Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further than this Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe! This one-pot wonder combines juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, cheesy parmesan sauce – all without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Get ready to impress your family with this easy, delicious, and surprisingly elegant dish.
What Makes This Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe So Special?
This recipe isn't just about speed and convenience; it's about achieving restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home. The Instant Pot perfectly cooks the chicken and pasta simultaneously, ensuring everything is tender and flavorful. The garlic-infused parmesan sauce is rich and creamy, coating each strand of pasta and creating a truly satisfying experience. We've focused on simple ingredients and clear instructions to make it accessible to even beginner cooks.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and then the chicken. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor.
- Add Aromatics and Broth: Stir in the minced garlic and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth.
- Add Pasta and Seasonings: Add the pasta, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Stir in Cream and Cheese: Once the pressure is released, carefully open the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Serve: Serve immediately and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes, including penne, rotini, fusilli, farfalle, and even small shells. Just ensure you use a pasta that holds its shape well.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. You could also add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch to thicken it.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking. Add them after the natural pressure release to avoid overcooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is optimized for the Instant Pot, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken separately, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver. Its ease, speed, and deliciousness make it a family favorite. Enjoy!
