Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta: A Flavor-Packed One-Pot Wonder

If you're searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta. With creamy sauce, tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, this one-pot meal comes together effortlessly and is perfect for busy weeknights. 

Using the Instant Pot saves time and locks in all the delicious flavors, making this dish a family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot.

• Minimal Cleanup: One-pot cooking means fewer dishes.

• Flavorful: A creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan.

• Family-Friendly: A hearty and comforting pasta dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Chicken

• Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode.

• Add olive oil and heat.

• Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

• Add chicken to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.

• Stir in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.

2. Add Pasta & Broth

• Turn off the sauté mode.

• Add the pasta and chicken broth, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged.

• Do not stir (to prevent a burn warning).

3. Pressure Cook

• Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing.

• Cook on Manual High Pressure for 5 minutes.

• Once done, perform a quick release.

4. Make It Creamy

• Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

• Add the spinach and stir until wilted.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

• Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

• Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time.

• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more veggies.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it’s cut into small pieces and adjust the sauté time to ensure it cooks through.

Q2: What pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni works best as they hold the sauce well.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Sauté the chicken and garlic in a skillet, cook pasta separately, and then combine everything with the cream and cheese.

Q4: How do I avoid the burn warning?

Make sure to layer the ingredients correctly—do not stir after adding the broth and pasta. Deglazing the pot after sautéing also helps.

Q5: Can I make it spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic.

Q6: Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are usually a hit with kids.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but ensure not to overfill the Instant Pot. Keep the cooking time the same.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal choice for busy families who want a delicious homemade dinner without the hassle. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!