Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Are you craving a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that comes together in no time? Look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta! With tender chicken, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious sauce that clings to every bite, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the reasons why this dish is a must-try!
Reasons to Love Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
There are countless reasons to adore this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Here are just a few:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy cheese, savory chicken, and aromatic herbs makes for a delightful dish.
- Customizable: Easily add vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: A creamy pasta dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 cubed boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2″ cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 cups bowtie pasta
- 1 (8-ounce) package light cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Instant Pot: The star of the show that makes this recipe quick and easy.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the chicken and other ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Serving Spoon: To serve this delicious meal to your family.
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta: How It’s Done
Follow these simple steps to create your Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the canola oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the cubed chicken breast, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is lightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Pasta
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and stir to combine. Add the bowtie pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the broth. Do not stir it in too much; just ensure the pasta is covered.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual setting and set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce
Open the lid and stir the pasta. Add the light cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese to the pot. In a small bowl, mix the water and corn starch to create a slurry, then add it to the pot. Stir everything together until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is combined and creamy, your Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is ready to serve! Dish it out into bowls and enjoy the rich flavors. Feel free to garnish with additional parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for an extra touch.
International Equivalents
If you’re looking to make substitutions based on local availability, here are some international equivalents for the ingredients:
- Canola Oil: Sunflower oil or vegetable oil
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Chicken thigh fillets or turkey breast
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth or homemade chicken stock
- Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle or any other pasta shape
- Light Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt
- Shredded Mozzarella: Grated Gouda or a dairy-free cheese alternative
Little Things that Matter
When preparing this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta, consider these little tips that can make a big difference:
- Make sure to cube the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the natural pressure release; it helps with the texture of the pasta.
- Feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute some of the chicken broth with milk or half-and-half.
Shelf Life & Storage
If you have leftovers (if you can resist finishing it all!), here’s how to store them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
- You can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months; however, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is great for meal prep. Just portion it out into containers and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this dish without chicken?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or even some chickpeas for added protein.
What can I serve with this pasta dish?
This creamy pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread also makes for a delicious side dish to soak up the creamy sauce!
Next Steps
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Gather your ingredients, fire up the Instant Pot, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you add to the recipe!
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor. So, embrace the ease of the Instant Pot and indulge in this delightful dish tonight!
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the canola oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the cubed chicken breast, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is lightly browned. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and stir to combine. Add the bowtie pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the broth. Do not stir it in too much; just ensure the pasta is covered.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the manual setting and set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir the pasta. Add the light cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese to the pot. In a small bowl, mix the water and corn starch to create a slurry, then add it to the pot. Stir everything together until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Once everything is combined and creamy, your Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is ready to serve! Dish it out into bowls and enjoy the rich flavors. Feel free to garnish with additional parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for an extra touch.
Notes
- Make sure to cube the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the natural pressure release; it helps with the texture of the pasta.
- Feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute some of the chicken broth with milk or half-and-half.
