One-Pot Wonder: Easy & Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Experience all your favorite Chicken Parmesan flavors transformed into a quick, easy, and undeniably delicious one-pot pasta dinner! This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Dish is set to become your new go-to family favorite, bringing comfort and joy to your weeknight meals without the fuss. This recipe may contain affiliate links, highlighting products that I truly adore and use myself.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Among the countless reasons to adore the Instant Pot, its ability to perfectly cook pasta is truly exceptional. Imagine a warm, comforting, and incredibly cheesy pasta meal that materializes in under 30 minutes, all while leaving you with minimal dishes to wash. That’s the magic the Instant Pot brings to your kitchen, making hectic weeknights feel a little less chaotic and a lot more delicious.
This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe perfectly embodies that convenience and flavor. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary triumph that will have your family asking for seconds. My own family devoured this dish, and I’m thrilled for you to experience its incredible taste and simplicity. What’s more, if you haven’t yet joined the Instant Pot craze, don’t worry! I’ve also included comprehensive instructions to make this delectable dish right on your stovetop, ensuring everyone can enjoy this new favorite.
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Key Ingredients for Your Delicious Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also wonderfully budget-friendly and comes together with a handful of common ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting one-pot meal:
Choosing Your Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken breast tenderloins: Diced into bite-sized pieces and generously seasoned with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Tenderloins cook quickly and stay moist, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can also be used, just be sure to dice them evenly.
The Essential Aromatics: Onion & Garlic
- ½ onion: Yellow onions are my personal favorite for their balanced flavor, but any onion you have on hand will work beautifully to build a rich flavor base.
- olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a touch of richness. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil if that’s your preference. For a lighter option, you can even use a splash of broth to sauté the aromatics and chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that aromatic punch. As always, feel empowered to “measure with your heart” and add more if you’re a garlic enthusiast!
Sauce & Seasonings: The Heart of the Dish
- ½ cup water or broth: This liquid is crucial for deglazing the pot, ensuring you scrape off any flavorful brown bits (fond) from the bottom. This step is vital in the Instant Pot to prevent the dreaded “burn message.”
- 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes: Opting for canned crushed tomatoes over pre-made jarred sauce is a cost-effective choice and allows you to control the seasoning. If you prefer, a high-quality jarred marinara sauce can be substituted.
- 2 T fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried): Fresh basil offers a bright, vibrant flavor that truly elevates the dish. However, dried basil is a perfectly acceptable alternative and still contributes that classic Italian aroma.
- 1 tsp oregano: Dried oregano is perfectly fine here, adding a warm, earthy note that complements the other flavors.
Pasta Perfection: Gluten-Free & Beyond
- 2 ¼ cups of gluten-free pasta: For those avoiding gluten, a good quality gluten-free pasta works wonderfully in this recipe. If you don’t require a gluten-free option, any short pasta shape (like penne, rotini, or ziti) will do. For those following specific dietary plans like FIXers, using whole wheat pasta is recommended if not using GF.
Cheese, Please! Mozzarella & Parmesan
- 1 cup of freshly shredded or cubed mozzarella: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, creating that perfect gooey texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese or use your favorite plant-based mozzarella (Violife is a great choice!).
- ⅓ cup of Pecorino Romano or high-quality Parmesan Cheese: These cheeses add a sharp, salty depth of flavor that is quintessential to Chicken Parmesan. Locatelli is a fantastic brand for Pecorino Romano.
- (Optional) ¼ cup breadcrumbs: A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top, especially if toasted, adds a delightful “parm crunch.” Gluten-free breadcrumbs work well here, but you can certainly skip this step for a equally delicious, softer finish.
Mastering Your Instant Pot: Tips for Perfect Pasta
Using an Instant Pot makes this Chicken Parmesan Pasta incredibly simple, but a few key tips can ensure perfect results every time. Follow these guidelines for a flawless one-pot experience:
Preventing the “Burn” Notice
- Always Deglaze: After sautéing your chicken and vegetables, add your water or broth and use a wooden spoon to thoroughly scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These flavorful pieces, known as “fond,” can trigger the Instant Pot’s “burn” message if left unstirred. This simple step is critical for a successful pressure cook.
- Read All Directions First: This is a golden rule for any recipe, but especially vital for Instant Pot dishes. Familiarizing yourself with the sequence of steps will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Watching a video demonstration (if available) can also be incredibly helpful!
The Art of Layering Ingredients
- Layering is Key: When adding the remaining ingredients, follow the layering instructions precisely. Place the uncooked pasta over the chicken and vegetables first. Then, spread the crushed tomatoes, mixed with basil and oregano, evenly over the pasta. Do NOT stir the sauce into the pasta. The pasta needs to be mostly submerged in liquid to cook properly, and stirring the thick tomato sauce to the bottom can prevent adequate liquid distribution, again risking a burn notice.
Pressure Cooking Time Explained
- Short Cook Time, Big Flavor: Pasta cooks surprisingly fast in the Instant Pot. Three minutes at high pressure for most short pasta shapes is usually sufficient, as the pasta continues to cook as the pot comes to pressure and during the quick release. After the cook time, perform a quick release of pressure. This stops the cooking process promptly, preventing overcooked, mushy pasta.
