Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for those who crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan sauce, this meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pot recipe will impress your family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time, allowing you to have dinner ready in just 28 minutes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy sauce that delights the taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by substituting different pasta shapes or adding your favorite vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even picky eaters, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This versatile appliance ensures quick cooking while retaining flavors and nutrients.
• Wooden Spatula: Perfect for deglazing the pot without scratching the non-stick surface.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan in a luscious sauce. Made entirely in the Instant Pot, it’s an easy and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for any night of the week!

For the Main Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach

For Garnish

• Fresh basil (optional)

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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 lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 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 browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the remaining chicken broth. Add uncooked penne pasta on top. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper over pasta. Avoid stirring at this point.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close and lock the lid of the 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 complete, 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 melted. Then stir in heavy cream until fully combined.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Gently fold in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until everything is well mixed.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm to enjoy a delightful meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Top your pasta with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh, earthy taste that complements the richness of the dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Serve the pasta on a bed of mixed greens for added texture and freshness.
• Arugula: The peppery flavor of arugula contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the pasta.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Focaccia: This soft, herb-infused bread makes an excellent pairing, adding an Italian touch to your meal.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light, flavorful side that matches beautifully.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Cooking Time: Ensure you set the pressure cooking time to exactly 4 minutes for perfectly cooked pasta.
• Bold Use of Broth: Using reduced-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels while retaining flavor.
• Bold Stirring Carefully: Avoid stirring the pasta before cooking; this prevents it from clumping together.
• Bold Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for varied flavors.
• Bold Taste Adjustments: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor profile.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement the creamy pasta perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s great for dipping in sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts provide texture and a slightly nutty flavor that balances richness.
4. Italian Antipasto Salad: A mix of olives, peppers, and cheese offers a tangy contrast to creamy pasta.
5. Crispy Green Beans: Sautéed or roasted green beans add crunch and freshness to your plate.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that offers a healthy alternative without sacrificing taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Using too much liquid: Adding extra broth can make the pasta mushy. Stick to the recipe’s specified amount of chicken broth.
• Not deglazing the pot: Skipping this step can lead to burnt bits that affect flavor. Always scrape up browned bits after sautéing.
• Overcooking the pasta: Pressure cooking for too long can result in soggy noodles. Follow the timing closely for perfect pasta.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Using regular broth may make your dish too salty. Opt for reduced-sodium broth to control salt levels better.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping fresh basil can mean missing out on added flavor and presentation. Always consider garnishing before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Divide into single servings for easier thawing and reheating.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warm. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, stirring frequently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese cooked quickly in an Instant Pot.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with rigatoni or rotini depending on your preference.

How do you know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) after cooking for accurate doneness.

What can I add to customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or spice it up with red pepper flakes for extra heat!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and reheats well, making it great for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and creamy but also quick and easy to prepare. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet delicious this dish is!

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