Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan: Crispy, Cheesy & Done in Minutes

Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is a delectable and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich marinara sauce and a melty layer of mozzarella cheese. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering all the classic flavors of traditional Chicken Parmesan but cooked in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot. With its ease of preparation and bold flavors, this dish quickly becomes a family favorite, perfect for serving over pasta or with a side of crusty bread.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan for its incredible depth of flavor, ease of preparation, and the convenience of a one-pot meal. The Instant Pot allows the chicken to absorb the savory notes of garlic, herbs, and marinara sauce while maintaining its moisture, resulting in perfectly cooked chicken every time. With minimal clean-up and quick cooking, this recipe suits busy lifestyles and is a fantastic option for meal prep. Plus, it aligns well with low-carb diets when paired with zoodles or served over cauliflower rice.

Tips and Tricks

• Searing the Chicken: Take the time to sear the chicken in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking. This step enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful golden crust.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Add them just before serving for a vibrant finish.
• Layering Flavors: Consider adding a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce for added depth. Just be sure to let it simmer a bit before adding the chicken.
• Avoiding Burn Notice: To prevent a burn notice, ensure enough liquid (broth or marinara) is used when cooking the chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

You can easily prepare components of this recipe in advance. Marinate the chicken in the sauce for up to 24 hours before cooking to infuse flavor. You can also chop the garlic and measure out the spices to save time on the day you plan to cook. Cooked chicken parmesan can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

• Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Swap out marinara for pesto to create a fresh twist on the classic.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Chicken: Stuff the chicken breasts with a mixture of spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella before cooking for an elevated version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether for a lower-carb version.
• Different Proteins: Try this recipe with turkey cutlets or even eggplant for a vegetarian option.

How to Serve

Serve the finished Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan over a bed of al dente spaghetti or zoodles for a low-carb option. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil. For a delightful presentation, serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this delicious dish with a glass of Chianti or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, a refreshing lemon basil spritzer complements the flavors beautifully. For dessert, consider serving a classic tiramisu or a light fruit sorbet to cleanse the palate after the rich chicken dish.

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Chicken Parmesan for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Equipment Needed

• Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
• A large cutting board
• A sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs for flipping chicken

Dietary Adaptations

To make this recipe dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a gluten-free version, swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free varieties or omit them entirely. If you want to make it vegan, substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas and use a plant-based cheese.

Seasonal Adaptations

In the summer, use fresh tomatoes and basil for the sauce instead of canned. During the winter months, consider adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
• What can I substitute for marinara sauce? You can use any pasta sauce you like or make your own from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
• What’s the best way to ensure my chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Detailed Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Pressure Cook: Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ for 8 minutes.
6. Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
7. Add Cheese: Open the pot, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken, and close the lid for another 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve over your choice of pasta or zoodles.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings the family together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!