If you are craving something rich, comforting, and downright satisfying, look no further than the Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a velvety blend of Velveeta and mozzarella cheeses in a luscious sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and promises to become a beloved weeknight favorite for your family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a special role in creating the delightful texture, creamy consistency, and balanced flavors that define this dish.
- 8 ounces Spaghetti: The perfect base to carry all that creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (Cubed): This cheese melts perfectly into a smooth, indulgent sauce without separating.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): Adds a stretchy, melty texture and mild flavor that complements the Velveeta.
- 1 cup Milk or Cream: Provides richness and helps create that irresistibly silky sauce.
- 3 tablespoons Butter (For sautéing garlic): Builds a fragrant, flavorful base and adds richness.
- 3-4 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a warm, savory aroma.
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Cubed or shredded, rotisserie preferred): Adds hearty protein and lovely texture.
- 1 tablespoon Parsley or Italian Seasoning: Brightens and balances the richness with a fresh herbal touch.
- Salt and Pepper (To taste): Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor component.
How to Make Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Perfectly
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is crucial because salting the water seasons the pasta from within. Add the spaghetti and cook it until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the package instructions. The pasta should hold a slight bite to complement the creamy sauce perfectly. Once done, drain and set aside so it’s ready to join the magic of the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Season your pre-cooked chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté it in the skillet for 5-7 minutes until it’s warmed through and has a light golden color. This step awakens the flavor of the chicken and adds some savory depth. Once cooked, remove the chicken and keep it warm for later.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Use the same skillet to melt butter over medium heat. Add freshly minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until the kitchen fills with that aromatic, mouthwatering scent. This garlic butter forms the rich foundation your sauce will build upon, so don’t rush this step.
Step 4: Melt the Velveeta and Blend Mozzarella
Slowly pour in the milk or cream and stir to combine. Let it warm gently for another 1-2 minutes before adding the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir continuously until the Velveeta is fully melted and smooth. Then, mix in the shredded mozzarella until the sauce turns lusciously creamy and slightly stretchy—a texture that is pure comfort in a spoonful.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the drained spaghetti back into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every strand evenly with the creamy cheese sauce. Let it heat together for 2-3 minutes on low heat so the flavors have a chance to marry. Next, fold in the cooked chicken and mix thoroughly. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional mozzarella on top and let it melt while the dish rests on low heat. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley or Italian seasoning brightens everything up just before serving.
How to Serve Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are wonderful garnishes adding a burst of color and fresh flavor. You can also sprinkle a little crushed red pepper or some grated Parmesan for a more layered taste. The contrast between creamy cheese and fresh herbs is simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to balance the richness with some freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls work perfectly to scoop up every last bit of sauce, turning your meal into a full-on feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, bake this creamy chicken spaghetti in a casserole dish topped with extra mozzarella until golden and bubbly. Serving in colorful bowls or rustic cast iron skillets also adds cozy charm. No matter how you present it, this Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining much of its creamy charm. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to keep the sauce texture intact.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and label them so you can enjoy it later without fuss. When frozen, the sauce might firm up, but reheating gently helps it return to that dreamy, creamy state.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of milk or cream helps restore the sauce’s original creamy texture. Avoid high heat which can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use shredded chicken instead of cubed?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken works wonderfully and often blends even better with the sauce, giving you those bite-sized pockets of tender chicken throughout the dish.
Is Velveeta necessary or can I substitute it?
Velveeta is key for that smooth, creamy texture that melts perfectly, but if you don’t have it, processed cheese alternatives or a combination of cream cheese and cheddar can work, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables to keep it hearty and flavorful without meat.
What kind of pasta can I use instead of spaghetti?
Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta shape that holds sauce well can be great alternatives if you want to switch things up or don’t have spaghetti on hand.
How do I make this dish less rich?
Use milk instead of cream to lighten the sauce and reduce the butter slightly. You can also add steamed vegetables for more texture and balance without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating friends, it’s a dish that feels like home and heaven all at once. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite creamy pasta creation!
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Indulgent Creamy Velveeta Chicken Spaghetti with Mozzarella Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This indulgent creamy Velveeta chicken spaghetti with mozzarella sauce is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender cooked chicken, gooey Velveeta cheese, and melted mozzarella in a luscious creamy sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a deliciously cheesy meal perfect for family dinners or when craving a hearty pasta dish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces Spaghetti
Cheeses and Dairy
- 8 ounces Velveeta Cheese (Cubed)
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded)
- 1 cup Milk or Cream
Protein
- 2 cups Cooked Chicken (Cubed or shredded, rotisserie preferred)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Butter (For sautéing garlic)
- 3–4 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced)
- 1 tablespoon Parsley or Italian Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper (To taste)
Instructions
- Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and heated through. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Make cheese sauce: Pour in milk or cream and stir to combine for 1-2 minutes. Add cubed Velveeta cheese and stir continuously until melted. Then mix in shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained spaghetti back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly and stir for 2-3 minutes over low heat to warm through.
- Add chicken and finish: Fold the cooked chicken into the pasta, mixing well. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top to melt slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or Italian seasoning before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken.
- Adjust milk or cream quantity for thicker or thinner sauce consistency.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper should be adjusted to taste.
- Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.
- This dish is best served hot and fresh.
