Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo is everything you want in a quick and satisfying meal. The creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken pair seamlessly with the noodles, and it all comes together in one pot, saving you time on cleanup. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized with various ingredients to suit your tastes. Plus, the pressure cooking process ensures everything is cooked to perfection, leaving you with minimal effort for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound uncooked fettuccine noodles

• 4 cups water or broth

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (leave whole)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup parmesan cheese, shaved, shredded, or fresh grated

• ¼ cup parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Break the fettuccine noodles in half and scatter them in a crisscross pattern in the Instant Pot. Add water (or broth), pushing the noodles under the liquid to submerge.

2. Lay the whole chicken breasts on top of the noodles.

3. Pour in the heavy cream, add the butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure release valve to the "Sealing" position. Choose "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" on high pressure for 5 minutes.

5. Once the cook time ends, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes (do not skip this step). Afterward, carefully turn the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining steam. Press "Cancel" and open the lid.

6. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F using a meat thermometer.

7. Transfer the chicken to a covered dish and set it aside for 5 minutes.

8. Stir the pasta gently to distribute the remaining liquid and cover the pot. Let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the liquid.

9. Stir in the parmesan cheese and toss until the noodles are evenly coated.

10. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot, mixing it into the pasta.

11. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try using shrimp, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives like tofu or mushrooms.

• Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, and swap parmesan with a non-dairy cheese.

• Veggies: Add spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat or warm on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It is best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature. If you must use frozen chicken, the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta shapes, such as penne or rigatoni. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the pasta.

3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

You can use alternatives like half-and-half, milk, or a non-dairy substitute, but the texture and richness of the sauce may vary slightly.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, try adding extra parmesan cheese or a little cornstarch dissolved in water. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the sauce thicken naturally.

5. Can I use broth instead of water?

Yes, using chicken or vegetable broth will add more flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check the ingredients in the broth or cream for any hidden gluten.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the chicken's internal temperature and make sure the pasta absorbs the liquid properly.

8. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Follow the instructions carefully, including the 10-minute natural pressure release, to ensure the chicken is tender and fully cooked without being overdone.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little extra liquid to restore the sauce's creaminess.

10. Can I add more garlic or cheese?

Feel free to adjust the garlic and cheese to your preference. More garlic will give the dish a bolder flavor, and extra cheese will create a richer sauce.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo is a must-try recipe that combines the convenience of pressure cooking with the comfort of a classic creamy pasta dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and the magic of your Instant Pot, you'll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. Enjoy this easy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!