Creamy Velveeta Chicken Linguine with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce
When it comes to cozy comfort food, few dishes compare to the rich, creamy, and satisfying flavor of Creamy Velveeta Chicken Linguine with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce. This pasta recipe combines tender chicken, al dente linguine, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce that blends Velveeta with mozzarella and garlic. The result? A hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, this recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a lifesaver when you want something that’s both quick and impressive. If you love cheesy pasta dishes with a touch of garlicky richness, this Velveeta chicken linguine is destined to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients
To make this irresistible dish, you’ll need:
- 12 ounces linguine
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown on the outside and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Build the Garlic Base
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the cubed Velveeta and whisk until it’s completely melted and smooth. Next, add the shredded mozzarella and stir until the sauce becomes rich, velvety, and creamy.
5. Combine Everything
Slice or cube the cooked chicken, then return it to the skillet. Add the drained linguine and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the mozzarella garlic sauce. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the gooey, cheesy comfort in every bite.
About the Recipe
This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Linguine with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce brings together the best of two worlds: the smooth meltability of Velveeta and the stretchy, indulgent texture of mozzarella. Together, they create a sauce that clings perfectly to linguine and pairs beautifully with juicy chicken.
Variations to Try
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp, Italian sausage, or even mushrooms instead of chicken for a fun twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, broccoli florets, or roasted red peppers to make it more wholesome.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning to turn up the heat.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh garlic rather than garlic powder for a bold, authentic flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking slightly when tossed in the hot sauce.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking chicken: This can make it dry. Sear it until just cooked through for juicy bites.
- Burning garlic: Garlic cooks quickly—30 seconds is enough. Burnt garlic will give the sauce a bitter taste.
- Skipping salt: Velveeta and mozzarella are salty, but don’t forget to season the pasta water and sauce to balance flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy richness perfectly.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving contains about 620 calories with 35 grams of protein, making this a filling and satisfying dinner. The combination of carbohydrates from pasta, protein from chicken, and fat from cheese and cream creates a well-rounded meal that fuels both body and soul.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cheesy, creamy, and comforting pasta recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Linguine with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce will quickly become a family favorite. It’s versatile, flavorful, and indulgent without being complicated.
So next time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a cozy dinner, grab some Velveeta, mozzarella, and linguine—you’ll have a pasta dish that’s impossible to resist. Don’t forget to share your version and let others know how you made it your own!
