Instant Pot Pesto Chicken Pasta
Instant Pot Pesto Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, creamy basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the stress. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it promises to delight everyone at your table while saving you time in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode with a splash of olive oil. Cook seasoned chicken until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Add chicken broth and scrape the bottom to release flavorful bits. Stir in pasta, ensuring it’s submerged.
- Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Allow a natural release for 5 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
- Stir in basil pesto and heavy cream until well combined. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and mix gently.
- Serve warm, garnished with cherry tomatoes if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1½ cups)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For a lighter dish, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.- Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.