chicken pasta instant pot recipe
The Best chicken pasta instant pot recipe
Oh, this chicken pasta recipe in the Instant Pot? It’s one of those things that feels like magic in the kitchen—simple enough to whip up when life gets busy, but still packed with flavor that makes it feel like a special dinner. I love it because it’s the kind of meal that doesn’t require standing over the stove for hours, yet it still tastes like something your mom made, only better. My kids swear by it—they’ll beg for seconds because it’s so easy to customize. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a quick meal when I’m running late, it always comes together perfectly. Plus, it’s got that perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies without feeling like a chore. And the best part? It’s so customizable—you can add whatever veggies you’ve got on hand, swap out the pasta for whole wheat if you’re watching your intake, or even make it extra creamy with a little heavy cream or a splash of broth. It’s that kind of recipe that feels indulgent but also healthy, and honestly, that’s what I’m all about these days. My husband always says it’s the only pasta dish that doesn’t taste like it’s been sitting in the fridge for a week, which is a win in my book. Plus, it’s got that rich, savory taste that makes it feel like a treat, even if it’s just a simple bowl of pasta. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good, both in the kitchen and after.
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta
A quick and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all prepared in an Instant Pot for convenience and efficiency. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
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2 In the Instant Pot, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add diced bell peppers (if using) and peas, stir, then seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
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3 While the broth cooks, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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4 In a small saucepan, heat crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, minced garlic, tomato paste, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) over medium heat for 5 minutes. Let cool slightly.
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5 Open the Instant Pot valve and pour the cooked chicken and veggies into the saucepan with the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine. Return the mixture to the Instant Pot.
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6 Add cooked pasta to the Instant Pot. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release the pressure. Stir and serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Large skillet or pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Chicken Pasta Works
This chicken pasta recipe is always a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal that feels special without the fuss. It’s quick to make in the Instant Pot, so it’s perfect for when you’re hosting family or friends and want something comforting but not overly complicated—just enough flavor to make everyone feel taken care of without the stress of slow-cooking or last-minute scrambles. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the seasoning or add veggies if you’ve got extras on hand, so it’s always a reliable crowd-pleaser.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Chicken Pasta
What is the best way to prepare the chicken pasta for the Instant Pot to ensure it’s tender and flavorful?
The best way is to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (they stay juicier than breasts) and cook them in the Instant Pot with a splash of broth or pasta water to render the fat and infuse the sauce. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder before adding it to the pot. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before shredding or slicing to retain moisture.
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How long should I cook the chicken pasta in the Instant Pot, and what pressure level should I be using?
For chicken pasta, use the High Pressure setting for 8 minutes (for bone-in thighs) or 6 minutes (for boneless breasts). If you’re using a mix of pasta and chicken, ensure the pot has enough liquid (about 1.5 cups) to cover the pasta and create steam. Avoid overfilling the pot to prevent pressure issues.
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Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe, and what are the penultimate adjustments I should make?
Yes! Here are some common swaps: – Pasta: Use penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. – Chicken: Swap thighs for breasts (reduce pressure time to 6 mins) or use shrimp (cook for 4 mins). – Broth: Replace with chicken stock, vegetable broth, or even water + bouillon. – Spices: Adjust garlic, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to taste. Adjustments: – If using less liquid, add pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking. – For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.
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Why is my chicken pasta coming out rubbery, and how can I fix it?
A rubbery texture usually happens due to overcooking or not letting the chicken rest properly. To fix it: 1. Check cooking time: Use bone-in thighs (8 mins, high pressure) or breasts (6 mins). If using pasta, ensure it’s al dente (test with a fork). 2. Rest the chicken: After pressure cooking, let it sit for 5 minutes before shredding to redistribute juices. 3. Add acid or oil: A splash of lemon juice, vinegar, or olive oil at the end can tenderize the protein. 4. Reduce pressure time: If using boneless chicken, try 5 minutes instead of 6.
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How do I customize the flavor profile of the chicken pasta beyond the basic recipe?
To elevate your Instant Pot chicken pasta, try these flavor boosts: – Umami: Add a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of MSG. – Herbs: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme at the end, or use dried oregano. – Acid: Finish with red pepper flakes, a squeeze of lemon, or a dash of hot sauce. – Cheese: Mix in shredded Parmesan, feta, or a creamy Alfredo sauce (stir in at the end). – Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the broth before adding pasta. – Spices: Add smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
