There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy, indulgent plate of chicken alfredo. But what if you could simplify the process without sacrificing flavor? Enter the Instant Pot, your secret weapon for transforming a time-consuming dish into a quick and easy weeknight favorite. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step through creating a scrumptious Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Gather your groceries and let’s dive in! You’ll need:
- 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups (475 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 8 ounces (225 g) fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipments
Before you start, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Instant Pot or pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo – Step By Step
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in your Instant Pot by selecting the sauté function. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful in the final dish.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
After you’re done browning the chicken, remove it and set it aside temporarily. Keep the Instant Pot on sauté mode and add the minced garlic to the pot. Stir the garlic around for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as this could impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta
Switch off the sauté function and carefully pour in the chicken broth. Use your wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This technique, also known as deglazing, will add depth to your sauce. Next, break the fettuccine pasta in half and scatter it evenly in the pot. Ensure that it is submerged in the broth to allow even cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Place the browned chicken breasts back into the pot on top of the pasta. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘sealing.’ Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ function and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This pressure cooking step is crucial as it speeds up the cooking time while ensuring the pasta and chicken become tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Natural Release
Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 5 minutes. Afterward, carefully turn the valve to ‘venting’ to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid once it is safe, and you’ll be greeted by a delicious aroma.
Step 6: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken breasts and set them aside on a plate. With the lid open, switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode once more. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the pot, allowing it to melt and form a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot. Mix well to coat the chicken and pasta with the alfredo sauce. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
This delightful dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a crisp garden salad. To elevate the meal, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and a crack of fresh black pepper before serving. Enjoy!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For more creaminess, feel free to add another quarter cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a richer flavor, and always remember to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Pack a Protein Punch: High Protein Chicken Alfredo
For those mindful of protein intake, consider using high-protein pasta alternatives made from lentils or chickpeas. Incorporating white beans or spinach into the sauce can also boost the nutritional profile without altering the familiar taste and texture of your chicken alfredo. Every bite is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition!
Low Carb Twist to Savor: Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Craving the deliciousness of chicken alfredo but want to keep it low-carb? Substitute fettuccine with spiralized zucchini or palmini noodles. These low-carb noodles absorb the creamy sauce well, allowing for a guilt-free indulgence that’s light on carbs but heavy on taste!
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture. Note that the pasta may absorb more sauce over time, so it’s helpful to keep extra cream or broth on hand.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can skip the browning step and add cooked chicken towards the end during the saucing stage.
- Can I freeze Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo?
Freezing is possible, but note that the texture of the pasta may alter slightly upon thawing.
- What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half and half or a non-dairy cream alternative can be substituted if needed, though results may vary.
- Is it possible to increase the spice level?
Sure! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce can provide a delightful kick.
- How can I make the sauce thicker?
A teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water can be stirred in during the sauce stage for additional thickness.
Your Next Culinary Adventure Starts Here!
We hope this Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo brings warmth and joy to your kitchen and dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. If you try it, let us know how it goes in the comments below, and don’t forget to share with family and friends who would love this comforting classic!
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- fettuccine pasta
- grated Parmesan cheese
- olive oil
- garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown in Instant Pot.
- Sauté garlic briefly in Instant Pot.
- Add broth and pasta, ensuring pasta is covered in liquid.
- Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes with chicken on top.
- Allow for natural pressure release, then vent remaining steam.
- Add cream and Parmesan, stirring until sauce is smooth.
- Slice chicken, return to pot, and stir well before serving.