Creamy Velveeta Rotini with Seared Garlic Chicken
Creamy Velveeta Rotini with Seared Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and al dente rotini pasta into one comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and promises to win over both kids and adults alike. The rich flavors of Velveeta cheese blend seamlessly with the savory notes of garlic and Cajun seasoning, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every twist of rotini. With just one skillet required, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side salad or warm bread for a satisfying dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (16 ounce) package rotini pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (32 ounce) block Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces along with minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Sear until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add rotini pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente and most broth is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low: Add cubed Velveeta cheese and heavy cream. Stir constantly until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Return seared garlic chicken to the skillet: Stir gently to combine everything well. Add shredded cheddar cheese; stir until melted and incorporated. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg