What To Know
- With the help of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delectable meal in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop.
- Then, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Just follow the instructions in the recipe, but increase the cooking time for the pasta according to the package directions.
Craving a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish? Look no further than chicken alfredo, a classic pasta dish that is sure to satisfy. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delectable meal in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this easy and delicious chicken alfredo recipe for the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 pound fettuccine or penne pasta
Instructions:
1. Prep the Instant Pot:
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Adjust the temperature to “More.” Once the pot is hot, add the olive oil.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Aromatics:
Once the chicken is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Season and Deglaze:
Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine. Then, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Break it into smaller pieces if necessary to fit. Pour in enough water to cover the pasta by about 1 inch.
6. Pressure Cook:
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 5 minutes.
7. Quick Release:
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release of pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
8. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Once the pressure is released, open the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook on the “Sauté” function for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and is creamy.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken alfredo over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Variations:
- Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this dish, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
- Cheese: You can use a different type of cheese in place of Parmesan, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère.
- Protein: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or tofu.
- Sauce: For a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese.
Tips:
- Use a good quality fettuccine or penne pasta for the best results.
- If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Just follow the instructions in the recipe, but increase the cooking time for the pasta according to the package directions.
- Serve the chicken alfredo immediately, as the sauce will thicken as it cools.
What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo:
- Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad is a great side dish for chicken alfredo.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, are a healthy and delicious addition to this meal.
Storage:
- Leftover chicken alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze chicken alfredo for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
The Final Touch:
Chicken alfredo is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized to your liking. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to find your perfect combination. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Instant Pot chicken alfredo recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and let’s indulge in this creamy, cheesy goodness!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Just follow the instructions in the recipe, but increase the cooking time for the pasta according to the package directions.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: For a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese. You can also simmer the sauce for a few minutes longer.
Q: What are some good side dishes for chicken alfredo?
A: Some good side dishes for chicken alfredo include a simple green salad, Caesar salad, crusty bread, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
