Spicy Garlic Chicken Penne in Velveeta Alfredo
Spicy Garlic Chicken Penne in Velveeta Alfredo is a tantalizing pasta dish that combines tender chicken with fragrant garlic and a lusciously creamy cheese sauce. This easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The alluring blend of Cajun spices and rich cheeses creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether served as a main course or enjoyed as leftovers, this dish is versatile and kid-friendly, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions using chicken broth instead of water. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of broth.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (6-8 minutes).
- Lower the heat to medium and mix in the cooked penne pasta along with Velveeta cheese, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and reserved chicken broth as needed until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg