Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful, garlicky, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken and pasta in a luscious creamy sauce, making it a standout recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting friends or preparing a quick dinner after a long day, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can prepare this meal in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and creamy cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, saving you time on both cooking and cleaning.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to suit your family’s tastes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker not only speeds up cooking but also infuses flavors beautifully while keeping everything moist.
• Cutting Board & Knife: These are vital for preparing all your ingredients quickly and safely.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that the flavors balance perfectly.

Ingredients

For this delicious Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound uncooked cavatappi pasta
• 1¼ cups heavy cream
• 3 ounces cream cheese
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to ‘sauté’ mode. Once hot, add the olive oil.
1. Add the cubed chicken into the pot.
2. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until the chicken starts to brown—about 3–4 minutes per side.

Step 2: Add Broth and Pasta

Press the ‘cancel’ button on the Instant Pot.
1. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth.
2. Add uncooked cavatappi pasta to the pot and stir well.
3. Cover the pot, lock it into position, and ensure the valve is set to ‘sealing’.
4. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Note that it will take about 15 minutes for the pot to come to pressure.

Step 3: Release Pressure and Stir in Cream

When the timer goes off, turn off the Instant Pot and perform a quick release of pressure by carefully moving the valve to venting.
1. Once safe, remove the lid from the pot.
2. Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Adjust seasonings as needed. Allow it to sit for several minutes to thicken before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Serving Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience! This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its creamy, garlicky flavor. Here are some great serving suggestions to consider.

With a Fresh Garden Salad

• A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers can balance the richness of the pasta.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds an extra layer of flavor and richness to each bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top brightens the dish and adds a fresh taste.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and makes the meal feel complete.

Served with Grated Cheese

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese on top can satisfy cheese lovers and enhance the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

To make your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta even more delicious, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure every bite is creamy and flavorful.

• Use High-Quality Chicken – Choosing fresh, boneless chicken breasts will improve the taste and texture of your pasta.
• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak seasonings according to your taste preferences; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up!
• Let It Sit – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps it thicken nicely before serving.
• Experiment with Pastas – While cavatappi works well, you can try other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for variety.
• Add Vegetables – Toss in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color right before serving.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth – Opting for low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels while still providing rich flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings a tangy contrast that pairs well with creamy flavors.
4. Roasted Asparagus – Roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides a bright, fresh taste.
5. Caprese Salad – The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing touch alongside the pasta.
6. Italian Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant adds depth and flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta, even small mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not browning the chicken first can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always use the sauté function to develop deeper flavors.

• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much broth can make the pasta mushy. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.

• Not Stirring the Pasta: Failing to mix the pasta with the broth before sealing can cause uneven cooking. Be sure to stir well before locking the lid.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Follow the recommended cooking time closely for juicy results.

• Not Allowing Time to Thicken: Rushing to serve without letting it sit may result in a runny sauce. Allow a few minutes after mixing in cream and cheese for optimal thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth while reheating over medium heat until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta that might help enhance your cooking experience:

Can I use other types of pasta for Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Adjust cooking times if necessary according to package instructions.

How do I customize my Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking or swap out chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?

The total time includes approximately 15 minutes for pressure buildup and 5 minutes of cooking time under high pressure.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal perfect for any night of the week.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and cashew cheese.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping proteins. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but flavor is still important. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy goodness!