Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a blend of flavors that will have you saying I do to dinner! Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pot meal offers convenience without sacrificing taste. With its rich texture and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• For Seasoning
• For Vegetables
• For Garnish
• How to Make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 2: Add Garlic
• Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
• Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
• Step 5: Pressure Cook
• Step 6: Quick Release
• Step 7: Finish the Sauce
• Step 8: Add Final Ingredients
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Offer Grated Parmesan
• Include Fresh Herbs
• Serve in Individual Bowls
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How do I customize this recipe?
• Can I use frozen chicken?
• Is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthy?
• What should I serve with this dish?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 28 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pans; everything cooks in the Instant Pot for easy cleanup.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.
• Family-Friendly: This pasta dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! It allows for quick cooking under pressure while infusing all flavors beautifully.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board makes prepping your ingredients safe and easy.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop ingredients quickly and uniformly.
• Measuring Cups: Ensuring accurate measurements is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta

For Seasoning

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

For Vegetables

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach

For Garnish

Optional garnish: Fresh basil

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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 about 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, 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 to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the remaining chicken broth. Add the penne pasta on top without stirring. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper over it.

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

Once 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 combined.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Gently fold in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until evenly incorporated.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be a delightful experience. This creamy, flavorful dish pairs well with various sides and accompaniments, making it versatile for any meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy pasta.

Offer Grated Parmesan

• Grated Parmesan: Serve extra Parmesan on the side for those who love a cheesy kick.

Include Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances flavor and adds a pop of color to your dish.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Presenting portions in individual bowls makes serving easier and adds an elegant touch to your meal.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Perfecting Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and good-quality Parmesan cheese make a big difference in flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Deglazing: Scraping up browned bits prevents burning and enhances the sauce’s depth.
• Check Pasta Doneness: Adjust cooking time if using different pasta shapes to avoid overcooking.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste before serving; you may want more seasoning depending on personal preference.
• Be Careful with Pressure Release: Always use caution when performing a quick release to avoid steam burns.
• Experiment with Additional Veggies: Adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can enhance nutrition and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a deliciously crispy texture.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad provides freshness that complements the creamy pasta.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers create an easy, fresh appetizer.
6. Risotto Cakes: Crispy risotto cakes add a delightful twist and extra flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta experience even better.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the chicken first can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the chicken to enhance the dish’s richness.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Failing to deglaze can result in burnt bits at the bottom. Be sure to scrape up any browned pieces after adding broth.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long will make it mushy. Follow the recommended pressure cooking time for perfect texture.
• Ignoring Liquid Measurements: Using too little broth can cause burn notices. Measure accurately and ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot.
• Forgetting About Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like fresh basil can diminish presentation and flavor. Always consider a finishing touch for added appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• item Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label with the date.
• item Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese made conveniently in your Instant Pot.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms or using different types of pasta according to your preference.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthy?

This recipe can be made healthier by using whole grain pasta and reducing cream or cheese quantities according to dietary preferences.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization, you can make it unique every time you serve it. Try this easy one-pot meal any night of the week!