If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together quickly and delivers big on flavor, you have to try this Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s a one-pot wonder combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and classic Italian flavors in a creamy, cheesy sauce that tastes like it simmered all day. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or craving a cozy dinner, this dish hits all the right notes—and it does so without piling on dishes. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the tender, seasoned chicken to the rich, cheesy sauce and the bite of zesty Italian dressing. These simple pantry staples come together to create a dish as beautiful on the plate as it is on the palate.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a luscious base for sautéing and enriches the sauce’s creaminess.
- 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and perfectly seasoned to soak up Italian herbs.
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses a deep, aromatic garlic flavor that complements the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix.
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides gentle warmth and a hint of spice.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil: Introduces classic herbal notes essential to Italian cooking.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, aromatic hint that balances the tangy tomato sauce.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a woodsy, fragrant touch that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked: Perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce with every forkful.
- 1½ cups marinara sauce: The heart of this dish’s rich, tomato-based flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Helps cook the pasta while adding savory depth to the sauce.
- ¼ cup zesty Italian dressing: A secret ingredient that brightens the flavors and adds delicious tang.
- ¾ cup mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly, creating gooey, bubbly cheese goodness.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that’s essential for true Chicken Parmesan vibes.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish): Freshens up the dish with a pop of color and mild herbal brightness.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, basil, oregano, and rosemary to create the perfect Italian seasoning blend. Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with this mixture. Then, turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting, add butter, and brown the chicken on both sides until golden. This step locks in juices and builds rich flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Add Pasta, Marinara, and Broth
Once the chicken is beautifully seared, add the uncooked penne pasta evenly across the pot. Pour in marinara sauce, chicken broth, and the zesty Italian dressing. Make sure to spread everything evenly rather than stirring so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. This layering method guarantees perfectly cooked pasta that’s soaked in flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 6 minutes. This short, intense cooking time cooks the chicken through and cooks the pasta to tender perfection, all while allowing the sauce ingredients to marry beautifully. After cooking, allow a quick release of the pressure.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Melt
Open the lid and sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Replace the lid and let the residual heat melt the cheeses for a couple of minutes. This creamy, cheesy layer is what makes this Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Finish by sprinkling chopped parsley over the top for a fresh contrast in both flavor and appearance. Now your hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish is ready to serve.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While chopped parsley adds a lovely freshness, you can also sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving adds an extra layer of richness and shine.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or oven-roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for mopping up every bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating your Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls and topping with a fried fresh basil leaf or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture. It’s also a fantastic option to bake briefly under the broiler with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden crust if you love a little crispiness on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more after resting, making it just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze before adding any fresh garnishes to preserve their color and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until warmed through and creamy again.
FAQs
Can I use other pasta shapes in the Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully to hold the sauce, any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli is perfect too. Just keep cooking times similar to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
What if I don’t have zesty Italian dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing on hand, a mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs works as a great substitute. This ingredient adds a bright, tangy depth that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free butter and substitute the mozzarella and parmesan with plant-based cheese alternatives. Cooking times remain the same, and you’ll still enjoy fantastic flavor.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
The 6-minute pressure cook time followed by quick release is designed to cook boneless chicken breasts fully. For extra assurance, you can check the internal temperature—it should register at least 165°F (74°C).
Is it possible to double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients, but be cautious not to overfill your Instant Pot. Ensure there’s enough space for pressure cooking, and you might need to increase cooking time slightly to accommodate the extra volume.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is one of those meals that effortlessly brings comfort and delight to your dinner table. Its quick prep, savory layers of flavor, and minimal cleanup make it a true weeknight winner. Trust me, once this cheesy, saucy, and flavorful dish becomes part of your repertoire, it’s going to be a tasty favorite you come back to again and again. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
