Irresistible Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta Recipe

The aroma of fresh basil, the rich taste of chicken, and the comforting embrace of pasta come together in a symphony of flavors with Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta. Imagine digging into a bowl where each bite bursts with the freshness of homemade pesto, creamy goodness, and tender chicken—it’s like a hug from your favorite Italian grandmother. butternut squash chicken casserole.

This dish is more than just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made it during a frantic weeknight dinner rush when takeout seemed like the only option. With my Instant Pot by my side, I discovered that good food could come together in minutes without sacrificing flavor. Now, it’s my go-to for impressing guests or treating myself after a long day.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta

For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here; adjust based on your appetite or number of guests.
• Fresh Basil Pesto: A good quality store-bought pesto works wonders, but feel free to whip up your own for that personal touch.
• Pasta (like Penne or Fusilli): Any short pasta shape will do; they hold onto the sauce like it’s their job.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep flavors balanced while ensuring every bite remains savory.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds creaminess and depth; it’s the cherry on top!

For some extra flair:

• Olive Oil: A drizzle before serving enhances the rich flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients—trust me, you won’t want to be running around looking for that elusive jar of pesto midway through cooking!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add a splash of olive oil and toss in your chicken breasts. Sauté them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 5 minutes should do the trick.

Step 3: Add Liquid

Pour in one cup of chicken broth and stir it around lovingly so those brown bits from the bottom get incorporated into the sauce—it’s where all the flavor hangs out!

Step 4: Toss In The Pasta

Add your uncooked pasta directly into the pot alongside half a cup of pesto. Give everything a gentle stir; don’t worry if it looks chaotic—it’s going to come together beautifully.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to manual high pressure for just four minutes. Yes, you read that right—four minutes! It’s like magic.

Step 6: Release and Serve

Once cooking is complete, use the quick release method carefully. Open up that lid to unveil an aromatic feast! Stir in more pesto and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and inviting.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with olive oil for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken in your Instant Pot first to lock in those juicy flavors. Then, cook the pasta while preparing the fresh pesto sauce. This sequence ensures everything blends perfectly, resulting in a creamy, dreamy dish that’s ready in no time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even veggies for a delightful vegetarian option. Add some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.

Sometimes I make this dish when friends visit, and their eyes light up at that first bite. The laughter and compliments remind me why I love cooking—it’s all about sharing joy through food!

FAQs :

What is Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich pesto sauce. The Instant Pot makes cooking this meal easy by combining all ingredients in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. pumpkin sage risotto You can use any type of pasta you like, and the dish typically includes ingredients such as garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without much fuss.

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

Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and cook the pasta. You can enjoy a hearty meal in no time! Just remember to account for the time needed for natural pressure release after cooking, which can add a few more minutes. Overall, it’s a quick and satisfying option for dinner.

Can I customize Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. You could also substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options. Feel free to experiment with various pestos too; you might try sun-dried tomato pesto or even homemade versions for unique flavors that suit your taste. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Is Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta healthy?

Yes, Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta can be a healthy meal choice when made with wholesome ingredients. Lean chicken breast provides protein, while whole grain or gluten-free pasta options are available for added fiber. Using fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil in your pesto adds healthy fats and antioxidants. To make it even healthier, consider adding more vegetables into the mix or using less cheese while still keeping that delicious flavor intact.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta :

In summary, Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Pasta is an effortless yet delightful recipe that brings together tender chicken and flavorful pesto in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish allows you to customize ingredients according to your preferences while remaining healthy and satisfying. slow cooker chicken alfredo With minimal prep time and cleanup required, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again as a family favorite! Enjoy diversifying your meals with this quick and tasty option.