Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare, then look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Alfredo sauce, all made in one pot in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Why This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta Stands Out
This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe isn’t just easy to make; it’s also a one-pot wonder that reduces cleanup time dramatically. The flavors meld beautifully as everything cooks together, resulting in a creamy, savory dish that delights both the palate and the senses. Plus, you can customize it to your liking, whether you want to add vegetables or tweak the cheese for a different flavor profile. It’s a recipe that promises satisfaction in every bite, and the convenience of the Instant Pot makes it a go-to in any home cook’s repertoire.
What Goes Into Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- 2 tablespoons canola oil – For sautéing the chicken and adding richness.
- 1 cubed boneless skinless chicken breast – Cut into 1/2″ cubes for quick cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley – For a touch of herbal freshness.
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth – The base for cooking the pasta and chicken.
- 5 cups bowtie pasta – The perfect shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 1 (8-ounce) package light cream cheese – For that creamy, rich texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully into the dish.
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons water – Helps to dissolve the cornstarch.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – For thickening the sauce.
Must-Have Equipment
- Instant Pot – The star of the show that makes this recipe a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Cutting board and knife – For chopping chicken and preparing ingredients.
- Spoon or spatula – For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Begin by turning your Instant Pot on to the sauté setting. Add the canola oil and let it heat up for a minute.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the cubed boneless skinless chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Pasta
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the bowtie pasta to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the broth.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, quickly release the pressure by turning the valve.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream Cheese
Open the lid and stir in the light cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the pasta. This will create that luxurious Alfredo sauce.
Step 6: Add the Cheeses
Now, add the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pasta to thicken the sauce further, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes with the sauté function until it reaches your desired consistency.
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Lower Fat: Substitute regular cream cheese with a non-fat version or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a veggie-packed meal.
- Low Carb: Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
When making Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, there are a few things to watch out for:
- Burning: If the chicken or garlic starts to stick to the bottom during sautéing, deglaze with a splash of chicken broth.
- Overcooked Pasta: Be attentive to the pressure cooking time; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta.
- Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
- Not Enough Flavor: Adjust seasonings after incorporating the cheeses for a more vibrant flavor profile.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To store your Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore the creamy texture as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer.
Handy Q&A
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a fun choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly different flavor while still keeping that creamy texture.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
To add veggies, consider tossing in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll cook quickly and add great nutrients!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat gently, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
Don’t Miss These
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Pinch of Yum – Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Minimalist Baker – Vegan Alfredo Pasta
- Food Network – Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Hungry for More?
If you loved this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, you’ll definitely want to check out more of our comforting pasta recipes. Each one is designed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table, all while being easy to prepare. Whether you’re craving a classic spaghetti dish, a hearty baked ziti, or a creamy carbonara, we’ve got you covered!
Enjoy your culinary adventure, and remember: cooking should be fun and delicious! Your Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is just the beginning of many mouthwatering meals to come.
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by turning your Instant Pot on to the sauté setting. Add the canola oil and let it heat up for a minute.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cubed boneless skinless chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the bowtie pasta to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the broth.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, quickly release the pressure by turning the valve.
- Open the lid and stir in the light cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the pasta. This will create that luxurious Alfredo sauce.
- Now, add the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pasta to thicken the sauce further, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes with the sauté function until it reaches your desired consistency.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the creamy texture.
