Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
From the moment I first tasted Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan, I was hooked. It was one of those dishes that made my taste buds dance and left me dreaming of creamy sauces and tender poultry. I remember hosting a cozy dinner party at home, and I wanted to impress my guests with something delicious yet easy to prepare. The best part? The Instant Pot made it a breeze! Imagine the aroma of sizzling garlic filling your kitchen, the sight of bubbling marinara sauce, and the sound of cheese melting into a glorious, gooey layer over the chicken. It was the perfect evening, filled with laughter, good food, and delightful memories.
Recipe Snapshot
8 mins
5 mins
3 mins
Easy
400 kcal
32 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
22 g
Instant Pot
The Charm of This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is how quickly it comes together. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.
2. Flavorful Ingredients
This dish leverages the rich flavors of fresh ingredients like garlic, chicken, and marinara sauce. The combination of Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese enhances the overall taste, giving you that comforting, savory experience. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, making it a favorite among family and friends.
3. Versatile and Customizable
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you want to add more veggies, swap out the proteins, or experiment with spices, the sky’s the limit. This dish can adapt to your cravings and creativity.
4. A Crowd-Pleaser
Whenever I serve Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan, I can always count on it to impress. It’s a fantastic dish for gatherings or family dinners, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful centerpiece on any dinner table.
5. Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s something uniquely comforting about Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. The melty cheese, tender chicken, and hearty sauce evoke feelings of home, making it a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food.
6. Healthy without Sacrificing Flavor
While it’s indulgent, Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan can also be a healthier option. By incorporating lean chicken and controlling the amount of cheese and sauce, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free. It’s all about balance and enjoying delicious food while staying mindful of what you eat.
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Shopping List
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for crafting the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan. Each component plays a crucial role in building the wonderful layers of flavor that this dish offers. From the aromatic garlic to the rich marinara sauce, every item contributes to the overall experience. Let’s take a look at what you need:
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil – This will help sauté the garlic and add richness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced – Essential for that aromatic base that enhances flavor.
- 1.5 cups prepared marinara sauce – The heart of this dish, bringing a robust flavor.
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the sauce.
- Freshly ground black pepper – A simple seasoning that enhances overall taste.
- 4 thin chicken cutlets, about 12 ounces total – The star protein that absorbs all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds an earthy note to the dish.
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, grated – For that gooey, melty topping.
- Chopped basil, for garnish (optional) – A fresh touch that brightens the dish.
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan Instructions
Making Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is a delightful journey. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Let’s dive into the cooking process!
- Start by using the sauté function of your Instant Pot. Set it to low, if possible, and pour in the olive oil. Allow it to heat up for a minute or so.
- Add the garlic slices to the pot. Sauté them gently until they start to turn golden, which should take about 2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for an incredible meal.
- Next, stir in the marinara sauce, along with 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese and a generous 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Now, increase the sauté heat to medium. While it heats up, season the chicken cutlets with kosher salt, dried oregano, and additional black pepper to taste. This step brings out the flavors in the chicken.
- Gently nestle the seasoned cutlets into the sauce, taking care to overlap as little as possible. Spoon some of the sauce over the top to ensure the chicken is covered.
- Lock the lid into place, ensuring it’s securely sealed. Set your Instant Pot to cook on low pressure for 3 minutes. This short time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once the cooking time has elapsed, carefully perform a manual release of the pressure. This step is crucial to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- After releasing the pressure, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese and the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan cheese evenly over the cutlets. This will create a wonderfully cheesy topping.
- Cover the pot with the lid, but don’t lock it on. Let it sit for about 4 to 5 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt beautifully over the chicken.
- If you’d like a deeper flavor and a bit of crispiness, consider broiling the cheese. Preheat your broiler, positioning a rack about 4 inches from the heat source. Carefully scoop the chicken and sauce into a greased small baking sheet, taking care to keep the melted cheese on top. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
- Finally, sprinkle with chopped basil, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Times: Make sure to watch the cooking time closely. The Instant Pot cooks food quickly, and even a minute can make a difference for tender chicken.
- Layering the Ingredients: When layering the chicken and sauce, aim for minimal overlap. This helps the flavors meld evenly.
- Cheese Melting: For the best melting cheese, use fresh mozzarella. It creates that gooey texture we all love!
- Pressure Release: Always perform a manual release when specified. This prevents the chicken from becoming overcooked.
Customization Ideas
Every dish can benefit from a little personalization. Here are some exciting ideas for customizing your Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it lasts up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The crispiness of the salad balances the creamy chicken.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with eggplant cutlets or portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
- Serving Style: Instead of serving over pasta, try it on a bed of sautéed spinach for a lighter option.
Serve This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan With
This delightful dish can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- With Pasta: Serve Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan over a bed of your favorite pasta. The marinara sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti or penne.
- With Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish.
- For Lunch: This dish makes amazing leftovers for lunch. Just reheat and enjoy!
- For Celebrations: It’s perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
- Seasonal Pairings: Consider serving it with seasonal vegetables during the summer or roasted root vegetables in the winter for a hearty meal.
- With Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce, making for a complete comfort feast.
- For Ramadan: This dish can be a lovely addition to your iftar table, bringing warmth and flavor after a day of fasting.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together flavor, comfort, and convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself and experience the joy it brings to the table. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a comforting meal. Gather your loved ones, serve this dish, and enjoy the smiles it brings!
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1.5 cups prepared marinara sauce
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 thin cutlets chicken, about 12 ounces total
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, grated
- Chopped basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Using the sauté function (on low, if possible), heat the oil in the pressure cooker pot. Stir in the garlic and cook until just turning golden, about 2 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Increase the sauté heat to medium. Season the chicken with the salt, oregano, and pepper to taste. Nestle the cutlets into the sauce, overlapping as little as possible, then spoon the sauce over to cover the chicken.
- Lock the lid into place and cook on low pressure for 3 minutes. Manually release the pressure.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and the remaining 1 tablespoon Parmesan evenly over the chicken. Cover the pot with the lid (but don’t lock it on) and let it sit for 4 to 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve as is or, for deeper flavors and a little bit of crispiness, broil the cheese until golden and bubbling: Heat the broiler with a rack 4 inches from the heat source. Scoop the chicken and sauce into a greased small rimmed baking sheet, trying to keep the cheese on top. Broil until the cheese has browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Sprinkle with basil, if desired.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze this dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it lasts up to three months.
- Tip 3: Serve with a fresh garden salad for a crisp counterpoint.
- Tip 4: Add red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Tip 5: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with eggplant or portobello mushrooms.
