Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

If you’re craving a warm, indulgent pasta dish packed with creamy cheese, juicy chicken, and a garlic-infused sauce, this Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni is the recipe you’ve been searching for. Loaded with two types of cheese, hearty rigatoni, and a velvety garlic cream sauce, it’s a comfort food classic that delivers restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cheesy Chicken Rigatoni

This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The Velveeta melts seamlessly into the cream to create a smooth, rich base, while the mozzarella adds stretchy, gooey texture that clings to every piece of rigatoni. Toss in shredded chicken, a touch of Italian seasoning, and a generous dose of garlic, and you’ve got a pasta dinner that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or just indulging in a cozy night at home, this dish delivers bold flavor and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta & Protein:

• 12 oz rigatoni pasta – the perfect pasta shape for catching creamy sauce
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed – rotisserie chicken works great!

Cheese & Dairy:

• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed – the key to creamy, melty goodness
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that perfect cheese pull
• 1½ cups heavy cream – adds richness and body to the sauce
• 2 tbsp butter – for sautéing garlic and building flavor

Aromatics & Seasoning:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic heart of the sauce
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that enhances the sauce
• Salt & pepper, to taste – to round out all the flavors
• Fresh parsley, chopped – optional garnish for freshness and color

How to Make Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

💡 Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue to soften once combined with the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Create the Velveeta Cream Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and heat until it begins to simmer. Add cubed Velveeta cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Stir in the cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the creamy base.

Step 5: Melt in Mozzarella

Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and stir until it melts completely into the sauce, making it even thicker and cheesier.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

Add the drained rigatoni pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the cheesy sauce. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to allow the sauce to cling to the pasta.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the cheesy rigatoni onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and fresh.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
• Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast
• A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• This dish is not freezer-friendly due to the high dairy content, which may cause separation when thawed.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Protein Swap: Use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even shrimp.
• Cheese Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère for depth.

Why Velveeta Makes It So Creamy

Velveeta is specifically designed to melt smoothly, creating a silky and lump-free sauce. When paired with mozzarella and heavy cream, the result is a thick, clingy, and utterly luscious cheese sauce that’s hard to beat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is the ultimate in cozy, cheesy, crave-worthy dinners. It comes together in under 40 minutes and is packed with flavor, texture, and rich cheesy goodness. Perfect for families, potlucks, or any night you’re craving comfort food with flair.

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