Looking for the perfect way to make Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta? This step-by-step guide will help you create a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce, all in one pot! Karen Peterson from “365 Days of Slow Cooking and Pressure Cooking” shares her family’s favorite recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with delicious Tuscan-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a crowd, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Keep reading to discover how to whip up this irresistible meal right in your Instant Pot!
Why You Will Love This Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe ❤️
There’s something magical about Tuscan chicken pasta, it’s creamy, comforting, and utterly satisfying. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- One-Pot Wonder: Cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce all at once for minimal cleanup.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Creamy Sauce: A combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and milk creates a velvety, restaurant-quality sauce.
- Customizable: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients List 🥘🧀
Here’s what you’ll need to make This Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe:
🍗 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
🍝 8 oz pasta (Italian catarbi, rotini, penne, or macaroni work well)
💧 2 cups water
🧂 2 tsp chicken base (or substitute with chicken broth)
🧈 2 tbsp butter
🌿 Fresh basil (about ½ cup, chopped)
🧈 4 oz cream cheese (half a brick)
🧄 ½ tsp garlic powder
🥛 ¾ cup milk (or heavy cream, half-and-half, or evaporated milk)
🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🍅 ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained if oil-packed)
🌶️ ¼ tsp black pepper
🧂 ¼ tsp kosher salt (or table salt)
🥬 2 handfuls fresh spinach (optional, for added nutrition)
Optional Garnish: Extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Step-by-Step Instructions 📋
Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly creamy Tuscan chicken pasta:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Measure out the pasta, water, chicken base, butter, and other ingredients for easy access.
2. Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot
- Place the chicken into the Instant Pot.
- Add the pasta on top, followed by 2 cups of water and 2 tsp of chicken base. Stir gently to combine.
- Add 2 tbsp of butter, ensuring it’s distributed evenly to prevent sticking.
3. Pressure Cook
- Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing.
- Press the Manual/Pressure Cook button and set the timer for 3 minutes.
- While the Instant Pot builds pressure, roll and chop fresh basil into thin strips for garnish.
4. Natural Pressure Release
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, carefully turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure.
5. Sauté & Add Creamy Sauce
- Open the lid and stir the contents. There may be some excess liquid, but this will thicken as you proceed.
- Turn on the Sauté function. Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, and milk. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce begins to thicken.
6. Incorporate Cheese & Seasonings
- Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ¼ tsp salt. Mix well.
7. Add Spinach & Basil
- Toss in the chopped spinach and basil. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts, which should take about 1–2 minutes.
- Turn off the Instant Pot or switch it to the Keep Warm setting.
8. Serve
- Scoop the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!
For more tips on Instant Pot cooking, check out The Instant Pot Pressure Cooker Ultimate Guide
Pro Tips & Variations 💡
Want to elevate your Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta? Try these expert tricks:
- Add Veggies: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini before adding the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Switch Up Proteins: Substitute chicken with Italian sausage or shrimp for a different twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a keto-friendly version.
- Storage Hack: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Storage & Reheating Tips 🥢
Leftovers happen, and that’s okay! Here’s how to store and reheat your dish:
- Storage : Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating : Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to prevent the sauce from separating. Avoid microwaving for best results.
Don’t forget to browse related recipes like Instant Pot Chicken Soup with Vegetables
FAQ About This Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe❓
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
A: Yes, but fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that’s hard to replicate. Use 1 tbsp of dried basil if fresh isn’t available.
Q: What can I substitute for cream cheese?
A: Heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk can work as substitutes, though the texture may vary slightly.
