Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a dish that blends flavors and textures in a way that feels both special and comforting. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, tossed with penne pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s that perfect mix of delicious and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or even a romantic evening in. The best part? Everything comes together in one pot, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. This means less time fussing over the stove and more time enjoying a delightful meal with your loved ones. So, grab your apron, and let’s make this unforgettable dish that could very well make your partner want to pop the question!

Why This Recipe Works

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings together a blend of savory flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of romance, all cooked effortlessly in one pot. The pressure-cooking technology locks in flavors and moisture, ensuring each bite is rich and delicious. By keeping the ingredients simple yet quality, this dish highlights the natural flavors of the chicken, cheese, and vegetables. Plus, since it cooks quickly, you won’t spend forever in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

You’re going to love this dish for so many reasons. Firstly, it’s versatile enough to work as an everyday meal or a special occasion feast. The creamy sauce and tender chicken feel comforting, destined to impress anyone sitting at your dinner table. With the quick cooking time, you’ll barely break a sweat. And, since everything is made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze. That means more quality time with friends and family, enjoying this mouthwatering pasta dish.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• Fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Instructions for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Sauté the Chicken

To start, press the sauté button on the Instant Pot. Once you see “hot” displayed, it’s time to add the olive oil. Stir in the chicken pieces and cook them until they get a nice browning—this takes about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and keep stirring for about 30 seconds. This way, you infuse the oil with flavor.

Deglaze the Pot

Next, pour in ½ cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pot. Do this by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This step is super important for flavor and helps prevent any burning warnings from your Instant Pot.

Add Pasta and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the rest of the chicken broth, the uncooked penne pasta, along with the drying Italian seasoning, paprika, and pepper. Just a quick note here—don’t stir the mixture yet. This delay allows everything to cook evenly.

Pressure Cook the Dish

Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot. Choose manual high pressure and set the cooking time to 4 minutes. Make sure the pressure release valve is set to sealing so the cooking process works its magic.

Release Pressure and Stir

Once your Instant Pot beeps to signal the end of cooking, switch the pressure release valve to venting to release pressure quickly. When it’s safe, carefully unlock the lid and give everything a good stir.

Incorporate Cream and Cheese

This is the exciting part! Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and watch it melt into the dish. Then, add the heavy cream along with the fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix until everything is beautifully combined.

Serve

To finish off, garnish your dish with fresh basil. This adds a pop of color and flavor, perfect for impressing your guests. Enjoy your Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta; it’s a dish that’s meant to be savored!

Serving Suggestions

To complete your meal, consider pairing this dish with a light side salad or some warm garlic bread. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, enhances the creamy flavors, creating an elegant dining experience.

Tips for Success

• Take care not to overcook the chicken, which can make it dry.
• Adjust the amount of sun-dried tomatoes based on your preference for their distinct flavor.
• For extra creaminess, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Feel like switching things up? You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Don’t hesitate to toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta are also great choices if you’re looking to accommodate dietary considerations.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce nice and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you use frozen chicken, adjust the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Sure! Just swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based alternative and skip the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and keep them in the fridge. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, use a saucepan on low heat and add a little chicken broth or heavy cream to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is all about expressing love through food. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it perfect for any occasion, or even just a cozy night in. With this easy recipe, you’ll create a dining experience that will leave everyone admiring their plates. Enjoy every delicious bite, and cherish the moments shared around the table!

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