Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, decadent pasta dish that brings the classic Italian flavors right to your kitchen in no time. This one-pot meal melds tender chicken with al dente fettuccine, all enveloped in a rich, luscious Alfredo sauce that’s made with just a few simple ingredients. The ease of cooking in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also infuses the pasta with incredible flavor, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta creates a satisfying dish that will please even the pickiest eaters. The Instant Pot cooks everything together, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the dish moist and tender. Plus, it fits well into a busy lifestyle, allowing you to prepare a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for families or weeknight entertaining without the fuss.
Tips and Tricks
- Sauté First: Use the sauté function of your Instant Pot to sear the chicken first for added flavor. This locks in moisture and gives the chicken a delicious, golden crust.
- Pasta Cooking Time: Remember that the pasta will cook in the residual heat after pressure cooking, so it’s crucial to not overcook it during the pressure cooking phase.
- Add Cheese Gradually: When adding parmesan cheese, do it gradually and stir continuously to prevent clumping for a smoother sauce.
- Use Chicken Broth: Cooking the pasta in chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor significantly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this dish ahead of time by marinating the chicken in your favorite spices and letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. The sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to make the entire dish ahead, cook it and store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four days.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and add your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with a garlic parmesan or Alfredo sauce with herbs for a twist on the traditional flavor.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can easily make this on the stovetop by boiling the pasta separately and combining it with the sauce in a skillet.
How to Serve
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo in large, shallow bowls for an elegant presentation. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color, and sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. You can also drizzle a little olive oil for richness and serve with garlic bread or a fresh side salad to balance the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a classic gin and tonic or a light mojito can also work well. For sides, consider a Caesar salad or steamed asparagus, and for dessert, a light tiramisu or panna cotta pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, portion out the leftovers in freezer-safe containers, where they can last for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess and prevent drying out.
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese. For gluten-free options, swap regular fettuccine for gluten-free pasta. Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free if necessary.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, incorporate fresh asparagus or peas for a vibrant touch. For fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sautéed kale for a seasonal twist. During summer, fresh tomatoes or zucchini can add a refreshing flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- What can I substitute for fettuccine? You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
- How long does it take to cook? The total time, including prep and cooking, is around 30 minutes, with just a few minutes of actual pressure cooking.
Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, decadent pasta dish that brings the classic Italian flavors right to your kitchen in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 8 ounces fettuccine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and cook until slightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom to deglaze the pot.
- Break the fettuccine in half and add it to the pot. Ensure it’s submerged in the broth.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release and carefully open the lid.
- Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 641Total Fat: 39gSaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 203mgSodium: 1136mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 48g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Instant Pot Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is an experience that combines ease and indulgence. The flavors come together beautifully, and the convenience of a one-pot meal makes it a go-to for any home cook. Whether you are enjoying a cozy night in or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy every creamy bite!
