Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy and rich Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan in a luxurious sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Your family and friends will be 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 Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• For the Vegetables
• 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
• With Garlic Bread
• Over Fresh Greens
• Topped with Extra Cheese
• Paired with a Salad
• With Wine
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• 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 long does it take to make Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• What are some customization options for this recipe?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can have this delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and creamy Parmesan creates an unforgettable taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by using different pasta shapes or adding vegetables.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for serving guests.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This appliance allows for quick cooking under pressure, enhancing flavors while saving time.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing chicken and vegetables safe and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Vegetables

• 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:
1. Add the olive oil.
2. Stir in the chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic:
1. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth:
1. 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:
1. Layer uncooked penne pasta on top without stirring.
2. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper over the pasta.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close and lock the lid:
1. Ensure the pressure valve is set to Sealing.
2. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release

When cooking is complete:
1. Carefully turn the pressure release valve to Venting for a quick release.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Unlock the lid:
1. Stir everything well to combine.
2. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.

Step 8: Add Final Ingredients

Add spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes:
1. Stir until well combined.

Step 9: Serve

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

How to Serve Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This rich and creamy Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a perfect pairing that complements the creamy sauce.

Over Fresh Greens

• Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Place the pasta over a bed of fresh greens for a light and refreshing contrast.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added richness and flavor.

Paired with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and balances the creaminess of the pasta.

With Wine

• White Wine: Enjoy a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, to enhance your dining experience.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor. Opt for high-quality chicken and fresh sun-dried tomatoes.
• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Deglazing the pot helps prevent the burn notice by removing stuck-on bits from cooking chicken.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If using larger pieces of chicken, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Mix After Pressure Cooking: Stirring well after cooking helps evenly distribute flavors and ensures all ingredients are combined.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste before serving; add salt or adjust seasonings as needed to suit your palate.

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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 elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings out natural sweetness and adds texture.
3. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a refreshing complement to the creamy pasta.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Swap traditional pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that still satisfies.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor, making it an enjoyable side during summer months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the chicken can lead to less flavor. Always take the time to brown the chicken first for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recipe’s order and don’t overload your Instant Pot.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Neglecting to scrape up browned bits can cause burning. Make sure you deglaze thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring the Quick Release: Allowing a natural release instead of a quick one may overcook the pasta. Use quick release as instructed for perfect texture.
• Using Regular Chicken Broth: Opting for regular broth can make the dish too salty. Stick with reduced-sodium broth for better flavor control.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish made with chicken, pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes cooked entirely in an Instant Pot.

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

The total time is about 28 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with similar shapes like rigatoni or rotini without affecting the overall taste.

What are some customization options for this recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition, or swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. With easy customization options available, you can adapt it to suit your family’s tastes. Give this delightful recipe a try; it might just become your new weeknight favorite!

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