Name: Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt & black pepper, to taste; 12 oz penne pasta; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups whole milk; 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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This creamy Velveeta chicken penne is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Tender pieces of chicken are cooked in garlic butter, tossed with penne pasta, and coated in a cheesy Velveeta Parmesan sauce that makes every bite indulgent.

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to make yet feels like a restaurant-style meal. The chicken is seasoned just right, the sauce is creamy and cheesy, and the pasta holds onto all that flavor perfectly. I also like that it’s family-friendly and doesn’t require fancy ingredients, making it an easy go-to for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the pasta and sauce:

12 oz penne pasta
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups whole milk
8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then I drain and set it aside.
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I season the chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. I remove the chicken and keep it warm.
In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. I whisk in the milk, letting it warm gently.
I stir in the Velveeta cubes until melted and smooth, then add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
I return the chicken to the skillet, toss in the pasta, and stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
I finish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. I usually have it ready in around 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but satisfying dinner.

Variations

I like to switch things up sometimes:

I use rotini or rigatoni instead of penne for a different texture.
I add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
I swap chicken for shrimp when I want a seafood twist.
I sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of Velveeta?

Yes, I sometimes use cream cheese or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I like to prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything right before serving.

What pasta works best?

I usually use penne, but any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or shells works well because they hold onto the sauce.

Can I make it lighter?

I sometimes use 2% milk and reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories without losing creaminess.

Does it freeze well?

I don’t recommend freezing because the sauce can separate, but it keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

This creamy Velveeta chicken penne in garlic butter Parmesan sauce is one of my favorite comfort meals. I like how easy it is to prepare, and I always enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors that bring everything together. It’s a dish I can rely on for a quick family dinner or even when I want to impress guests with something hearty and delicious.