If you’re craving a soul-soothing dinner that comes together faster than you can say “comfort food,” then you’re in for a treat with this Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe. It’s like getting all the coziness of a creamy chicken pasta dish with none of the fuss — perfectly tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a lush, cheesy sauce all cooked in one pot. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or just want something delicious without the wait, this recipe has got you covered with rich flavors and speedy prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from adding savory depth to creating that decadently creamy texture we all crave.
- 1 pound Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, but you can swap for thighs or tofu depending on your preference.
- 8 ounces Pasta: Elbow macaroni works great here; gluten-free options can be used to suit your dietary needs.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Adds a beautiful richness and helps with sautéing, with vegetable oil as a handy substitute.
- 1 medium Onion: Brings a mild sweetness and aroma; shallots or leeks also make a fine alternative.
- 2 cups Chicken Stock: The flavor foundation for the dish; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Adds silky richness and depth; vegan butter or omitting it totally works too.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: The heart of the creamy sauce, with evaporated milk as a lighter option.
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese: Gives the sauce a velvety texture; mascarpone is a lush substitute.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, nutty, and melts beautifully—nutritional yeast for a vegan swap.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For that garlicky kick; fresh minced garlic works perfectly if you have the time.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A fragrant mix including oregano and basil, or you can add those herbs fresh or separately.
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika: Optional, but it adds a subtle smoky warmth that elevates the dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by mixing salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika in a small bowl. This spice blend infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor that shines through in every bite, setting the stage for the creamy sauce to come.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken and Onion
Fire up your Instant Pot’s Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Brown the seasoned chicken pieces on all sides until beautifully golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, toss in the chopped onion and cook just until translucent — this adds a gentle sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Turn off the Sauté function and pour in a splash of chicken stock to deglaze. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift all those caramelized bits—this sneaky step captures maximum flavor for the sauce you’re about to create.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Stock
Stir in your pasta followed by the remaining chicken stock. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged; this ensures even cooking under pressure. This is a major time-saver compared to traditional methods!
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on Manual or Pressure Cook mode for just 3 minutes. Once the timer’s up, use the quick release to let out the steam carefully. This perfectly cooks the pasta and chicken simultaneously.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
Open the lid and stir in the butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan. Mix until everything melts into a luscious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta and chicken. At this point, taste and adjust seasoning as you please.
Step 7: Finish with a Fresh Touch
For an elevated finishing note, stir in a splash of lemon juice before serving. This subtle zing brightens the whole dish, balancing all the creamy richness you’ve just worked so hard to create.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe
Garnishes
Nobody wants a one-note dish, so sprinkle your plate with finely chopped fresh basil or parsley to add a fresh herbaceous lift. A little cracked black pepper or a dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts either for that extra umph.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pasta stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette will help sop up the silky sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating this dish in deep bowls for a cozy, rustic vibe. For a dinner party twist, serve portions in hollowed-out small bell peppers or ramekins, topped with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. It’s a simple presentation upgrade that makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier lunch the next day.
Freezing
While creamy pasta dishes usually don’t freeze perfectly, you can freeze portions in meal prep containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and be prepared for a slight change in texture—just give it a good stir during reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. A quick zap in the microwave also works, stirring halfway through to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice here, other short pastas like penne, rotini, or shells work beautifully as well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your pasta size differs to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite plant-based protein, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and replace cream, butter, and cheese with vegan alternatives like coconut cream, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast.
What can I do if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can recreate a similar creamy chicken pasta on the stovetop by cooking the chicken and sautéed onion first, then simmering pasta in broth until tender before stirring in cream and cheeses. It takes longer but still yields delicious results.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To kick up the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes when you stir in the creamy sauce. It adds a lively warmth that complements the dish well.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal creaminess, you can prepare the components ahead, such as seasoning and browning the chicken, or chopping the onion. Then, finish cooking the pasta and sauce when ready to serve for ultimate convenience.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe is a true weeknight hero that makes creamy, comforting food effortless. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to keep in your rotation for its speed, flavor, and that warm, satisfying feeling it leaves on your plate and heart. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with how easy and delicious dinner can be.
Print
Instant Pot Chicken Pasta: Creamy Comfort in 30 Minutes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken breast pieces are seasoned and sautéed before being pressure cooked with pasta and chicken stock, then finished with a rich blend of cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan for a decadent meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound Chicken Breast (Can substitute with chicken thighs or tofu)
Pasta
- 8 ounces Pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni) (Gluten-free option available)
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups Chicken Stock (Can use vegetable broth for vegetarian options)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Can be omitted or replaced with vegan butter)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Evaporated milk can be a lighter alternative)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (Mascarpone cheese can also be used)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be a vegan substitute)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium Onion (Can substitute with shallot or leeks)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used instead)
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Dried oregano and basil are suitable substitutes)
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (Optional for added smoky flavor)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Generously season the chicken pieces with this spice blend to ensure a flavorful base for the dish.
- Sauté the chicken and onions: Select the Sauté mode on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, browning them evenly on all sides for 5-7 minutes. Then, add the chopped onion and continue to sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes, developing a fragrant foundation.
- Deglaze the pot: Turn off the Sauté mode. Carefully pour in a small amount of chicken stock to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This step enhances the flavor and prevents burning during pressure cooking.
- Add pasta and stock: Stir in the pasta along with the remaining chicken stock, mixing well to evenly distribute ingredients before sealing the pot.
- Pressure cook the pasta and chicken: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the Sealing position. Select Manual or Pressure Cook mode and cook for 3 minutes. Once the timer goes off, carefully perform a quick release to release the pressure.
- Finish the sauce: Open the lid and stir in the butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and cohesive. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with finely chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Optionally, stir in a splash of lemon juice before serving to add bright acidity to the dish.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with thighs for a juicier texture or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Use gluten-free pasta and vegetable broth to make the recipe gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
- For a lighter sauce, evaporated milk can replace heavy cream without sacrificing creaminess.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving adds a refreshing tang that balances the richness.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
