Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken

There’s something truly magical about the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken. Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, you’ve just come home after a long day, and the thought of cooking dinner feels overwhelming. But then you remember this recipe. It’s not just any chicken dish; it’s a blend of creamy, savory, and rich flavors that create a comforting embrace with every bite. As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. The aroma fills my kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. It’s a meal that screams romance, perfect for date nights or even just a special dinner with loved ones. With the Instant Pot, it’s quick and effortless, allowing you to enjoy the moments that matter most. I love to serve it with a side of pasta or crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce, making it not just a meal, but an experience. You won’t believe how simple and delicious it is!

What’s In This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken

The ingredients for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken are a harmonious blend of flavors that work beautifully together. Each ingredient is carefully selected to create a rich, creamy sauce that enhances the tender chicken. The extra virgin olive oil provides a base flavor, while the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes add depth. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes introduces a tangy sweetness, perfectly complemented by the rich heavy cream and parmesan. Lastly, a handful of spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Together, they create a meal that’s not only delicious but also wholesome.

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed: This oil is essential for sautéing and adds a wonderful flavor base.
• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat (about 6 ounces each): The star of the dish, providing protein and substance.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevate the Italian-inspired flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock, use ¾ cup for an 8-quart model: Helps create a flavorful base and keeps the chicken moist.
• 1 (7 oz) jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped: Introduces a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce, making it indulgent.
• ½ cup grated parmesan: Adds savory depth and a delightful cheesiness to the sauce.
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves, optional: Adds nutrition and a pop of color to the dish.

Recipe Directions for Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken

Getting the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken ready is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The Instant Pot simplifies cooking, allowing you to focus on enjoying the flavors rather than worrying about the timing. As you follow these steps, you’ll see how easy it is to create a dish that’s both delicious and impressive.

1. First, turn the Instant Pot to sauté and add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to the inner pot. Let it heat for about 1 minute until shimmering. This initial step is crucial as it helps to brown the chicken, creating a rich flavor base.
2. While the oil is heating, season both sides of the 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. This seasoning process locks in flavor and ensures the chicken tastes great.
3. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken into the pot in a single layer. Brown them for about 2 minutes on each side until they achieve a lovely golden color. This browning step adds depth to the overall flavor profile. If your Instant Pot is small, you may need to work in batches.
4. After browning, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate. If cooking more chicken, repeat the browning process until all pieces are cooked.
5. Next, add 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Sauté these aromatics for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step infuses the oil with delicious flavor, which will carry through the entire dish.
6. Now, hit the cancel button to turn off the sauté function, and pour in ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot using a wooden spoon or spatula. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce.
7. Return the browned chicken to the inner pot. Add in the 1 (7 oz) jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained), a pinch of salt, and 1 cup heavy cream. Stir everything together so the chicken is well-coated in this rich mixture.
8. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the knob to the sealed position. To set the cooking time, select the manual or pressure cook setting and adjust the time to 5 minutes on high pressure. This is where the magic happens, cooking the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy.
9. Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can perform a quick release for the remaining pressure. This controlled release ensures that the chicken remains tender.
10. When it’s safe to open, carefully remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Lift the chicken onto a CLEAN platter to rest slightly while you finish the sauce.
11. Hit cancel to turn off the keep warm function, then switch back to sauté mode. Add in ½ cup grated parmesan and 2 cups baby spinach leaves. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. This final step enriches the sauce and infuses it with nutrients.
12. Serve the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle more parmesan on top if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

Ways to Customize

One of the best aspects of the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken is how easily it can be customized. Here are some suggestions that can elevate your dish even further:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking the chicken.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce and chicken together in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or over a bed of pasta. It also pairs well with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Spice Level: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. If you prefer it mild, reduce the amount; if you like a kick, add more!

What to Serve With Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken

When it comes to serving the Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken, the options are endless. Here’s how to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or penne for a heartier meal. The sauce complements pasta beautifully.
• Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving with roasted asparagus or green beans for a satisfying crunch and additional nutrients.
• Occasions: This dish is excellent for special occasions like dinner parties or cozy family gatherings. It’s sure to impress your guests!
• Seasonal Pairings: In autumn, pair with roasted squash or in summer with fresh corn on the cob for a seasonal twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and warmth. Each bite brings a sense of comfort and satisfaction that makes it worth preparing. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones; you’ll surely make lasting memories around the dinner table. Enjoy the deliciousness and let it inspire love in your home!

Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken is creamy, savory, and incredibly easy to make. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich sauce of sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan, perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal. You'll want to make this delicious recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus more if needed
• 4-6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts trimmed of fat (about 6 ounces each)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock use ¾ cup for an 8-quart model
• 1 jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes drained and roughly chopped (7 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream NO EXCEPTIONS
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves optional

Instructions

 

• Turn the Instant Pot to sauté, add 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil to the inner pot, and heat for 1 minute. While the oil is heating, evenly season both sides of 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
• Working in batches if needed, place the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the instant pot, and brown for 2 minutes per side, or until golden. Once browned, remove the chicken to a plate. Repeat the process with any remaining chicken breasts if needed.
• Add 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the inner pot, and cook for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Hit cancel to turn off the pressure cooker.
• Add ½ cup low-sodium chicken stock and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits off the bottom of the inner pot.
• Add the seared chicken back to the inner pot. Add in the 1 (7 oz) jar oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained), a pinch of salt, and 1 cup heavy cream.
• Secure the lid and turn the knob to the sealed position. To set the cooking time, hit manual or pressure cook and set the cooking time for 5 minutes on high pressure.
• Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can opt to do a quick release of pressure (or allow pressure to release fully on its own).
• Open the Instant Pot, and remove the chicken to a CLEAN platter.
• Hit cancel to turn off the keep warm function, then hit sauté. Add in ½ cup grated parmesan and 2 cups baby spinach leaves and stir until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened about 2-3 minutes. Hit cancel to turn off the sauté function.
• Serve the sauce over the chicken with additional parmesan and basil if desired.

Notes

• Size of Instant Pot: For an 8-quart Instant Pot, use ¾ cup chicken stock. No changes need to be made for a 3-quart or 6-quart Instant Pot.
• Chicken Breasts: This recipe makes enough sauce for 6 average-sized chicken breasts. For the timing to work, I would use chicken breasts between 6 and 8 ounces in size. For larger chicken breasts, only use 4 breasts and cook for 7 minutes on high pressure.
• Sundried Tomatoes: If using dried tomatoes in a pouch, be sure to rehydrate them by soaking them in boiling water for at least 30 minutes before draining and using them in this recipe.

Keyword creamy chicken dish, easy weeknight dinner, Instant Pot chicken recipe, romantic dinner recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.