Before diving into the details of this delightful dish, let’s talk pairings. Instant Pot Chicken Pasta is a great crowd-pleaser and can be complemented by various sides. You could serve it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette.
Want a bit of crunch? Add some garlic bread for that perfect, buttery touch. You can also whip up a side of steamed vegetables or roast some seasonal produce to balance the richness of the dish. Not into side dishes? Just pop open a bottle of red wine and toast to an easy, delicious dinner!
Ah, the Instant Pot. This gadget has changed the game in kitchens everywhere. What once took hours can now be done in mere minutes. I was skeptical at first. Could a simple kitchen device truly replace my beloved Dutch oven?
Luck was on my side when I stumbled upon the recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Pasta. This dish quickly became one of my favorites for weeknight dinners. It’s creamy, hearty, and satisfying — all while being relatively simple to prepare. So, grab your Instant Pot and let’s explore why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table!
What is Instant Pot Chicken Pasta?
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta is a one-pot meal featuring tender chicken pieces, pasta, and a deliciously creamy sauce, typically made with marinara, cream, and a touch of cheese. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed.
Using the Instant Pot means the flavors meld together beautifully, giving you a savory and comforting meal — one that’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.
Why This Recipe Works
The cooking process of the Instant Pot is what sets this recipe apart. The pressure cooking method seals in moisture, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and the pasta cooks perfectly.
You’ll notice that combining the chicken broth with marinara and heavy cream creates a rich, flavorful sauce. Plus, the Instant Pot allows for speedy cooking without sacrificing flavor, making this dish a busy cook’s dream.
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What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Let’s gather all the ingredients. The shopping list for this recipe is straightforward:
16 ounces of penne (or other similar pasta such as rigatoni or ziti)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups of chicken broth or water (more flavor will come from broth)
2 cups of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
¾ cup of heavy cream
½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup of freshly grated Mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon of salt
½ teaspoon of black pepper
2-3 tablespoons of fresh basil for garnish
½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for those who like a little heat)
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Pasta?
Let’s not leave you hanging — here’s a brief overview. This recipe combines sautéing and pressure cooking for optimal flavors. Expect a creamy sauce and tender chicken with perfectly cooked pasta that’s infused with all the savory goodness. Ready to dive into the details?
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it warm for about a minute. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken until it’s just browned, about 3-4 minutes. You don’t need to cook it through at this stage; it will finish cooking during pressure cooking.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Using a wooden spoon, scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is flavor you don’t want to waste! After that, stir in the Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Pour the dry pasta into the pot. Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid but don’t stir too much. This can help prevent it from sticking during the cooking process.
Step 5: Seal and Cook
Close the lid of your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Set the pot to cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. It will take some time to come to pressure, which is completely normal!
Step 6: Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully turn the valve to “Venting” and let out the steam.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the lid is removed, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and Mozzarella cheese. You’ll see the sauce come together beautifully. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add more chicken broth at this point.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with fresh basil and, if desired, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with gusto!
Tips for Making Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Pasta
Don’t skip the sauté: Browning the onions and chicken adds depth to the flavor.
Use quality ingredients: The better your broth and marinara, the better your final dish.
Mind the cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
Adjust the cook time: For whole-wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta, you may need to adjust the cook time slightly.
Make it your own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the pot for extra nutrition.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual portions. Just be sure to let it cool before putting it in freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
Calories: 568
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Sodium: 950mg
Recommended Serving Suggestions
When serving Instant Pot Chicken Pasta, consider these options:
With Garlic Bread: Nothing complements pasta quite like garlic bread. Toast slices of baguette and slather them with garlic butter. The crispy, warm bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
Add a Side Salad: A fresh side salad can balance out the richness of the pasta. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can add color and fiber. Drizzle with olive oil and roast them in the oven while your pasta is cooking.
Pair with Wine: To elevate your meal further, consider a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese could enhance the flavors of your dish.
What Alternatives Can You Use for Ingredients If Not Available?
Here are some substitutes you can use if you’re missing key ingredients:
Pasta: If you don’t have penne, any short pasta will work; rotini or fusilli will give you the same delicious bite.
Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a tangy twist.
Chicken: If you’re not a fan of chicken breast, try thighs for more flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Cheese: In place of Parmesan and Mozzarella, consider feta cheese for a different flavor profile; it crumbles nicely on top.
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 16 ounces of penne or other similar pasta such as rigatoni or ziti
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups of chicken broth or water more flavor will come from broth
- 2 cups of marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- ¾ cup of heavy cream
- ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup of freshly grated Mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons of fresh basil for garnish
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes optional, for those who like a little heat
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it warm for about a minute. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken until it’s just browned, about 3-4 minutes. You don’t need to cook it through at this stage; it will finish cooking during pressure cooking.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
- Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Using a wooden spoon, scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is flavor you don’t want to waste! After that, stir in the Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
- Pour the dry pasta into the pot. Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid but don’t stir too much. This can help prevent it from sticking during the cooking process.
Step 5: Seal and Cook
- Close the lid of your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Set the pot to cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. It will take some time to come to pressure, which is completely normal!
Step 6: Release the Pressure
- Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully turn the valve to “Venting” and let out the steam.
Step 7: Add Cream and Cheese
- Once the lid is removed, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and Mozzarella cheese. You’ll see the sauce come together beautifully. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add more chicken broth at this point.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Finish off with fresh basil and, if desired, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with gusto!
Notes
- Don’t skip the sauté: Browning the onions and chicken adds depth to the flavor.
- Use quality ingredients: The better your broth and marinara, the better your final dish.
- Mind the cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
- Adjust the cook time: For whole-wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta, you may need to adjust the cook time slightly.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the pot for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time to 10-12 minutes and allow the pot to come to pressure for a bit longer. Always ensure it’s cooked through.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth. This will still provide a hearty pasta experience without the meat.
What is the best marinara sauce to use?
Homemade is best if you have the time. However, any store-bought brand with natural ingredients will work well. Look for low-sugar options for a healthier choice.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be cautious with the cooking time. It may stay under pressure a bit longer due to the increased volume.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy cheese and tender chicken appeal to most kids. You could even sneak in extra veggies chopped finely.
What can I do with leftover sauce?
It can be saved for later. Use it as a dip for breadsticks, toppings for pizza, or mix it with other dishes to create a new meal.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that ticks all the boxes: it’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking method, you can serve an impressive meal any night of the week.
Whether you follow the recipe exactly or make adjustments to suit your taste, this dish has the potential to become a beloved staple in your home. So why not give this one-pot wonder a try? You might just find a new family favorite! Happy cooking!
