Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate combination of rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. With tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious Parmesan sauce cooked all in one pot, this recipe simplifies meal prep without sacrificing taste. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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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 Pasta Dish
• For Garnish
• 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
• Serve with a Side Salad
• Offer Extra Cheese
• How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• What can I add for extra flavor?
• Is there a healthy alternative for heavy cream?
• What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Made entirely in the Instant Pot, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute pasta or add extra veggies based on your preferences for a personalized touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This creamy pasta dish is sure to impress guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This versatile cooker allows for quick pressure cooking while infusing flavors throughout the dish.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging the pot’s surface.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.
• Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is packed with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan in a luscious sauce. Made entirely in the Instant Pot, it’s an easy and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for any night of the week!

For the Pasta Dish

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 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
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach

For Garnish

• Fresh basil (optional)

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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 pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

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

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

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

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

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

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close and lock the lid of your 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 switch the pressure release valve to Venting for a quick release of steam.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Unlock the lid once all pressure has been released. Stir everything well before adding grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Mix in heavy cream until fully combined.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Stir in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until everything is evenly mixed together.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile in how it can be served. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley enhances the dish’s freshness and provides a lovely contrast.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread complements the pasta beautifully.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls make an excellent side for enjoying every bit of this rich meal.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and savory dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings freshness to your plate.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Adding extra Parmesan on top makes each bite even creamier and more indulgent.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can enhance the dish’s cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, keep these tips in mind for a flawless dish every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with Italian seasoning; it enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
• Thoroughly deglaze: Scraping up browned bits ensures no stuck-on pieces affect cooking or flavor.
• Quick release caution: Be careful when performing a quick release to avoid splattering hot liquid.
• Creamy finish: Stir in heavy cream slowly for a smoother texture that melds perfectly with the cheese.
• Adjust cooking time: If using larger chicken pieces, consider increasing the cooking time slightly for tenderness.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta perfectly. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this rich dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up any sauce left on your plate.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and balance out the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers crunch and vibrant color while being healthy.
4. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad combines tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a refreshing contrast.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for an elegant starter or side.
6. Risotto: A creamy risotto can mirror the pasta’s flavors while adding depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that could lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not browning your chicken first can lead to a lack of flavor. Always sauté the chicken for better taste.
• Ignoring the Pressure Release: Forgetting to quick release the pressure can overcook your pasta. Make sure to release it promptly after cooking.
• Stirring Before Cooking: Mixing ingredients before sealing the lid can cause a burn notice. Layer ingredients as instructed for optimal cooking.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: A high-sodium broth can make your dish too salty. Opt for reduced-sodium chicken broth for better control.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Skipping fresh spinach or basil can reduce the freshness of your dish. Always include these ingredients for added flavor and nutrients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

It takes about 28 minutes total, including prep time, cooking time, and pressure build-up.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute penne with similar pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding red pepper flakes or extra Italian seasoning for more spice and depth.

Is there a healthy alternative for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce option without compromising too much on creaminess.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

You can replace them with fresh diced tomatoes or omit them entirely if preferred.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste by adding different vegetables or spices. Try this easy one-pot meal and impress your family with its delightful flavors!