Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Cheesy Garlic Chicken with Twisted Pasta in Velveeta Cream Sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, featuring tender chicken and twisted pasta enveloped in a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor. With a hint of Cajun seasoning and garlic, every bite is a savory experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy the ease of a one-pot meal that promises minimal cleanup while maximizing taste!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli or fusilli)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Cook the twisted pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 9-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a bowl, toss cubed chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned (6-8 minutes); set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted. Add mozzarella and Parmesan; mix well.
- Combine cooked pasta and seared chicken into the sauce; toss gently to coat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. Adjust seasonings based on personal preference to elevate flavors further.