creaminess even further—this makes the sauce feel restaurant-worthy.

Olive oil
Used to sauté the garlic and sear the chicken. Adds a subtle richness.

Salt and black pepper
Basic seasonings, but they’re key to enhancing every flavor in the dish.

Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Adds a pop of color and a little freshness to balance the richness.

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Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for later.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear on each side for about 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.

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Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cubed Velveeta cheese and pour in the heavy cream (if using). Stir continuously until the Velveeta is fully melted and smooth. Add the shredded mozzarella and continue stirring until fully incorporated.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you like, and get ready for compliments.

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How Long to Cook the Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

This dish comes together surprisingly fast! Here’s a breakdown:

• Pasta cooking time: About 10–12 minutes
• Chicken searing: Around 10–12 minutes total (depending on thickness)
• Sauce preparation and combining: Another 8–10 minutes

Total time: ~30–35 minutes from start to finish, making this a great option for a weeknight dinner that still feels rich and satisfying.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Aim for al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing – This helps retain moisture and keeps the pieces juicy.
• Use freshly shredded mozzarella – Pre-shredded versions often have anti-caking agents that can mess with the sauce’s texture.
• Control the heat when melting cheese – Keep it low to prevent the sauce from separating or burning.
• Reserve pasta water – A splash can work wonders to loosen the sauce without thinning the flavor.
• Season in layers – Taste at each stage and add salt or pepper as needed to balance the richness.
• Finish with parsley or even a squeeze of lemon – A little brightness goes a long way in cutting through the creaminess.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like this can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using too much heat when melting the cheese
  High heat can cause the sauce to separate or become gritty. Keep it low and stir gently.
• Skipping the pasta water
  That starchy water is golden—it helps bind and smooth out the sauce. Don’t toss it all out!
• Overcooking the chicken
  Dry chicken will make the whole dish feel off. Keep an eye on it and let it rest before slicing.
• Not seasoning properly
  Velveeta is salty, yes—but you still need to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Forgetting to stir the cheese sauce
  Letting it sit can lead to clumps or burning at the bottom of the pan. Stir until it’s silky smooth.

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What to Serve With Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce?

This pasta is rich and comforting on its own, but pairing it with lighter sides can help round out the meal. Here are a few great options:

Garlic Bread

It’s a classic for a reason. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for mopping up that cheesy sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A fresh, green contrast to the creamy pasta. Plus, it cooks quickly and adds nutrients to the meal.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, parmesan, and tangy dressing balance the richness of the cheese beautifully.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Slightly charred and caramelized sprouts bring a savory depth and earthy texture.

Caprese Salad

Tomato, basil, and mozzarella with a drizzle of balsamic—fresh and flavorful.

Grilled Zucchini or Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and grilled, these veggies add a smoky, savory bite to the plate.

Simple Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and crunchy, a chilled cucumber salad helps cut through the cheese with ease.

A Glass of White Wine

If you’re serving adults, something like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully.

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Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you—this pasta holds up well!

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of milk or pasta water while reheating brings it right back to life.
• Freezer: Technically, you can freeze it, but dairy-based sauces like this one can become grainy once thawed. If you must freeze, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Reheating tips: Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating over low heat to loosen the sauce. Stir gently and avoid microwaving too long, as this can dry out the chicken.

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Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind that exact values may vary depending on the brands and quantities you use, but here’s a general breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~38g
• Fat: ~27g
• Saturated Fat: ~13g
• Cholesterol: ~95mg
• Sodium: ~850mg
• Fiber: ~2g
• Sugar: ~4g

This is a rich, filling dish—so pair it with lighter sides or a salad if you’re looking to balance it out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just shred it and stir it in at the end to warm through. It’s a huge time-saver and still tastes amazing.

What if I don’t have Velveeta?

You can use cream cheese mixed with a bit of cheddar or American cheese. It won’t have that same ultra-creamy texture, but it’s a solid substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently with a splash of milk or pasta water to refresh the sauce.

Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?

You can use low-fat mozzarella, reduced-fat Velveeta, and skip the heavy cream. It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still be delicious.

Can I add vegetables to this?

Totally! Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or peas would all be great. Just cook them before mixing in.

What type of mozzarella should I use?

Use low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella for best results. Fresh mozzarella can work, but it melts differently and can make the sauce a bit watery.

Can I bake this pasta after assembling it?

Yes! Pour everything into a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Does this recipe work with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, just follow the cooking instructions on the gluten-free pasta package. Be extra careful not to overcook it.

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Conclusion

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Creamy Velveeta Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is exactly what you need. It’s rich, comforting, and completely satisfying—with just the right mix of creamy cheese, garlic, and tender chicken. It’s also incredibly versatile and easy to tweak based on what’s in your fridge. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy and cheesy, this one’s a keeper.

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