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Velveeta Chicken Rigatoni with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

A creamy and comforting dish featuring rigatoni pasta, chicken, and a velvety cheese sauce that brings family together.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Protein
  • 12 oz Rigatoni Pasta Look for quality brands like Barilla for firm pasta that holds the sauce well.
  • 2 cups Chicken Breast, cooked and diced Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for speed!
Cheeses
  • 8 oz Velveeta Cheese You can’t go wrong with the classic for that creamy factor.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded I recommend fresh mozzarella for superior melt.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the flavors beautifully; to save time, use jarred minced garlic.
  • 2 tbsp Butter, room temperature It helps create a rich base for the sauce.
  • 1 cup Milk Whole milk works best for creaminess, but discreetly swap in almond milk for a lighter version.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Always season to elevate the flavors!

Method
 

Cook the Rigatoni
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant (watch so it doesn’t burn).
Add the Creamy Ingredients
  1. Reduce the heat to low, and add the Velveeta cheese and milk. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
  2. Chef’s Tip: Keep your heat low; high heat can cause the cheese to clump.
Combine Everything
  1. Stir in the cooked rigatoni and diced chicken, mixing well to coat everything.
  2. Add the shredded mozzarella and stir until melted and incorporated.
Season to Taste
  1. Add salt and pepper to your liking. If you want some heat, sprinkle in some chili flakes here!
Serve
  1. Ladle the creamy concoction into bowls, and watch your family dive in.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. This dish can be assembled and refrigerated before baking. Just bake at 350°F until bubbly and heated through.