Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Does it get any better than creamy, dreamy, one-pot pasta? This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving hearty comfort food without the cleanup. My favorite thing about it? The whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes, and it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for feeding the whole family or impressing guests with minimal effort!

If you’re after rich, velvety pasta you can whip up in a flash, this recipe will make your dinner dreams come true!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.
• Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—kids and adults alike will love it.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less dishwashing and more time to enjoy the goodness.
• Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it your own with your favorite seasonings.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. You can also use precooked chicken to save time.
• Pasta: Penne or fettuccine are my go-to’s, but any short pasta will work.
• Chicken Broth: The base for the sauce—it adds depth of flavor.
• Heavy Cream: For that signature Alfredo richness.
• Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated is a must for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Garlic: Aromatic and essential for the Alfredo sauce.
• Butter: Adds a velvety finish to the final dish.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for perfectly balanced flavor.

Pro Tip:

Use a good-quality Parmesan and grate it finely. Pre-shredded cheeses can sometimes make the sauce grainy because of anti-caking agents.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a dash of Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add butter and sear the chicken on both sides until golden (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Add the Pasta and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the pasta. Make sure the pasta is submerged but not stirred to prevent sticking.
5. Pressure Cook: Place the seared chicken on top of the pasta. Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 9 minutes. Quick-release the pressure once done.
6. Create the Sauce: Remove the chicken, shred or slice it, and set aside. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and an extra pat of butter. Mix well until the sauce is creamy.
7. Combine Everything: Add the chicken back in and stir until everything is coated in the sauce.
8. Serve & Enjoy: Plate up your easy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo, garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley, and dig in!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Avoid Overcooking: Use the pasta cooking time on the box as a guide—set the pressure cook time to about half the recommended stovetop time.
• Want a Thicker Sauce? Let the Alfredo sauce sit in the warm Instant Pot for a few extra minutes—it will thicken as it sits.
• Don’t Skip Deglazing: After searing the chicken, use a splash of broth to scrape up the browned bits for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and double up on vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even a glass of crisp white wine for a restaurant-quality meal.

FAQs

• Can I Use Frozen Chicken? Yes! Increase the pressure cook time by 3-4 minutes and skip searing.
• How Do I Store Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
• Can I Freeze This? While you can freeze it, the sauce’s texture may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Recipe Card

Let me know how this dreamy pasta turned out for you! Don’t forget to drop a comment or tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations!