Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Few dishes live up to their name as perfectly as Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce—all cooked in a single pot for maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Its romantic nickname isn’t just for show; the rich, Italian-inspired flavors are so irresistible that they might just inspire a marriage proposal.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

What makes this dish stand out is its effortless elegance. The Instant Pot locks in flavors while drastically cutting down cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties. The sauce, a blend of heavy cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan, clings to every bite of pasta, while sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that balances the richness. Spinach lends a pop of color and nutrition, rounding out the dish into a complete meal.

Preparation Phase and Essential Tools

Before starting, gather your tools and ingredients. Proper preparation ensures a smooth cooking process and avoids last-minute scrambling.

Key Tools and Their Roles

• Instant Pot (6-quart or larger): The cornerstone of this recipe, it pressure-cooks the pasta and chicken simultaneously while infusing flavors.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: Essential for evenly dicing the chicken and mincing garlic. Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters, especially with broth and seasoning ratios.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps deglaze the pot and stir ingredients without scratching the inner pot.
• Box grater: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Preparation Tips for Success

• Chop ingredients uniformly: Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Mince garlic finely: This distributes flavor more evenly than large chunks.
• Prep ingredients in advance (mise en place): Measure and organize everything before turning on the Instant Pot to avoid overcooking or burning.

Ingredients List

For the best results, use high-quality ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts keep it lean.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s depth.
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided: Low-sodium broth prevents an overly salty dish.
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta: Holds sauce well; substitutes include fusilli or rigatoni.
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the creamy sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Creates a velvety texture.
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped: Provides a sweet-tart contrast.
• 1 cup fresh spinach: Adds color and nutrients.
• Fresh basil (optional garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh aroma.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the chicken: Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and chicken, cooking for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
2. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the pot: Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits (this prevents burn warnings).
4. Layer remaining ingredients: Add the remaining 3½ cups of broth, then the uncooked pasta (do not stir). Sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper evenly over the top.
5. Pressure cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
6. Release pressure: Once cooking completes, perform a quick release by turning the valve to Venting.
7. Finish the sauce: Open the lid and stir the pasta. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted, then mix in heavy cream until smooth.
8. Incorporate veggies: Fold in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, stirring until the spinach wilts (about 1 minute).
9. Serve immediately: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Pasta alternatives: Gluten-free or whole-grain pasta works but may require adjusted cooking times.
• Cream substitutions: Half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while sautéing the chicken.

This creamy, flavorful pasta dish is rich enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal. Serve it in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a few torn basil leaves adds a finishing touch that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

For a well-balanced meal, consider portion sizes. This recipe serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. If serving as part of a larger spread, smaller portions allow guests to enjoy side dishes without feeling overwhelmed by the richness of the pasta.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the simplest recipes can go wrong without proper technique. Here are the most frequent pitfalls and how to ensure perfect results every time:

• Overcooking the Pasta – The Instant Pot cooks pasta quickly, and residual heat continues softening it after pressure cooking. Stick to the recommended 4-minute cook time to avoid mushy noodles.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step – Failing to scrape the browned bits from the pot after sautéing can trigger a burn warning. Always deglaze with a bit of broth before pressure cooking.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Pre-packaged Parmesan contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly for a velvety texture.
• Stirring the Pasta Before Cooking – Layering the pasta on top of the broth (without stirring) prevents clumping and ensures even cooking. Stirring too soon can lead to uneven texture.
• Not Adjusting for Altitude – At higher elevations, liquids evaporate faster. If you live above 3,000 feet, add an extra ¼ cup of broth to compensate.

How to Perfect the Recipe

For those who want to take this dish from great to extraordinary, a few expert tweaks can make all the difference:

• Sear the Chicken for Deeper Flavor – While the recipe calls for a quick sauté, browning the chicken in batches (without crowding the pot) adds a richer, caramelized taste.
• Use Homemade Chicken Broth – If possible, swap store-bought broth for homemade. The depth of flavor is noticeably better.
• Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon – A small amount of fresh lemon juice (about 1 teaspoon) brightens the creamy sauce without overpowering it.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the pasta to sit for 2–3 minutes after adding the cream helps the sauce thicken slightly.