- Melting the Cheese: Once the pressure is released and it’s safe to open the lid, stir in the Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top and place the lid back on the Instant Pot for a few minutes. The residual heat will perfectly melt the mozzarella into a gooey, irresistible layer.
No Instant Pot? No Problem! Stovetop Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Absolutely! While the Instant Pot offers unparalleled speed and convenience, you can absolutely make this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Pasta on your stovetop. The stovetop method is just as easy and yields a deliciously comforting result. You’ll find detailed stovetop instructions in the recipe card below. I’ve personally tested both methods, and I can confirm that the stovetop version is a fantastic alternative for those without a pressure cooker. I’m also planning to experiment with a slow cooker version in the new year, so stay tuned for that update! If any of you brave home cooks decide to test a slow cooker method before I do, please let me know your results!
The Crispy Topping: Breadcrumbs & Beyond
Do you really need to add the breadcrumb topping? Not at all! While I personally love the textural contrast of a little crunch and crispy, bubbly cheese on top of my casserole-style dishes, this pasta is equally delicious without it. The topping simply adds an extra layer of “Chicken Parm” authenticity, reminiscent of the traditional baked dish.
If you own an Instant Pot Crisplid or an air fryer lid for your Instant Pot, this recipe is the perfect opportunity to use it! Simply top your finished pasta with your desired amount of cheese and breadcrumbs, place your air fryer lid on top of your Instant Pot, and broil for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as it can brown quickly, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy!
No special lid? No problem! You can achieve a similar effect by transferring the pasta mixture into an oven-safe casserole dish. Top it generously with extra mozzarella and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs. Then, broil it in a preheated oven for a few minutes until the cheese is beautifully golden, bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are toasted to perfection. This step is entirely optional but highly recommended for those who appreciate that classic baked Chicken Parmesan finish.
Meal Prep Made Easy: Enjoying Leftovers
Yes, this Chicken Parmesan Pasta is absolutely fantastic for meal prep! In fact, like many pasta dishes, I often find it tastes even yummier the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. This makes it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. Prepare a larger quantity, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat meals for several days. I especially love portioning out the extra servings for quick and satisfying lunches – though I usually have to hide them from my husband first!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm gently in a saucepan on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish truly makes meal planning a breeze.
More Irresistible Instant Pot Pasta Dishes
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of making pasta in your Instant Pot, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of quick and easy pasta recipes waiting to be explored. Check out some of these other fantastic Instant Pot pasta dishes that are sure to become new family favorites:
- Healthy Instant Pot Baked Ziti: A classic comfort food, made quicker and healthier in your pressure cooker.
- Instant Pot Enchilada Pasta: A creative fusion dish bursting with Tex-Mex flavors.
- Instant Pot Sausage Broccoli Pasta: A simple, flavorful, and complete meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
- Pumpkin Pasta with Spicy Sausage: A seasonal delight with a kick, offering unique and cozy flavors.
- Healthy Instant Pot Chili Mac: The ultimate hearty and satisfying one-pot meal that combines two favorites.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast tenderloins diced into pieces and seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- ½ onion diced
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup water or broth to scrape off any burned bits
- 2 ¼ cups gluten free pasta
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes 1 large can
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup freshly shredded or cubed mozzarella
- ⅓ cup Pecorino Romano or high quality Parmesan Cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional
Instructions
Instant Pot Method
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Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and allow it to heat until it reads “Hot”. Add the olive oil and diced chicken (seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder). Brown the chicken lightly, then add the diced onions and cook until they become tender and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the water or broth. Using a wooden spoon, vigorously scrape off any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This crucial step prevents the “burn” message. Next, layer the uncooked pasta evenly over the chicken and veggies.
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In a separate bowl, mix the fresh or dried basil and oregano into the crushed tomatoes. Carefully layer this seasoned tomato mixture over the pasta, ensuring all noodles are covered. Do not stir the contents of the pot.
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Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cook time to three minutes on high pressure.
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Once the cook time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. When the float valve drops and it’s safe, carefully open the lid. Stir in the Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top and replace the lid (or use a glass lid) for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey layer.
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For an optional crispy topping, you can transfer the pasta mixture to a broiler-safe dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is brown and bubbly. Alternatively, if you have an air fryer lid, place it on your Instant Pot and broil until crispy.
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Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh basil, if desired!
Stovetop Method
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Heat a large Dutch oven or a deep, wide pot over medium-low heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the diced, seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through, then remove it from the pot and set aside. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil and diced onions to the pot, cooking until the onions are tender and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add 3 cups of water or broth and the can of crushed tomatoes to the pot. Stir in the uncooked pasta and all the seasonings (basil and oregano). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly after the heat is turned off.
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Once thickened, return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in half (1/2 cup) of the mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan/Pecorino Romano cheese. Turn off the heat.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the pot again for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a creamy, delicious layer as the pasta cools slightly.
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For an optional crispy topping, transfer the pasta mixture to a broiler-safe dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is brown and bubbly.
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Serve hot, with extra Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese if desired, and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Enjoy your homemade one-pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta!
Video
Notes
WW: 7 points (per serving) [Calculated using reduced fat cheese and GF penne pasta]
Nutrition