Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan in a luscious sauce. Perfect for date nights or family dinners, this one-pot meal is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together in the Instant Pot, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or special occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Base
• For the Sauce
• For Add-ins
• REMEMBER
• How to Make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 2: Add Garlic
• Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
• Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
• Step 5: Pressure Cook
• Step 6: Quick Release
• Step 7: Finish the Sauce
• Step 8: Add Final Ingredients
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Salad
• Serve with Wine
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How do I make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
• Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
• What can I serve with Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How do I customize Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pot and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and creamy Parmesan creates a dish full of rich flavors.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what’s in your pantry, making it adaptable to your tastes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh basil, this dish looks as good as it tastes, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools to help you cook efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker allows you to sauté, pressure cook, and keep your meal warm all in one appliance.
• Wooden Spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping without scratching the Instant Pot’s inner pot.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate measurements for ingredients, leading to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces

For the Base

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Add-ins

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach

• Fresh basil (optional)

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REMEMBER

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How to Make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Press Sauté on the Instant Pot. Once hot, add the olive oil. Stir in the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in ½ cup of the chicken broth. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the remaining chicken broth. Layer the uncooked pasta on top without stirring. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper over the pasta.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot. Ensure that the pressure valve is set to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release

Once cooking is complete, carefully turn the pressure release valve to Venting for a quick release of steam.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Unlock the lid and stir everything well. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Then stir in heavy cream until well combined.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Gently fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm to enjoy this delightful dish!

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Serving Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can be a delightful experience, as there are many ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and balances the richness of the dish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Ciabatta Rolls: These rolls are perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a nice crunch that complements the pasta’s creaminess.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors.
• Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir can also enhance the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your cooking process.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a more intense flavor in your dish.
• Proper Sautéing: Make sure to sauté the chicken until it’s lightly browned; this adds depth to your flavor profile.
• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Avoid stirring after adding pasta; this ensures even cooking without clumping.
• Quick Release Technique: Be cautious when performing a quick release; it prevents overcooking while maintaining texture.
• Cream Variation: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for lower calories.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for unique flavors.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can round out your meal nicely. Here’s a selection of sides that work well together:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender can add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans provide a crisp texture that contrasts well with pasta.
4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds healthy grains to your meal.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs offers a tasty appetizer before diving into the main course.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as an alternative or addition to traditional pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the chicken first can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the chicken to enhance the taste.
• Adding Too Much Liquid: Using too much broth can make the pasta mushy. Follow the recipe closely to ensure proper liquid ratios.
• Neglecting to Deglaze: Forgetting to scrape up browned bits may result in a burnt taste. Always deglaze after sautéing for better flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta for too long will turn it into mush. Stick to the recommended pressure cooking time for perfect pasta.
• Forgetting Seasoning: Skipping spices can leave your dish bland. Make sure to add all seasonings as indicated for a flavorful meal.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing it tightly.

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed, until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy and delectable one-pot meal featuring chicken, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese cooked quickly in an Instant Pot.

How do I make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta option. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Using frozen chicken is possible but requires adjusting cooking times. It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

How do I customize Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap out spinach for kale. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!