Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken
There’s something utterly comforting about a bowl of Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that felt like a warm hug. With the hustle and bustle of my day, I needed a recipe that was not only satisfying but also quick to whip up. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and creaminess, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. As the aroma wafted through my kitchen, I could hardly contain my excitement. Each bite is filled with tender chicken, a luscious sauce, and a touch of parmesan that elevates the whole experience. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or enjoying it on its own, this recipe quickly became a family favorite.
Recipe Snapshot
15 mins
5 mins
10 mins
Medium
400 kcal
40 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Instant Pot, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Grater, Chef’s Knife
The Best Thing About This Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken
Quick and Easy
One of the things I love most about this Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken is how effortlessly it comes together. In less than thirty minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready that tastes like you’ve been slaving over the stove for hours. This is a lifesaver for busy weeknights!
Rich and Creamy Sauce
The sauce in this dish is simply divine. Combining the smoothness of cream cheese with the savory notes of chicken broth and parmesan creates a luxurious coating for the chicken. Each forkful envelops your taste buds in a delightful embrace.
Customizable
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can easily adjust the seasonings or toss in your favorite veggies to tailor it to your family’s tastes. Adding a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or fresh herbs can transform the profile while keeping it equally delicious!
Healthy and Satisfying
Using lean chicken breasts and fresh spinach makes this dish a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens and maintain a well-balanced meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is not only great for dinner but also works wonderfully for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for the week. Just heat it up, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch or dinner ready to go!
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike adore this dish! The creamy texture and mild flavors mean it’s appealing to even the pickiest eaters. It’s always a hit when I serve it during family gatherings.
What to Buy for Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken

When selecting ingredients for Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken, aim for fresh, quality products. The key players here are the chicken, cream cheese, and parmesan. Each ingredient contributes to the rich, creamy texture and savory flavor of the dish. The spinach adds a lovely color and nutritional boost, making this a well-rounded meal.
- 1½ lb boneless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen): The star of the dish, providing protein and a tender texture.
- ½ – ¾ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.
- ½ tsp cracked pepper: Offers a subtle kick to the dish.
- ½ tsp sea salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken to bring out its natural flavors.
- 4 – 6 oz cream cheese: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich.
- ½ cup grated parmesan: Provides a nutty, savory flavor that complements the creaminess.
- 1 cup freshly chopped spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness.
- ½ – 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds freshness and aroma to the dish.
Recipe Directions for Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken

Making Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken is incredibly straightforward and perfect for anyone, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Add ½ cup chicken broth to the bottom of the Instant Pot. This will create the necessary steam for cooking.
- Place the boneless chicken breasts on top of the broth. If you have a trivet, you can use it for even cooking, but it’s not essential.
- Season the chicken generously with sea salt, then sprinkle the cracked pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over the top. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to infuse flavor.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is set to sealing. Set the function to pressure cook on high for 8 to 10 minutes for thawed chicken, or 11 to 12 minutes if using frozen chicken.
- Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release by carefully turning the vent. This helps to release the pressure quickly.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F. If it’s not quite there, you can seal the lid and cook for a few more minutes.
- If the chicken is ready, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to mix with the sauce.
- Switch the Instant Pot to the “sauté” setting. Stir in the spinach, cream cheese, and parmesan until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add the remaining chicken broth gradually until it’s to your desired consistency.
- If you like, toss the sauce with some cooked pasta or simply serve it over rice for a complete meal. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan before serving.
Things Worth Knowing
- Uniform Chicken Size: Always use chicken breasts that are similar in size for even cooking. If you have one that’s larger, consider pounding it thin.
- Cooking Time Awareness: The cooking time can vary based on whether your chicken is thawed or frozen. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it’s properly cooked.
- Sealing is Key: Remember to set the knob to “sealing” before cooking; otherwise, you’ll lose steam and your chicken won’t cook as quickly.
- Manual Reading: Make sure to read your pressure cooker’s manual to understand its specific functions and safety features.
Making Adjustments

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! Here are some tips to adjust as needed:
- Storage: After cooking, allow the Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to three months; just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Different Pastas: Try serving this sauce with different pasta shapes for variety; it works well with rotini, penne, or even zoodles!
What to Serve With Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken
- Pasta: Serve this dish over your favorite type of pasta for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Rice: A bed of fluffy rice makes for a great pairing, soaking up all that creamy sauce.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
- Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables can elevate the meal and add nutritional value.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even meal prep for a busy week.
- Storage Tips: Don’t forget that leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a perfect dish to enjoy multiple times!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken is a dish that combines comfort and ease, making it a go-to for any dinner. With its rich flavors and quick preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. I encourage you to give it a try; your family will thank you for it, and you’ll enjoy every delicious bite.

Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Grater
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts fresh or frozen
- 0.75 cup chicken broth more as needed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder plus more to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 6 ounces cream cheese cubed
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan
- 1 cup freshly chopped spinach
- 0.75 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Add ½ cup chicken broth to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the chicken breasts on top of the broth.
- Season the chicken generously with sea salt, then sprinkle cracked pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder over the top.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is set to sealing. Set the function to pressure cook on high for 8 to 10 minutes for thawed chicken, or 11 to 12 minutes if using frozen chicken.
- Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release by carefully turning the vent. Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F.
- If the chicken is ready, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Switch the Instant Pot to the “sauté” setting. Stir in the spinach, cream cheese, and grated parmesan until the cream cheese melts.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add the remaining chicken broth gradually until it's to your desired consistency.
- Serve over pasta or rice, garnishing with freshly grated parmesan.
Notes
- Tip 1: Use chicken that is uniformly sized for even cooking.
- Tip 2: Cooking time will vary based on the size of your chicken breast.
- Tip 3: Make sure you read the manual for your pressure cooker.
- Tip 4: Don’t forget to set the knob to “sealing” to keep the pressure inside.


