Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy, and easy-to-make meal, this Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to whip up in no time! This quick and tasty recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and your family will absolutely love it. Whether you are a fan of Italian cuisine or simply enjoy creamy pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites!
Introduction
The Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fusion of Italian flavors and modern cooking convenience. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, all prepared in the Instant Pot. This one-pot meal is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick dinner solution that doesn’t compromise on taste. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy, cutting down on cooking time while still delivering rich, comforting flavors. If you love creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo or Carbonara, this recipe is definitely a must-try!
For more information about pressure cooker recipes or to explore variations of creamy pasta dishes, check out this guide on quick pasta recipes.
Ingredients
To prepare this mouth-watering Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion (or shallot), finely chopped
- 16 oz (450g) pasta of your choice (penne or rotini work well)
- 3 cups (0.75 L) chicken stock
- 1.5 oz (45g) unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream
- 2 oz (50g) cream cheese
- 3 oz (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped basil for garnish
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Substitutions:
- If you’re lactose intolerant, you can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
- To make it gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta option.
For more alternative ingredient suggestions, check out our related recipes for gluten-free pasta lovers.
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Combine all the seasoning ingredients (salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika) and season the diced chicken breast pieces. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Saute the Chicken and Onion
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the SAUTE function. Adjust to high and add the olive oil. Once heated, quickly saute the chicken on all sides until lightly golden. Add the finely chopped onion (or shallot) and continue to saute until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Pasta
Turn OFF the SAUTE function and pour a bit of chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. This step ensures that your dish won’t have a “burn” notice. Add the pasta and remaining chicken stock, giving everything a good stir to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Cover with the lid and lock it into its position. Turn the vent to the SEALING position. Press the MANUAL button (or Pressure Cook) and adjust the time to 3 minutes. When cooking is finished, quick release the pressure.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Open the lid and stir in the butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately.
For more on how to perfect your pressure cooking skills, visit this detailed pressure cooker guide.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess. Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as well.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen it up.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Brown the chicken: This step helps build a deeper flavor before pressure cooking.
- Deglaze the pot: Always scrape the bottom of the pot after sauteing to prevent a burn notice.
- Choose the right pasta: Short, sturdy pasta like penne or rotini works best for this dish, as it holds up well during pressure cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta dish pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread or homemade focaccia
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
For a complete meal, serve with a crisp glass of white wine or a sparkling lemonade.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 35g
Storage and Leftovers
- To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen the sauce.
- To Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can, but you’ll need to increase the pressure cooking time to 6 minutes. - What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal for this recipe. - How do I avoid a “burn” notice?
Ensure you deglaze the pot properly and add enough liquid to prevent sticking. - Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when adding the pasta.
Related Recipes for Instant Pot Creamy Pasta Lovers
Conclusion
We hope you give this Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a try! It’s a delightful meal that combines the ease of one-pot cooking with the irresistible flavors of creamy garlic and Parmesan. Leave us a comment below and let us know how it turned out for you. What other variations did you try? Enjoy!
PrintInstant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Description
Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy, and easy-to-make meal, this Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to whip up in no time! This quick and tasty recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and your family will absolutely love it. Whether you are a fan of Italian cuisine or simply enjoy creamy pasta dishes, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion (or shallot), finely chopped
- 16 oz (450g) pasta of your choice (penne or rotini work well)
- 3 cups (0.75 L) chicken stock
- 1.5 oz (45g) unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cup (180 ml) heavy cream
- 2 oz (50g) cream cheese
- 3 oz (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped basil for garnish
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Substitutions:
- If you’re lactose intolerant, you can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
- To make it gluten-free, choose a gluten-free pasta option.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Combine all the seasoning ingredients (salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika) and season the diced chicken breast pieces. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Saute the Chicken and Onion
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the SAUTE function. Adjust to high and add the olive oil. Once heated, quickly saute the chicken on all sides until lightly golden. Add the finely chopped onion (or shallot) and continue to saute until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Pasta
Turn OFF the SAUTE function and pour a bit of chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. This step ensures that your dish won’t have a “burn” notice. Add the pasta and remaining chicken stock, giving everything a good stir to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Cover with the lid and lock it into its position. Turn the vent to the SEALING position. Press the MANUAL button (or Pressure Cook) and adjust the time to 3 minutes. When cooking is finished, quick release the pressure.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Open the lid and stir in the butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess. Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as well.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken stock to loosen it up.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.