8 Best Side Dishes to Complement the Meal

Since Marry Me Chicken Pasta is rich and hearty, lighter sides help balance the meal. Here are the best pairings:

• Garlic Bread – A classic choice for soaking up the creamy sauce. Opt for a crusty baguette brushed with garlic butter and toasted.
• Simple Green Salad – A mix of fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs add color and texture.
• Grilled Caesar Salad – Charred romaine hearts with Caesar dressing offer a smoky contrast.
• Crusty Artisan Bread – A rustic loaf is perfect for tearing and dipping into the sauce.
• White Wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio) – A crisp, slightly acidic wine complements the creamy, cheesy flavors.
• Antipasto Platter – Cured meats, olives, and marinated artichokes make a great starter while the pasta finishes cooking.
• Sautéed Garlic Green Beans – Quick-cooked green beans with minced garlic add a fresh, crisp element.

While Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is straightforward to make, a few professional techniques can elevate the dish from good to exceptional:

• Reserve Pasta Water Before Draining – If the sauce thickens too much after cooking, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. The starchy liquid helps maintain a silky texture.
• Adjust Seasonings at the End – Taste the finished dish before serving. Depending on the saltiness of your broth and Parmesan, you may need an extra pinch of salt or black pepper.
• Let the Dish Rest Before Serving – Allowing the pasta to sit for 2–3 minutes after adding the cream helps the sauce thicken slightly and cling better to the noodles.
• Substitute Sun-Dried Tomatoes – If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes sautéed in olive oil make a good alternative.
• Add Protein Variations – For a twist, try shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly (shrimp only needs 1–2 minutes under pressure).

Proper Storage and Reheating Instructions

This pasta tastes best fresh but stores well for later meals. Follow these guidelines to maintain quality:

Refrigeration

• Let the pasta cool completely before storing (about 30 minutes).
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• The sauce will thicken when chilled. When reheating, add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to restore creaminess.

Freezing (Without Cream for Best Results)

• For longer storage, freeze the pasta before adding the heavy cream and spinach.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• When ready to serve, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, then stir in the cream and fresh spinach.

Reheating Methods

• Stovetop: Warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add liquid as needed to prevent drying.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Based on popular searches and reader inquiries, here are answers to common questions:

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes. Follow the same steps in a large skillet or Dutch oven:

1. Sauté chicken and garlic as directed.
2. Add broth, pasta, and seasonings.
3. Simmer uncovered for 11–13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
4. Stir in remaining ingredients off the heat.

How can I make this dish lighter or healthier?

• Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• Substitute whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber.
• Increase spinach or add other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

Why did my Instant Pot show a “Burn” warning?

This usually happens if:

• The pot wasn’t properly deglazed after sautéing.
• There wasn’t enough liquid (always use at least 3½ cups broth).
• Ingredients were stirred before pressure cooking (pasta should be layered on top).

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s not recommended. Frozen chicken releases excess water, diluting flavors and affecting texture. Thaw it first for even cooking.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan instead of cheese. Note that the flavor profile will differ slightly.

What if my sauce is too thin?

Simmer the pasta in Sauté mode for 2–3 minutes to thicken, or mix in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water.

Final Thoughts and Serving Inspiration

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a foolproof dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, its creamy texture and bold Italian-inspired taste make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

For a complete meal, revisit the side dish suggestions in Part 2, or experiment with your own additions. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a practical choice for meal prep.

Now that you’ve mastered the recipe, avoid common pitfalls, and learned storage tricks, it’s time to enjoy this irresistible pasta. One bite, and you’ll understand how it earned its romantic name!

Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta

This creamy and flavorful one-pot dish combines tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and al dente pasta in a rich Parmesan and cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this Instant Pot version of Marry Me Chicken Pasta is comforting, quick, and full of Italian-inspired flavor.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time8 minutes mins

Total Time18 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Servings: 6

Calories: 646kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth divided
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• Optional garnish: fresh basil

Instructions

• Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and chicken pieces, cooking for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
• Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a spatula.
• Add the remaining 3½ cups of chicken broth. Layer the uncooked penne pasta on top (do not stir). Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper.
• Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 4 minutes.
• Once the cooking time ends, quick release the pressure by switching the valve to Venting.
• Open the lid and stir the pasta mixture. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
• Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
• Add the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, stirring until the spinach is wilted.
• Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
• Notes
• You can substitute penne with rotini, fusilli, or ziti.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.