Looking for a quick, delicious meal? You’ll love my Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta! This dish blends tender chicken, rich cream, and fresh spinach for a flavorful delight that’s ready in minutes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can wow your family or impress your guests. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
Seasonings and Enhancements
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Creamy Base and Greens
– 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
To make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta, start with fresh ingredients. The chicken adds protein and flavor. Olive oil helps create a nice sear. The broth adds depth to the dish. I love using penne or fusilli for their ability to hold sauce well.
Next, seasonings transform this meal. Garlic and onion powders bring a warm base. Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper allow you to adjust the taste to your liking.
For creaminess, heavy cream works wonders. If you prefer a lighter option, coconut milk is great too. Spinach not only adds color but also nutrition. Parmesan cheese gives the sauce a rich finish. You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Finally, fresh basil leaves add a pop of flavor and brightness.
This recipe is all about balance and flavor. You will love the way these ingredients come together in the Instant Pot. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
– Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps with even cooking.
– Next, measure out your seasonings and liquids. You will need garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chicken broth.
Cooking Process
– Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat.
– Once hot, add the diced chicken. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook this for about 4-5 minutes.
– Now, pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any bits from the pot. This adds flavor and stops sticking.
– Stir in the uncooked pasta and the heavy cream. Make sure the pasta is covered with liquid.
Finishing Touches
– Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Set the steam vent to ‘Sealing’.
– Cancel ‘Sauté’ mode. Choose ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 6 minutes.
– When the time is up, do a quick release by moving the valve to ‘Venting’.
– After the steam is gone and it’s safe, open the lid. Stir in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the spinach wilts and cheese melts.
– Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.
– Serve your creamy chicken pasta right away. Add fresh basil leaves on top for a bright touch.
For the full recipe, check the complete guide to making this delightful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture and Flavor
To make the best Instant Pot creamy chicken pasta, choose the right pasta. I recommend penne or fusilli. They hold sauce well and cook evenly. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can always add more spice!
Instant Pot Safety Tips
Understanding pressure release is key. There are two methods: quick release and natural release. For quick release, carefully turn the valve to vent. This lets steam out fast. For natural release, just wait until the pressure drops on its own. Always check if the lid is sealed. It should fit tight to avoid any mess.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal shine, serve with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad adds great crunch. Garlic bread is another tasty option. Pair this dish with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio. It complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the full recipe, check out the Instant Pot creamy chicken pasta delight!
Variations
Dietary Modifications
You can easily adjust this dish to fit your diet. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice sweetness and creaminess without dairy. If you need gluten-free pasta, choose gluten-free penne or fusilli. Many brands make great gluten-free options that cook well in the Instant Pot.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to enhance the taste? Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or bell peppers. They bring a burst of flavor and color. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also work wonders. Just a sprinkle can elevate your dish to a new level.
Protein Alternatives
If you’re in the mood for something different, swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu. These options cook quickly and add a unique twist. For a vegetarian meal, try using chickpeas instead of chicken. They add protein and a nice texture while keeping the dish filling.
Explore these variations to make your meal truly yours. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe link.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta fresh, follow these steps:
– Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking.
– Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
Proper storage helps maintain flavor and texture. You can enjoy this dish for up to three days in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, here are the best ways to reheat them:
– Microwave reheating: Place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the pasta moist.
– Stovetop reheating: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir in your pasta and mix until heated through.
These methods keep your pasta creamy and delicious!
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to save some pasta for later, freezing is a great option:
– Freezing portions: Divide the pasta into meal-sized portions. Place them in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
– Thawing methods: To thaw, place the bag in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, run it under cold water. You can also use the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re in a hurry.
Freezing helps extend the shelf life, allowing you to enjoy this dish on busy days!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta?
It takes about 30 minutes total. This includes 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. The cooking time for the pasta is just 6 minutes under pressure. The Instant Pot heats quickly, which makes this meal fast and easy.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you use chicken that is frozen solid, I suggest cutting it into smaller pieces. This helps it cook more evenly. Always check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, try using coconut milk. It gives a similar richness. You can also use cashew cream or almond milk for a dairy-free choice. These options keep the dish creamy without the heaviness of heavy cream.
This blog post covered a tasty Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta recipe. We explored the main ingredients, seasonings, and how to create a creamy base with fresh greens. I explained step-by-step instructions, plus tips for perfect texture and flavor. We also looked at variations, storage info, and answered some FAQs.
Cooking this dish is easy and fun. Try it out for a quick, satisfying meal!
