Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
If you’re searching for a quick, creamy, and utterly delicious dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce, all made in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, dinner can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavor and comfort. Here are a few reasons why this dish will become a staple in your meal rotation:
– **One-Pot Wonder**: Everything cooks in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
– **Customizable**: You can easily modify the recipe with different proteins or vegetables.
– **Perfectly Creamy**: The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream creates a sauce that’s irresistibly smooth.
– **Family Favorite**: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta, uncooked
- 1 pound chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth, water, or chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon Stone House Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Essential Tools for Success
Before you get started, gather these essential tools to make the cooking process smooth:
- Instant Pot: This is the star of the show that will help you create this meal quickly and efficiently.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the chicken and parsley.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfecting the sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring the pasta and sauce.
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe, Made Easy
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking with these easy steps:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by turning on the Instant Pot and selecting the sauté function. Add the diced butter to the pot. Once melted, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with the Stone House Seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and granulated garlic. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Pasta and Broth
Next, pour in the uncooked pasta and the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This step is crucial for even cooking.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 6 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Open the lid and add the cream cheese and heavy cream to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated. Then, add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Here are some seasonal swaps you can try:
- Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of color and flavor.
- Summer: Toss in cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a fresh twist.
- Fall: Incorporate mushrooms or spinach for an earthy element.
- Winter: Use roasted butternut squash for a sweet and creamy addition.
Mistakes That Ruin Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure not to sauté the chicken too long before pressure cooking, or it may become dry.
- Not enough liquid: Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth; otherwise, it may not cook evenly.
- Skipping the natural release: Allowing for a natural release helps prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or separating.
- Using low-quality cheese: Opt for fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor in your sauce.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:
If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, or use the microwave. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Your Top Questions
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly. Always check the package instructions for guidance.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese used. This will still yield a creamy sauce without the extra calories.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables such as broccoli or spinach during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Don’t Miss These
If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, check out these favorites:
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a delightful meal together. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta will surely impress. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Get ready to savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family. Happy cooking!
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Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by turning on the Instant Pot and selecting the sauté function. Add the diced butter to the pot. Once melted, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season with the Stone House Seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and granulated garlic. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Next, pour in the uncooked pasta and the chicken broth. Give it a good stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This step is crucial for even cooking.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 6 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and add the cream cheese and heavy cream to the pot. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated. Then, add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, though texture may change upon reheating.
