When I need a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and effortless, I always turn to this Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. It’s rich, savory, and comes together in a way that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen without breaking a sweat. I love how the bowtie pasta soaks up every bit of the velvety cheese sauce, and the perfectly seasoned chicken adds just the right amount of smoky flavor to balance out the creaminess.

This dish was born out of one of those “what can I throw together quickly?” nights, and it’s since become a go-to dinner idea in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just want a hearty plate of food at the end of a long day, this combination of Velveeta, garlic, and mozzarella makes the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s one of those easy recipes that’s nearly impossible to mess up.

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

This recipe checks all the boxes: comforting, cheesy, quick, and flavorful. You get juicy, golden chicken bites coated in a simple seasoning blend, paired with buttery bowtie pasta drenched in a creamy cheese sauce that’s packed with garlic and melty mozzarella. The Velveeta brings that signature smooth texture, making the sauce cling to every noodle. Whether you need a new dinner idea, a meal prep star, or a simple crowd-pleasing dish, this is one of those food ideas you’ll come back to again and again.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For this recipe, I go with bowtie pasta (farfalle) because it holds the sauce beautifully and adds a bit of elegance to the dish. The shape gives just enough surface area for that rich Velveeta garlic mozzarella sauce to cling to every curve. However, you’re not locked into bowtie pasta—penne, rotini, or even rigatoni would work if that’s what you have on hand. Just aim for something with ridges or shape so the sauce has a good grip.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of Velveeta or prefer something else, don’t worry. Cream cheese and shredded cheddar can give a similar creamy, cheesy texture—though Velveeta is unmatched for smoothness. For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp or turkey sausage for a tasty twist. And for a vegetarian option, roasted broccoli or mushrooms can step in as a flavorful alternative to meat.

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

Chicken Breast
Lean, juicy, and easy to season—this is the protein base of the recipe. It sears up beautifully and pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
Its unique shape holds onto the sauce well and gives the dish a fun, elegant look. It’s also sturdy enough to mix with chunky chicken bites.

Velveeta Cheese
The heart of the creamy sauce—Velveeta melts into a smooth, velvety texture that coats the pasta effortlessly.

Mozzarella Cheese
Adds a gooey, stretchy texture to the sauce and brings a mild richness that complements the sharpness of the garlic.

Garlic (Minced or Freshly Crushed)
Brings bold, aromatic depth to the sauce, enhancing both the cheese and chicken flavors.

Butter
Used to sauté the garlic and form the base of the cheese sauce, adding richness and silkiness.

Heavy Cream
Creates the luscious, creamy consistency of the sauce and balances out the cheeses.

Olive Oil
Used for searing the chicken, giving it a golden crust while locking in moisture.

Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt & Pepper
This seasoning mix gives the chicken a bold, flavorful crust and a hint of smokiness.

Parsley (Fresh or Dried)
Sprinkled on top for a fresh, herby finish and a pop of color.

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces for about 4–5 minutes per side until they’re golden and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, then add the Velveeta and mozzarella cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir well to coat every piece. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a little more cream. Add the chicken back into the pan or serve it on the side, depending on your presentation preference.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve hot, ideally right away, while the sauce is extra creamy and the chicken is juicy.

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

This entire dish comes together in about 35 to 40 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Chicken prep and cook time: 15 minutes
Pasta boiling time: 10 minutes (done simultaneously)
Sauce preparation: 10 minutes
Assembly and finishing: 5 minutes

It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to serve for guests or a cozy Sunday meal.

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

Cut the chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly—no dry bites.
Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente so it holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.
Stir the cheese sauce continuously while melting to avoid clumps or burning.
Use freshly minced garlic for the boldest flavor—it makes a difference.
Save some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed—it’s starchy and helps bind everything together.
Add the mozzarella last after Velveeta melts to keep the sauce extra smooth and stretchy.
Taste as you go—especially the sauce. You can always add more garlic, salt, or cheese to your liking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using cold cream straight from the fridge: It can cause the cheese to seize up. Let it sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before adding to the pan.
Overcooking the chicken: It becomes dry and rubbery fast. Cook just until golden and no longer pink inside.
Skipping the pasta water: This starchy liquid is gold when your sauce feels too thick or sticky—it helps everything blend smoothly.
Adding mozzarella too soon: It can clump if added before the Velveeta is fully melted. Let the sauce base smooth out first.
Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings: Garlic and salt levels can vary based on your ingredients—trust your tastebuds before serving.

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

Simple Garden Salad

A fresh mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheesy sauce.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

The perfect vehicle to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate—bonus points if it’s homemade!

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

These crisp, slightly bitter veggies add a nice contrast and lighten up the meal.

Lemon-Parmesan Green Beans

Tossed with a squeeze of lemon and grated parmesan, these add brightness without clashing with the main dish.

Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices

A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate between bites.

Light White Wine (like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)

If you’re pairing with wine, go for something that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

Mixed Berry Side Salad

For a sweet-savory balance, a fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, and a honey-lime dressing works beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? This pasta holds up surprisingly well for next-day lunches or easy reheats.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving to bring back the creaminess. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between, to avoid overheating the cheese.
Freezer: You can freeze it, but I don’t recommend it. The texture of the cheese sauce may become grainy once thawed and reheated. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 6 servings total)

Calories: ~620
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 940mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Keep in mind that values may vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have Velveeta?

You can substitute Velveeta with a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a similarly creamy texture. It won’t be quite as smooth but still delicious.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything a few hours ahead. Just store the sauce and pasta separately and reheat gently with a bit of cream or milk before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred or cube it and add it during the final mixing stage. It cuts down your cook time even more.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! But if you like heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?

Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work just as well—just aim for a type that holds sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your cheeses and seasoning blends are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?

Add the mozzarella slowly and only after the Velveeta has completely melted. Stir continuously and keep the heat low to medium.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, it doubles easily! Just use a large enough skillet or pot to stir everything together without crowding.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is everything you want in a comfort meal—cheesy, creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you need a quick dinner idea, a satisfying weekend indulgence, or just something that everyone at the table will love, this dish has you covered. It’s flexible, fuss-free, and totally irresistible. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation.