Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

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Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the kind of comfort food that makes you pause after the first bite. The creamy, velvety cheese sauce wraps around every rigatoni tube, while the juicy, golden-seared chicken packs in a smoky, savory punch. It’s the perfect mix of indulgent and satisfying, especially when you need a hearty dinner that delivers on flavor and warmth.

What makes this dish extra special is the garlic mozzarella sauce that flows like a dream over the pasta. It balances the richness of Velveeta with the gooey stretch of mozzarella and the aromatic edge of garlic. Each forkful brings together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—and you may not want to share.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rigatoni is the ideal choice for this recipe because its large tubes and ridged surface are perfect for capturing every drop of that cheesy, garlicky sauce. You want a pasta that can hold its own against hearty chunks of chicken and cling to the thick, creamy mixture. While you could swap in penne or ziti in a pinch, rigatoni truly maximizes the experience.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Chicken Thighs
These provide the juiciest, most flavorful base. Their slightly higher fat content gives a richer result than chicken breast.

Rigatoni Pasta
With its wide hollow shape, rigatoni holds onto all that luscious sauce, making every bite count.

Velveeta Cheese
The ultimate melty cheese that gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and nostalgic flavor.

Shredded Mozzarella
Adds that perfect cheese pull and balances the sauce with a gooey stretch.

Heavy Cream
To help smooth and enrich the cheese sauce without overpowering it.

Garlic (Fresh or Roasted)
Garlic gives the sauce its savory backbone. Roasted garlic adds a mellow, sweet depth.

Butter
Used to sear the chicken and start the sauce base, it infuses everything with a golden richness.

Parsley
Freshly chopped parsley adds a clean, herbal finish that keeps the richness in check.

Salt, Pepper, Smoked Paprika
These basic seasonings are essential for flavoring the chicken and sauce.

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How To Make the Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Let the chicken rest before slicing it into thick, juicy pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Rigatoni

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in cubed Velveeta and shredded mozzarella, letting it melt into a smooth, rich sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat every piece of pasta evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

Top the saucy rigatoni with the sliced chicken and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot with extra mozzarella or a touch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.

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How to Serve and Store This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni

Serve this dish immediately after assembling for the creamiest texture. Pair it with a light salad or steamed green veggies to contrast the richness. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s smoothness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works too, but be cautious not to overcook it. Thighs give better juiciness and flavor.

What can I use instead of Velveeta?

You can substitute Velveeta with cream cheese or a mix of cheddar and American cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh and reheat the sauce with a bit of cream when ready to serve.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in portions. The sauce may separate a bit upon reheating, so stir well and reheat slowly.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas to give it a fresh twist and a bit of green.

What other pasta shapes can I use?

Penne, ziti, or even shells will work if you don’t have rigatoni on hand. Just make sure it’s a shape that holds sauce well.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cheesy Twist?

If you love this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni, check out more creamy, comforting recipes:

• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Linguine
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta

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I’d love to hear your spin. Tag me in your kitchen creations or drop your tips—let’s inspire each other with bold, cheesy meals.

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