Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Every once in a while, I stumble upon a recipe that effortlessly marries convenience with flavor, and Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is one of those treasures. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. Then, you remember that trusty Instant Pot sitting on your counter, ready to save the day. With its ability to lock in flavors and textures, it transforms simple ingredients into something special, all in one pot. The aroma of tomatoes, basil, and garlic fills your home, while the pasta cooks to perfection alongside juicy pieces of chicken. This is comfort food at its best, and it’s just waiting for you to dig in!
Recipe Snapshot
22 mins
10 mins
12 mins
Medium
450 kcal
30g g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15g g
Instant Pot
Why This Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Hits Different
Quick and Easy
One of the standout features of Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is how quickly it comes together. You can have a hearty dinner ready in a fraction of the time it takes to make traditional pasta dishes. No more waiting for water to boil or monitoring multiple pots; everything cooks harmoniously in your Instant Pot.
Flavor Explosion
The combination of fresh ingredients—like ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty lemon juice—creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate. The garlic adds depth, while the parmesan cheese brings that creamy richness we all love.
One-Pot Wonder
No one enjoys doing dishes, and this recipe minimizes cleanup thanks to its one-pot method. You can prepare, cook, and serve all from the Instant Pot, making it a lifesaver for busy evenings.
Great for Meal Prepping
Whether you’re looking to prepare meals for the week or simply want to enjoy leftovers, this pasta dish is perfect. It stores well in the fridge and can easily be reheated, maintaining its deliciousness!
Kid-Friendly
This recipe is not only a hit among adults but also a crowd-pleaser for kids. The flavors are familiar and mild enough for little ones to enjoy, and you can easily adjust the garlic level to suit their tastes.
Customizable
One of the best things about Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can add different vegetables, switch up the protein, or even play with the spices to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients to Make Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
When crafting the perfect dish, the ingredients are everything. In Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, each component plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful meal. The key players include tender chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all working together to deliver a comforting and satisfying experience.
- 2 large chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces – The lean protein that forms the base of this dish, ensuring it’s hearty and filling.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs adds a warm, savory note that enhances the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of spice to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds a healthy fat that contributes to the overall richness.
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes undrained – Provides a juicy, acidic base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups water – Necessary for the pasta cooking process, ensuring it remains tender.
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta – The pasta of choice, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese freshly from a block – This adds a creamy, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 4 plum tomatoes diced – Fresh tomatoes add a burst of flavor and texture to the dish.
- 1 small red onion diced – Gives a sweet and savory crunch that complements the other ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic minced – Essential for a rich, aromatic base.
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil loosely packed – Fresh herbs provide brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of acidity that brightens everything up.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor further during the cooking process.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Complements the other spices in the recipe.
Recipe Directions for Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Cooking Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is easier than you might think, and it all happens in your Instant Pot. Here’s how to bring it together:
- Start by preparing the bruschetta topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the plum tomatoes, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and set it aside to let the flavors meld.
- Next, add the chicken pieces into the Instant Pot. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, salt, ground black pepper, and olive oil. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until the chicken is coated in the seasonings.
- Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta. Spread it over the chicken mixture, ensuring it’s laid evenly. Then, pour in water until it just covers the pasta. This is crucial for cooking it properly.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is set to the SEALING position. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting and adjust the cooking time to 3 minutes at high pressure. Remember that it will take about 10 minutes for the pot to come to pressure before cooking starts.
- When the cooking cycle ends, quickly release the steam by turning the valve to VENTING. Carefully remove the lid once all the steam escapes. You’ll see that the pasta has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Give everything a good stir, mixing in the parmesan cheese and the bruschetta topping you prepared earlier. Make sure all ingredients are well combined. Cover the pot with the lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld further.
- Right before serving, garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation!
Things Worth Knowing
Things Worth Knowing
- Thickening Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream right before serving.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap the chicken for a plant-based alternative or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Freezing Tips: This dish freezes well, so you can double the recipe and store half for a busy night later on.
- Cooking Time Variations: Always check the pasta for doneness as different brands may have varying cooking requirements.
Helpful Hints
Cooking can be a delightful experience, and a few hints can make it even better when preparing Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive the texture.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Cooking Fresh: Always use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried herbs just don’t compare.
Serving Ideas for Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta, you have plenty of delightful options:
- Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Serve it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Weekend Gatherings: Impress your guests during weekend get-togethers—pair it with wine and garlic bread for a complete experience.
- Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy the remaining pasta as a filling lunch option. It’s easy to pack and reheat.
- Seasonal Variation: In the summer, add some grilled vegetables for a seasonal twist!
- Kids Parties: This dish is a hit with children, making it a great choice for birthday parties or playdates.
- Serve Warm: Ensure to serve it warm for the best flavor and experience; reheating gently over low heat works wonders.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that captures the essence of comfort food. Its rich blend of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a must-try for busy weeknights. So why not gather your ingredients and give this recipe a shot? I’m confident it will become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.
Instant Pot Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cut into 1 inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes undrained, See note 1 for sub
- 2 cups water
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta See note 2
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese freshly from a block
- 4 plum tomatoes diced
- 1 small red onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil loosely packed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start by preparing the bruschetta topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the plum tomatoes, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and set it aside to let the flavors meld.
- Next, add the chicken pieces into the Instant Pot. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, salt, ground black pepper, and olive oil. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until the chicken is coated in the seasonings.
- Now it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta. Spread it over the chicken mixture, ensuring it’s laid evenly. Then, pour in water until it just covers the pasta. This is crucial for cooking it properly.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the vent is set to the SEALING position. Select the PRESSURE COOK/MANUAL setting and adjust the cooking time to 3 minutes at high pressure. Remember that it will take about 10 minutes for the pot to come to pressure before cooking starts.
- When the cooking cycle ends, quickly release the steam by turning the valve to VENTING. Carefully remove the lid once all the steam escapes. You’ll see that the pasta has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Give everything a good stir, mixing in the parmesan cheese and the bruschetta topping you prepared earlier. Make sure all ingredients are well combined. Cover the pot with the lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld further.
- Right before serving, garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation!
