The Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This creamy pasta brings together tender chicken and a rich cheese sauce that will satisfy your cravings. With its blend of flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, creamy cheese, and Cajun seasoning creates a mouthwatering explosion of taste.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness of this pasta.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy delicious leftovers that are just as good the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment can make preparing your creamy garlic chicken rotini much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spoon
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
• Colander: Allows for easy draining of pasta while retaining its shape.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz rotini pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 7-9 minutes, turning occasionally until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer before adding Velveeta cubes. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is thick, glossy, and coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss in the cooked rotini, gently folding it to coat every twist in the creamy cheese sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier texture.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the creamy rotini topped or plated beside the garlic Cajun chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

Serving Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce can elevate your meal experience. Pairing this delightful dish with the right accompaniments will enhance its flavors and presentation.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the rotini.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.

For a Special Occasion

• Wine Pairing – While wine is not included in the recipe, consider serving a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage or fruit-infused water for a festive touch.
• Cheese Platter – Present a small cheese board with assorted cheeses that complement the flavors of the dish.
• Dessert – End your meal with a light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad to cleanse the palate.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

To achieve the best results when preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and quality cheeses will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Ensure you cook the rotini until just al dente so it holds up well when tossed in the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually helps achieve the perfect balance without overpowering flavors.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce – Allow your sauce to simmer gently for better consistency and flavor development.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Adding reserved pasta water can adjust the sauce’s creaminess if it becomes too thick after combining.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

Complement your meal with delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds crunch and nutrients, making it an excellent counterpoint to creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a refreshing side that enhances your meal.
4. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a hearty side that complements your main dish beautifully.
5. Sautéed Spinach – Quick-cooked spinach adds vibrant color and is packed with vitamins, making it an easy healthy choice.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a fun, summery side that pairs well with creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce turns out perfectly, steer clear of these common pitfalls.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking rotini for too long can result in mushy pasta. Aim for al dente, which is firm yet tender, typically around 9-10 minutes.
• Not seasoning the chicken enough: Under-seasoned chicken can lead to bland flavors. Use Cajun seasoning generously and adjust salt and pepper to enhance taste.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This water helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Always keep some aside before draining the pasta for a silkier texture.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Dumping all the cheese at once can lead to clumps. Gradually stir in cheeses while maintaining a gentle heat for a smooth sauce.
• Neglecting to garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this simple finishing touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning it out for easier reheating later.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.

What other proteins work well in this recipe?

Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef according to your preference.

How do I add more vegetables to Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce?

Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Is there a vegan version of Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce?

You can replace chicken with plant-based protein and use dairy-free cheese alternatives along with coconut cream.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different proteins. Enjoy every creamy bite!

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Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Garlic Chicken Rotini with Parmesan Velveeta Sauce. This delightful dish combines tender chicken and rotini pasta in a luscious cheese sauce, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 6 oz Velveeta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add rotini, and cook until al dente (9-10 mins). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Prepare chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden-brown (7-9 mins). Remove from skillet.
3. Make sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat, melt butter, sauté minced garlic for 1 min. Stir in heavy cream and milk; simmer before adding Velveeta. Mix until smooth.
4. Add cheeses: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine: Toss cooked rotini into the sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve: Plate the creamy rotini beside the garlic Cajun chicken and garnish with parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 335g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 870mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider throwing in some spinach or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef for different protein options.