Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Published:

by Sabrina

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare and delivers a flavor-packed experience with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese in a luscious sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this one-pot meal makes dinner a breeze!

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 28 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked in your Instant Pot.
  • Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a rich and satisfying dish.
  • Customizable: Feel free to use different pasta shapes or add vegetables to suit your taste.
  • Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

  • Instant Pot: This versatile appliance allows for fast cooking under pressure while locking in flavors.
  • Cutting Board: A stable surface for chopping ingredients helps maintain safety in the kitchen.
  • Sharp Knife: Having a sharp knife makes prep work quick and efficient, ensuring even cuts.
  • Wooden Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching the pot’s non-stick surface.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Broth and Pasta

  • 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
  • 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta

For Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For Creaminess

  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Finishing Touches

  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Optional garnish: Fresh basil

How to Make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Press Sauté on the Instant Pot. Once hot, add the olive oil. Stir in the chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the remaining chicken broth over the mixture. Then place the uncooked penne pasta on top. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper over the pasta without stirring.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close and lock the lid of your Instant Pot. Ensure that the pressure valve is set to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release

When cooking is finished, carefully turn the pressure release valve to Venting for a quick release of steam.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Unlock the lid and stir everything well. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then stir in heavy cream until combined.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Gently fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach until all ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for serving in various ways that enhance its rich taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

  • Crispy Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

  • Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta perfectly.

Include Roasted Vegetables

  • Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal.

Offer Grated Parmesan

  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Provide a bowl of grated Parmesan cheese for guests who want that extra cheesy flavor.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

  • Infused Olive Oil: A drizzle of flavored olive oil can add an extra layer of richness and depth to each serving.
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How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure you achieve the best version of Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese for superior flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sauté just until lightly browned to keep the chicken tender.
  • Adjust Broth Levels: If you like saucier pasta, add an extra cup of broth when cooking.
  • Stir After Cooking: Mix well after pressure cooking to ensure even distribution of flavors and sauce.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or oregano for a burst of freshness right before serving.
  • Cool Before Storing: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers for better preservation.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving side dishes alongside your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well.
  2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; simply steam it until tender.
  3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons.
  4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction complement the main dish’s flavors beautifully.
  5. Herb Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf provides a neutral base that balances the flavors of the pasta.
  6. Antipasto Platter: Include cured meats, olives, and cheeses as an appetizer to kick off your meal on a savory note.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can help you make the best Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

  • Skipping the Sauté Step: Many people skip sautéing the chicken. This step adds flavor through browning. Always brown your chicken for better taste.
  • Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushiness. Follow the manual pressure cooking time closely to ensure perfect texture.
  • Ignoring the Quick Release Method: Failing to perform a quick release can overcook your ingredients. Always carefully switch the valve to Venting after cooking.
  • Not Deglazing Properly: Skipping this step can cause burnt bits and affect flavor. Always scrape up browned bits before adding other ingredients.
  • Using Regular Broth: Not using reduced-sodium broth may make your dish too salty. Opt for reduced-sodium options for better control over salt levels.

Refrigerator Storage

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed; stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delicious one-pot meal made with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy Parmesan sauce, all cooked in an Instant Pot.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne to make this dish gluten-free while keeping it flavorful.

How do I customize Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or substitute chicken with shrimp or turkey for variety.

How long does it take to cook this dish?

The total time is about 28 minutes, including prep, cooking, and pressure release time.

Final Thoughts

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is an easy yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its versatility allows for customization based on your preferences. Try it today and see how it becomes a family favorite!

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Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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Indulge in the creamy, flavorful delight of Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This one-pot meal is a perfect blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rich Parmesan cheese, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish comes together in just 28 minutes, making it an effortless choice for dinner. Enjoy minimal cleanup with your Instant Pot while savoring a comforting Italian-inspired meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

  • Author: Sabrina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth (divided)
  • 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Seasonings: garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, pepper

Instructions

  1. Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned (2-3 minutes).
  2. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds.
  3. Deglaze: Pour in ½ cup chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pot.
  4. Combine ingredients: Add remaining broth, penne pasta, and seasonings on top without stirring.
  5. Pressure cook: Seal the lid and cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes.
  6. Quick release: Carefully switch to venting to release steam.
  7. Finish sauce: Stir well and mix in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
  8. Add final ingredients: Fold in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until fully combined.
  9. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 590
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 57g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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