Name: Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 white onion (chopped); 1/2 lb boneless and skinless chicken (cut into pieces); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon red chilli flakes; 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about a busy weeknight when you can whip up a meal that feels both comforting and satisfying. This is exactly why I love making Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside out, with tender pieces of chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce coating the pasta. Imagine coming home after a long day, and in just a matter of minutes, you have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Using the Instant Pot makes it all the more simple; you can sauté, cook, and serve all in one pot without the hassle of multiple pans to clean up.

I remember the first time I made this dish. I had friends over for dinner, and they were skeptical when they saw I was using an Instant Pot. But once they took their first bite, their doubts melted away. The rich flavors and satisfying textures transformed our evening into a delightful feast. Now, it’s a staple in my recipe rotation, perfect for everything from casual dinners to special gatherings.

The combination of garlic, onion, and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta, while the broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some greens, making it not only tasty but balanced too. Plus, it comes together so quickly that you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
500 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Instant Pot, Wooden Spoon

The Charm of This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta

There are countless reasons to love this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta. Here are just a few:

1. Time-Saving Wonder

With the Instant Pot, you can prepare a hearty meal in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. The pressure cooking feature means you can have dinner on the table in just minutes.

2. One-Pot Meal

No one enjoys doing dishes after cooking. This recipe is prepared entirely in the Instant Pot, meaning you’ll only have one pot to clean up afterwards!

3. Nutrient-Rich

The addition of broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also packs in essential vitamins and minerals. You can feel good about serving this dish to your family.

4. Versatile Ingredients

This recipe is flexible. You can switch out the chicken for shrimp or even a vegetarian option if you prefer. It’s a great base that allows for creativity.

5. Kids Love It

Kids are often picky eaters, but the creamy sauce and fun-shaped pasta in this recipe tend to win them over quickly. It’s a family favorite!

6. Flavorful and Satisfying

With the bold flavors of garlic, onion, and a hint of oregano, this dish packs a punch that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

7. Perfect for Meal Prep

Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its delicious flavors.

Key Ingredients for Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta

The ingredients for Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta come together beautifully, creating a dish that is both comforting and nourishing. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The chicken adds protein, while the broccoli brings a fresh crunch. The heavy cream provides a rich base that envelops the pasta and chicken in creamy goodness. Together, they create a meal that is more than just a dinner; it’s an experience.

8 oz uncooked bow tie pasta or elbow macaroni – Choose your favorite shape for a fun textural contrast.
4 tablespoons olive oil – This creates a lovely base for sautéing.
1 cup broccoli florets – Fresh and vibrant, they add a great nutritional boost.
2 cloves minced garlic – Essential for that aromatic flavor.
1 chopped white onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
1/2 lb cut into pieces boneless and skinless chicken – The star protein of this pasta dish.
1 cup chicken broth – This enriches the sauce and enhances flavors.
1 cup heavy cream – Provides a creamy texture that makes the dish indulgent.
salt to taste – Essential seasoning for any dish.
1 teaspoon oregano – For fresh and fragrant herbs.
1 teaspoon red chilli flakes – Adds a touch of heat to balance the creaminess.
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese – A finishing touch that adds umami flavor.
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves – Brightens the dish with freshness.

Directions for Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Cooking Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a breeze, and you’ll love how simple it is to follow these steps. Let’s dive in and create a delicious meal together!

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until it’s hot, then add the broccoli florets. Sauté them until they’re al-dente, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. You want them to retain a bit of crunch. Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Next, in the same pot, add garlic, onion, and the pieces of chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute or until the chicken turns pale and white. This step is crucial for sealing in the flavors.
Once the chicken is cooked slightly, pour in the chicken broth, then add the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, oregano, red chilli flakes, and salt. Stir everything together nicely, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Now, gently add in the uncooked pasta to the pot. It’s important to stir just enough to ensure the pasta is submerged in the creamy broth. Be careful not to over-stir, as you want the pasta to cook evenly.
Close the lid of your Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing, especially if you have an older model. This is essential for pressure cooking.
Now comes the exciting part! Set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes for al-dente pasta. If you prefer it a little softer, add an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid, and you’ll be greeted by a delicious aroma!
Gently fold in the sautéed broccoli and fresh basil leaves into the pasta mixture. This adds a wonderful fresh flavor and color to the dish.
Finally, taste the sauce and adjust for salt and pepper as needed. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, it’s time to serve!

Things Worth Knowing

Pressure Cooking: The Instant Pot locks in moisture, which is why you only need to cook the pasta for a short time. This ensures it stays tender without becoming mushy.
Stirring the Pasta: Stir gently when adding the pasta to avoid breaking it. You want each piece to cook evenly.
Flavor Development: Sautéing the onion and garlic first builds a flavor base, making your dish more aromatic and delicious.
Quick Release Safety: When doing a quick release of the pressure, always use a towel or utensil to protect your hand from the steam.

Making Adjustments

Cooking is an art, and with Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta, you can definitely get creative! Here are some tips to adjust it to your liking:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months.
Pairing: Consider adding a side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal. A light green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
Variations: You can swap out the chicken for shrimp or turkey. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love heat, add more red chilli flakes.

What Complements This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Serving Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta can be an adventure on its own! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Garlic Bread: A crunchy slice of garlic bread is the perfect side to mop up that creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the hearty flavors of the pasta.
Wine Pairing: Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing drink.
Picnic Idea: This dish is great cold, making it a perfect addition to a picnic lunch.
Seasonal Variations: In the summer, pair with a fresh fruit salad. In winter, serve with roasted vegetables for added warmth.
Occasions: Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend gatherings with friends and family.

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli in the Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe. Just toss it in straight from the freezer when adding to the pot. However, you might want to slightly adjust the cooking time since frozen vegetables typically require a little longer to cook through. Keep an eye on the texture to ensure it remains crisp and not mushy!

If you’re looking to switch things up, there are many options to substitute for chicken in this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta. You can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly since different proteins can cook at different rates, ensuring everything is perfectly tender and flavorful.

Yes, you can make the Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta dairy-free by replacing the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or a cashew cream. Additionally, you can omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option. The dish will still be creamy and delicious while catering to dietary restrictions!

Storing leftovers of your Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta is simple! Place any remaining pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Easy Instant Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta is truly special for its incredible blend of flavors and its effortless preparation. It’s a dish that can transform a hectic weeknight into a comforting family meal with minimal fuss. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how it can become a quick favorite in your kitchen. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table!