Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken Pasta
This Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken Pasta is a quick, comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 8 ounces penne or any pasta of your choice uncooked
- 1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy alternative
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil.
- Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic in the last minute of sautéing to release its aroma.
- Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and prevent any burn notice.
- Add the uncooked pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Do not stir the pasta after adding it to avoid sticking.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir the pasta and chicken mixture.
- Add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and thick.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Scoop the cheesy chicken pasta into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Notes
Use chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference; thighs will provide extra juiciness. Be sure to deglaze the pot well after sautéing the chicken to prevent the burn warning on your Instant Pot. Do not stir the pasta after adding it to the liquid to avoid clumping. For a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing. Use full-fat cheeses and cream for extra creaminess. Let the dish rest a few minutes after cooking to thicken the sauce further. Use fresh herbs at the end to add brightness and flavor. Variations include adding vegetables, swapping cheeses, adding heat, using dairy-free alternatives, or changing protein or pasta types.