Easy Instant Pot Chicken Pasta Recipes Tonight
Instant pot chicken pasta recipes offer a quick and easy way to create delicious, comforting meals. This family-friendly option is perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 6-quart or larger electric pressure cooker (Instant Pot)
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or other vegetables
Instructions
- Step 1: Saut Aromatics: Turn the electric pressure cooker to the "Saut" setting. Add olive oil and heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the electric pressure cooker and cook until lightly browned on all sides. It does not need to be cooked through at this point.
- Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids: Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk (or half-and-half), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the electric pressure cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Step 4: Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the electric pressure cooker, ensuring the valve is set to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the cooking time to 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully perform a quick pressure release by moving the valve to the "Venting" position.
- Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Vegetables: Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and any optional frozen vegetables (if using). Allow the vegetables to heat through from the residual heat, about 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.
- Step 7: Serve: Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Optional Tips: For a creamier sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Spinach, broccoli florets, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for extra flavor and nutrients. Use different types of pasta, such as rotini, penne, or bowtie, based on preference. Consider using pre-shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Notes
Variations
“Instant pot chicken pasta recipes” offers remarkable flexibility in adapting to various preferences and needs. The inherent adaptability allows for modifications spanning ingredient swaps, regional styles, and dietary adjustments.
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Protein: Can be substituted with turkey breast, sausage, or chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, and spinach offer alternatives to peas, providing various nutrients and textures.
- Dairy: Coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk can replace cow’s milk for dairy-free versions. Nutritional yeast can impart a cheesy flavor.
- Pasta: Gluten-free pasta varieties, lentil pasta, or zucchini noodles present gluten-free and lower-carb options.
- Regional Styles:
- Mexican: Incorporate salsa, black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Southwestern flair.
- Italian: Sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and fresh mozzarella add a Mediterranean touch.
- Asian: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil introduce an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Low-Carb: Substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Dairy-Free: Utilize plant-based milk and cheeses, ensuring the cream of chicken soup is dairy-free or homemade.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and limit added salt.
Serving Suggestions
“Instant pot chicken pasta recipes” serves as a versatile main course suitable for various occasions. It can be served hot for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil enhances visual appeal and flavor. A side salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can be served alongside to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider serving a lighter appetizer, such as bruschetta or a simple caprese salad, to complement the main course. For larger gatherings, this recipe doubles or triples easily.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness and quality of “instant pot chicken pasta recipes.” Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly. Stored properly, it remains fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through, or reheat larger quantities on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess. Freezing is also an option for longer storage. Divide the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the pasta, but the flavor remains intact. Frozen pasta can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can other types of pasta be used? Yes, various pasta shapes such as rotini, farfalle, or shells work well. Adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker pasta.
- Question 2: Can frozen chicken be used? It is generally not recommended to pressure cook frozen chicken breasts for safety reasons. Thaw the chicken completely before cooking.
- Question 3: The sauce is too thick. How can it be thinned? Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin the sauce to the desired consistency.
- Question 4: Can the recipe be doubled? Yes, the recipe can be doubled. No adjustments to the cooking time are necessary.
- Question 5: Why is my pasta mushy? Overcooking is the primary cause of mushy pasta. Ensure the pressure cooking time is accurate and perform a quick pressure release after the natural release to prevent overcooking.