Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and convenient one-pot meal that is ready in just 30 minutes. This recipe combines juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The hearty flavors and creamy texture make this dish truly stand out, ensuring it’s a hit on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for those hectic days.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in the Instant Pot.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and parmesan creates a luscious sauce that envelops every bite.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and tomatoes, this dish offers great flavor along with health benefits.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you will need some essential kitchen tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up the cooking process by using pressure cooking, allowing you to prepare meals quicker than traditional methods.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s coating and helps in scraping off any stuck bits for added flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta:

For the Seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Main Dish

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 regular boneless (skinless) chicken breasts (or 4 smaller ones)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup evaporated canned milk
• 3 cups shell pasta
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups parmesan (grated)
• 4-5 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

Add salt, pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to a large shallow bowl. Stir to combine all spices evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Once it’s hot, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the chicken in the seasoning mix until fully coated on both sides. Place the chicken into the pot and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from pot and set aside on a plate; cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

If needed, add one tablespoon of olive oil to the pot while still on Sauté mode. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring occasionally until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Broth

Incorporate Italian seasoning and chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the mixture. Stir well before adding chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Milk

Stir in shell pasta and evaporated milk gently. Place the browned chicken breasts on top of this mixture.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Cover and seal the lid of your Instant Pot. Ensure that the valve is set to Sealed. Change settings to manual mode, adjusting cook time to 4 minutes on High Pressure.

Step 7: Quick Release

When cooking time is complete, do a quick release by moving the valve to Vent. Carefully remove the lid once pressure has been released.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove chicken from pot to a cutting board; cover with foil again. Select Sauté mode once more. Add cubed cream cheese into the pot; stir gently for about one minute until blended smoothly.

Step 9: Add Parmesan and Spinach

Sprinkle in grated parmesan cheese while stirring gently for another minute until combined. Finally, add fresh spinach; stir well until wilted slightly before turning off the pressure cooker.

Step 10: Serve

Cut chicken into cubes before adding back into pasta mixture. Give everything one final gentle stir before serving immediately garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes enhances the flavors and makes for a satisfying dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Extra Parmesan: Add more grated parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an irresistible combination.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it for easier blending.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sauté until golden brown, but don’t cook through to avoid dryness.
• Stir Gently: When mixing ingredients in the pot, stir gently to keep the chicken intact and ensure even coating with sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to tweak spices according to your preference for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes can elevate your Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its creamy goodness.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and flavorful side.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a nutritious option.
3. Quinoa Salad: A colorful mix of quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds a healthy grain element.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil is a low-carb alternative that pairs well with creamy dishes.
5. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Chickpeas mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese provide protein and texture.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or grains offer a hearty addition while being visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to ensure a delicious meal.

• Skipping the Seasoning – Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always coat the chicken in the spice mix for maximum taste.
• Not Scraping the Pot – Ignoring stuck bits at the bottom can cause burning. Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape and release any caramelized flavors.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking pasta for too long in the Instant Pot can turn it mushy. Remember, 4 minutes on High Pressure is perfect for al dente texture.
• Forgetting to Release Pressure Quickly – Delaying the quick release may overcook your dish. Once done, promptly switch the valve to Vent for best results.
• Neglecting Storage Tips – Storing leftovers improperly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to use airtight containers for refrigerator or freezer storage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute shell pasta with any short pasta like penne or rotini that cooks similarly.

How do I customize Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap spinach for kale according to your preference.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative if you want a lighter option.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives available at most grocery stores.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken and replace it with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms and chickpeas along with vegetable broth.

Final Thoughts

Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. This versatile dish allows you to experiment with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy customizing it with your favorite veggies or protein options!