Creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Pasta (One-Pot Dinner in 30 Minutes!)

Looking for a quick, comforting dinner that comes together in one pot? This creamy Instant Pot chicken and pasta is a weeknight lifesaver. With juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce, it’s the kind of meal that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day—but it’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just want something cozy without the hassle, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is a pantry-friendly recipe that uses simple ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tbsp butter
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 2 cups chicken broth
  
• 2 cups heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half)
  
• 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
  
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• ¼ tsp black pepper
  
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
  

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta in the Instant Pot

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Turn on the Sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil and butter, then toss in the diced chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Pasta

Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine. Then, pour in the pasta and press it gently down so it’s mostly submerged in the liquid (don’t stir!).

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes.

Step 5: Quick Release and Stir

Once the time is up, do a quick release. Stir the pasta and chicken mixture, then add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Top with chopped parsley or basil, and serve hot. That’s it—dinner is ready!

 Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Stick to the time listed, even if it seems short. It keeps cooking a bit during the pressure release.
  
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts better than the bagged kind and makes a smoother sauce.
  
• Swap-ins welcome: Try using spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

FAQ:

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it first. Cooking frozen meat with pasta can lead to uneven results and mushy noodles.

What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works great. Avoid delicate noodles like angel hair—they overcook quickly.

Can I make it dairy-free?
You can swap the cream for coconut milk and skip the cheese, but the flavor and texture will change a lot.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With This Dish

Pair this creamy chicken pasta with:

• A simple green salad
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Steamed broccoli or roasted veggies
  

It’s hearty on its own, but these sides make it a full meal.

Read also: Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas