Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe ensures tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan come together in one pot to create an unforgettable dish. It’s a flavorful option that promises to impress everyone at the table!

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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 Pasta
• 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
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Garlic Bread
• Salad on the Side
• 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
• Can I use different pasta types for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How do I make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthier?
• What should I serve with Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• How long does Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta take to cook?
• Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cook time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in the Instant Pot, making cleanup easy and hassle-free.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy sauce offers layers of flavor that tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, allowing for creative variations.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker saves time by combining pressure cooking with sautéing, all in one device.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps scrape up browned bits from the pot, ensuring maximum flavor in your meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pasta

• 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 lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 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 from the bottom of the pot. This adds flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the remaining chicken broth. Place the 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 the Instant Pot. Ensure that the pressure valve is set to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release

When cooking is complete, carefully turn the pressure release valve to Venting to do 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 for that creamy texture.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Gently fold in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until they are evenly combined throughout the pasta.

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

Serving Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This communal style encourages sharing and conversation at the table.

Individual Plates

• Plate each serving with a generous scoop of pasta and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor, making each plate look restaurant-worthy.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread for dipping. The bread complements the creamy sauce and provides a delightful crunch.

Salad on the Side

• A fresh garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Toss mixed greens with vinaigrette for a light side option.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta ensures every bite is delicious. Follow these tips for a flawless dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance flavor and texture, making your dish taste homemade.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure that chicken pieces are cut evenly and not overcrowded in the pot to achieve uniform cooking and browning.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed after cooking. Feel free to add more salt or pepper based on personal preference.
• Let it Rest: Allow the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

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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 create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil and garlic creates a perfect balance with the creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing offer a crunchy contrast that complements the softness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light yet flavorful addition to your meal.
5. Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can serve as an exciting starter before indulging in pasta.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds freshness and heartiness alongside your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much liquid: Adding more broth than needed can make the pasta mushy. Stick to the recommended amount of 4 cups.
• Not deglazing properly: Skipping this step may lead to burnt flavors. Always scrape the browned bits off the bottom after sautéing.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough. Follow the cooking time closely and use a quick release.
• Ignoring ingredient order: Layering ingredients incorrectly can affect cooking results. Add pasta on top of other ingredients and do not stir before cooking.
• Forgetting to season adequately: Under-seasoning can result in bland pasta. Be sure to add Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper for flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or cream and stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta types for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with similar shapes like rigatoni or rotini without affecting the overall recipe.

How do I make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or cream in the recipe.

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

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

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

The total time is about 28 minutes, which includes prep, cooking, and pressure build-up time.

Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasonings. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Give it a try—you’ll love how quick and easy it is!

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