Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Tortellini and Velveeta Cheese Sauce

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This Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Tortellini and Velveeta Cheese Sauce is a rich, indulgent meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender strips of chicken, seasoned and cooked in garlic butter, are paired with soft tortellini smothered in a velvety Velveeta and Parmesan sauce. The combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting, restaurant-style dish that can be prepared in under 45 minutes.

The creamy sauce is the star here, made with Velveeta, cream cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream. A splash of chicken broth adds depth, while reserved pasta water helps achieve the perfect consistency. A hint of smoked paprika and red pepper flakes adds warmth and subtle heat, balancing the rich, cheesy flavors.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken:

  • 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Velveeta Tortellini Sauce:

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (for consistency)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Drizzle of garlic butter

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once done, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set tortellini aside. The reserved water will help thin the sauce if needed, giving the perfect creamy consistency.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Chicken

Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels, then season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 3: Make the Velveeta Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine with the pan drippings for added flavor. Gradually add the Velveeta and cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.

Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Slowly add reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce to your desired consistency, making it perfectly creamy without being too thick.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Chicken

Toss the cooked tortellini in the Velveeta cheese sauce until evenly coated. Return the garlic butter chicken to the skillet, gently folding it into the creamy pasta to combine flavors. Allow everything to warm together for a minute or two.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy tortellini topped with garlic butter chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a drizzle of garlic butter for a final touch of richness. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips and Variations

  • Cheese Options: If Velveeta is unavailable, substitute with a mix of mild cheddar and cream cheese for similar creaminess.
  • Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for color and flavor.
  • Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. For a smoky depth, add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce as well.
  • Pasta Choices: While tortellini works beautifully, you can also use ravioli or even large shells stuffed with cheese.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine just before serving. This is useful for meal prep or entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with:

  • A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
  • Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for sopping up extra sauce
  • Light steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus for balance

Storage and Reheating

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
  • Do not microwave for extended periods as the sauce may separate; short bursts and stirring work best.

Nutrition

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: ~930 kcal

This dish is rich and indulgent, perfect for a comforting dinner or a special weekend treat.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Tortellini and Velveeta Cheese Sauce is a decadent, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings restaurant-quality comfort to your home kitchen. The combination of tender garlic butter chicken, soft tortellini, and creamy cheese sauce makes each bite memorable. It is versatile, quick to prepare, and easy to adjust with vegetables, spices, or pasta choices to suit your taste.

Serve it garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a touch of elegance. Whether for a family dinner, date night, or casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy every palate.

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