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- 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste - 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 12 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, or a blend) - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) Gathering these ingredients is the first step. Each one plays an important role in the flavor and texture of the dish. The olive oil helps to sauté the chicken, adding richness. The chicken breasts are the star protein, providing a hearty base. I use garlic powder and onion powder for quick flavor without chopping. Salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors. The chicken broth adds moisture, making the pasta creamy. Penne pasta holds the sauce well, but feel free to swap it for your favorite shape. Heavy cream is key for that luscious texture. Freshly grated Parmesan brings a sharp taste, while Italian herbs add warmth. Lastly, fresh parsley brightens each bowl with color and freshness. With all these ingredients ready, you can create a delightful meal with ease. 1. Sauté Chicken: Start by turning on your Instant Pot. Select the Sauté function. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let it heat for a moment. Add 1 pound of diced chicken pieces. Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it turns lightly browned and is mostly cooked. 2. Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor: Use fresh cracked pepper for the best taste. You can also add a pinch of Italian herbs at this stage. This will deepen flavors and make your dish pop. 1. Adding Chicken Broth and Pasta: Carefully pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds flavor. Next, add 12 ounces of penne pasta on top. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth. 2. Setting the Instant Pot Correctly: Close the lid tightly. Set the steam valve to the sealing position. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook function. Adjust the timer to 4 minutes. 1. Stirring in Cream and Cheese: Once the cooking cycle ends, perform a quick release by turning the valve to vent. Be careful of the hot steam. After the pressure releases, unlock the lid. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. 2. How to Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if you want to boost the flavors. This is your chance to make it just right before serving. To get the best flavor from your chicken, start by sautéing it well. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot until it shimmers. Add your chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is lightly browned. This step adds a lot of flavor to your dish. Scraping the bottom of the pot is key too. When you add the chicken broth, use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits off the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor. This simple act boosts the taste of your creamy chicken Parmesan pasta. Adjust the seasonings to match your taste. If you love garlic, add more garlic powder. If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also swap out the dried Italian herbs for fresh ones if you have them. Fresh herbs can bring a vibrant taste to your meal. Some alternative seasonings to try include smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or lemon zest for a fresh kick. Be creative and make the dish your own! {{image_4}} You can swap out penne for many other pasta shapes. Try using fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Each shape holds sauce differently, which can change the dish's feel. Fusilli twists catch more sauce, while farfalle adds a fun look. Spaghetti offers a classic touch. Just remember that cooking time may vary slightly based on the pasta you choose. To make this dish healthier, consider using low-fat cream or cheese. You will still get a creamy texture, but with fewer calories. Also, you can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. These not only boost nutrition but also add color and flavor. Just chop them up and toss them in with the chicken. This keeps the meal balanced and tasty. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well to keep air out. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Use a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to three months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. The best way is to use the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pan. This will help bring back creaminess. Stir often over low heat until warm. You can also use the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the dish. Enjoy your creamy chicken Parmesan pasta just as delicious as the first time! Cooking pasta in the Instant Pot takes about 4 minutes under pressure. This time is fast, and it helps the pasta absorb flavors from the dish. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Cook it for about 10-12 minutes instead of 4 minutes. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving. You can serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread. Both add freshness and texture. A light dessert, like fruit, can complement the meal well. Yes, you can make it dairy-free. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. These swaps still give a creamy texture and nice flavor. This recipe for creamy chicken Parmesan pasta is a winner. You need simple ingredients and an Instant Pot. Start by sautéing the chicken, adding broth, and cooking the pasta all in one pot. Don’t forget the cream and cheese for that rich flavor. Remember to save some for later and reheat it right. Whether you prefer healthier options or different pasta shapes, this dish can adapt to your taste. Enjoy making it and sharing with friends!

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, savory dish that features tender chicken and al dente pasta, all coated in rich Parmesan. Perfect for busy nights, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and elevate your dinner game tonight!
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Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

12 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, or a blend)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté Chicken: Begin by turning on your Instant Pot and selecting the Sauté function. Pour in the olive oil and allow it to heat for a moment. Add the diced chicken pieces to the pot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly browned and mostly cooked through.

    Add Broth and Pasta: Carefully pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the pot, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor. Add the penne pasta on top and ensure it is fully submerged in the broth. Close the Instant Pot lid tightly and set the steam valve to the sealing position.

      Pressure Cook: Select the Manual or Pressure Cook function on the Instant Pot and adjust the timer to 4 minutes. Once the cooking cycle has completed, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to vent. Be cautious of the hot steam.

        Stir in Cream and Cheese: Once the pressure has fully released, unlock and open the lid. Immediately stir in the heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

          Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more salt and pepper if needed to elevate the flavors.

            Serve: Use a large spoon to transfer the creamy chicken Parmesan pasta into individual bowls. For a final touch, sprinkle each bowl with finely chopped fresh parsley, which will add color and a burst of freshness to the dish.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top and a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!