Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that combines convenience and flavor in just 15 minutes? Meet the Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta—a creamy, cheesy delight that will have your family asking for seconds! This one-pot wonder is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome choice for busy nights. With succulent chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a rich Parmesan sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Dive in to discover how easy it is to whip up this mouthwatering meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breast into 1-inch cubes, measuring out broccoli florets, and grating Parmesan cheese.
- Add cubed chicken breast to the Instant Pot, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring the meat is partially submerged.
- Add uncooked penne pasta on top of the chicken, distributing evenly without stirring.
- Place broccoli florets on top of the pasta layer.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode at high pressure.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing for quick pressure build-up and pasta cooking.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick release of pressure.
- Open lid and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop the chicken and broccoli and measure out your ingredients in advance. This way, you can have everything ready to go when you start cooking.
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when seasoning the chicken. This is your chance to infuse flavor right from the start!
- Layering is Key: When adding the ingredients to the Instant Pot, remember to layer them as instructed. This helps ensure the pasta cooks perfectly without clumping together.
- Quick Release Caution: Be careful when performing the quick release; the steam can be hot. Use a kitchen towel or an oven mitt to protect your hand.
- Creamy Consistency: For an even creamier sauce, let the dish rest for a few minutes after stirring in the heavy cream and Parmesan. This will allow the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a delicious finishing touch that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 140mg
