Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Few things say “comfort food” like a steaming plate of creamy fettuccine topped with golden, spiced chicken. This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce is a weeknight hero—quick, rich, and wildly satisfying. The sauce wraps every ribbon of fettuccine in a silky embrace, while the pan-seared chicken adds boldness and bite. It’s a one-skillet wonder that tastes like it came straight from a cozy trattoria.

Velveeta is the game-changer here. It melts like a dream and brings unmatched creaminess that clings to every noodle. Toss in a kick of garlic, a handful of fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of paprika on the chicken, and you’re looking at an ultra-creamy dinner that’s decadent but doable on a busy night.

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What Kind of Fettuccine Should I Use?

You can use either fresh or dried fettuccine—both work beautifully. Fresh pasta cooks quicker and has a tender bite, while dried pasta holds up well to the richness of the sauce. Choose what you have on hand. Just be sure not to overcook it; al dente noodles are best for soaking up all that creamy garlic cheese sauce without turning mushy.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Fettuccine Pasta
The hearty base that holds the sauce perfectly in its folds. You want something with texture to balance the creaminess.

Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless)
Juicy, tender, and perfect for seasoning. Pan-seared until golden for maximum flavor.

Velveeta Cheese
This gives the dish its signature silky creaminess. Melts easily and adds nostalgic cheesy flavor.

Heavy Cream
For extra richness and to help create a smooth, velvety sauce.

Garlic (minced)
Brightens up the richness with sharp, aromatic flavor.

Butter
Used to cook the garlic and start the sauce base. Adds a lush depth to the dish.

Paprika, Salt & Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing warmth to the entire dish.

Fresh Parsley
For a final fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.

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How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil or a bit of butter, and sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Fettuccine

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a light simmer. Gradually add cubes of Velveeta cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the sauce. Toss to coat, using the reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Bring it All Together

Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the pasta. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can marry. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine

This dish is at its best straight off the stove while the sauce is creamy and the chicken is juicy. Serve it in shallow pasta bowls with a sprinkle of extra parsley and freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with warm garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. It’s not freezer-friendly due to the cheese sauce separating upon thawing, so enjoy it fresh when possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when making the garlic cheese sauce. You can also season the chicken with a bit of cayenne for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While fettuccine works beautifully, linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne can be used. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

What can I use instead of Velveeta?

If you prefer something less processed, try shredded cheddar mixed with cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just note, the sauce won’t be as silky smooth as with Velveeta.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, toss it in at the end just to warm through. It saves time and still tastes great.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms pair wonderfully with this dish. Just cook them in the skillet before adding the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Use your reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Add a tablespoon at a time until you get the perfect creamy texture.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce, you’ll definitely want to try these other creamy, cozy dishes:

• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for a hearty beefy alternative.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving something rich with a ricotta twist.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine to brighten up your pasta night.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for that ultra-cheesy, kid-approved meal.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli when you want a veggie-packed pasta with a cheesy touch.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it fast when comfort food cravings hit: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

And if you give this dish a try, don’t be shy—leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! Did you spice it up? Swap in another pasta? Add some veggies?

I always love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Let’s keep the kitchen creative!

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