Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta
From the moment I took my first bite of Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta, I knew I was in for a treat. This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The creamy texture, combined with the deliciously tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of trying out new recipes each week. I remember the excitement of diving into the kitchen, my hands covered in flour, as we experimented with different ingredients. This recipe is inspired by those moments, bringing together the best of comfort food and convenience, thanks to the Ninja Foodi. The combination of flavors is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
The beauty of Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty and wholesome dish that everyone will love. I often find myself making this dish when I crave something warm and filling, and the fact that it can be made in one pot just adds to its appeal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick meal, this recipe has you covered. It’s truly a go-to that brings warmth and joy to any table.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
15 mins
20 mins
Medium
450 kcal
35g g
Gluten-Free
18g g
Large Pot, Frying Pan, Instant Pot, Wooden Spoon
What Sets This Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta Apart
It’s Comfort Food at Its Best
When it comes to comfort food, it doesn’t get much better than Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and hearty pasta creates a dish that warms the soul. Each bite is like a comforting embrace, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Quick and Easy to Make
Life can be hectic, and sometimes you just need a meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in no time. The Ninja Foodi makes it easier than ever to prepare, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients
Every ingredient in Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta plays a crucial role in building flavor. The creamy soup, tangy tomatoes, and rich cheese meld together beautifully, creating a delightful sauce that clings to the pasta. The subtle heat from the Rotel tomatoes brings everything to life, making each mouthful exciting.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand. Swap out the pasta for your favorite shape, or add in extra vegetables to boost the nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to use up pantry staples!
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re looking to save time during the week, Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge, ready to be reheated for quick lunches or dinners. It holds up well, and the flavors only get better after a day in the fridge.
Perfect for Family Gatherings
This recipe is fantastic for serving a crowd. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a potluck with friends, people will rave about the creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, fostering conversations and laughter around the table.
Everything You Need for Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta. Each component works harmoniously to create a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and delectable. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that will bring this meal to life.
- 2 chicken breasts cooked and shredded – The main protein source that adds heartiness to the dish. Using cooked and shredded chicken ensures that the meat remains tender and flavorful.
- 1 box of 16 oz Penne noodles – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and provide a satisfying bite. You may also consider other pasta types if preferred.
- 1 can cream of mushroom – This ingredient adds a rich and creamy base to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 can of Rotel Tomatoes – Offering a zesty kick, these tomatoes bring acidity and vibrancy to the dish, balancing the creaminess of the other ingredients.
- 16 oz Velveeta cubed – The star of the show when it comes to creaminess. Velveeta melts beautifully, creating that irresistible cheesy texture.
- 3 cans of water – Used to dilute the cream of mushroom soup, this ingredient ensures the right consistency for the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic – Adding a hint of aromatic flavor, garlic elevates the dish and complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Instructions for Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta

Making Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta is a breeze, especially with the Ninja Foodi’s efficient cooking capabilities. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful meal that the whole family will love.
- Before you get started on this recipe, ensure you have cooked and shredded chicken. If you don’t have any prepared, place defrosted chicken breasts into the pressure cooker with 1 and a half cups of water. Cook on high for 8 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. Remove the chicken with tongs and carefully shred it.
- Note that a 6.5 quart Ninja Foodi was used for this recipe. Once the chicken is ready, dump the Penne noodles (or spaghetti noodles broken in half) at the bottom of the ceramic pressure cooker pan.
- Next, layer the cooked shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom, cubed Velveeta, and minced fresh garlic over the noodles.
- Now, take your cream of mushroom can and fill it up three times with water. Pour this water into the pressure cooker pot along with the other ingredients. This will help create the sauce needed for the pasta.
- Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients evenly, ensuring that the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Seal the pressure cooker lid securely and set it to pressure cook on high for 7 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to cook perfectly.
- When the 7 minutes are up, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Be careful when opening the lid, as steam may escape.
- Once the pressure is released, open the lid carefully and give everything a good stir. The cheese and chicken should be nice and hot, with a melty texture.
- Serve immediately while everything is warm and gooey. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later.
Things Worth Knowing
- Make sure to shred the chicken finely: This helps it blend better with the noodles and sauce, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
- Don’t skip the natural release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy.
- Experiment with cheeses: While Velveeta is delicious, you can try different melting cheeses for varied flavors.
- Adjust the liquid: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add a little extra water when combining the ingredients.
Helpful Notes about Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers a few tips that can help enhance your cooking experience. Here are some helpful notes to keep in mind as you prepare this dish.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to three months. Store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
- Variations: Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves eight but can easily be halved for a smaller family or gathering.
Perfect Matches for Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta, there are numerous delicious options that complement this comforting dish beautifully. Here’s how to elevate your meal experience:
- Garden Salad: A light, crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta, balancing the flavors on your plate.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a savory addition that everyone will enjoy. The buttery garlic flavor enhances the overall meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious component that offers a nice color contrast.
- Family Gatherings: This dish is ideal for gatherings or potlucks where you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Movie Night: Perfect for a cozy night in, serve Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta while enjoying a movie marathon.
- Busy Weeknights: This recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and filling without all the fuss.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken, it’s a dish that everyone will love. So why not give it a try? I promise it will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for those busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!

Ninja Foodi Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Frying Pan
- Instant Pot
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts cooked and shredded
- 1 box Penne noodles 16 oz; see note in article about pasta kinds
- 1 can cream of mushroom
- 1 can Rotel Tomatoes
- 16 oz Velveeta cubed
- 3 cans water fill up the cream of mushroom can 3 times
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
Instructions
- Before you get started on this recipe, ensure you have cooked and shredded chicken. If you don’t have any prepared, place defrosted chicken breasts into the pressure cooker with 1 and a half cups of water. Cook on high for 8 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. Remove the chicken with tongs and carefully shred it.
- Note that a 6.5 quart Ninja Foodi was used for this recipe. Once the chicken is ready, dump the Penne noodles (or spaghetti noodles broken in half) at the bottom of the ceramic pressure cooker pan.
- Next, layer the cooked shredded chicken, Rotel tomatoes, cream of mushroom, cubed Velveeta, and minced fresh garlic over the noodles.
- Now, take your cream of mushroom can and fill it up three times with water. Pour this water into the pressure cooker pot along with the other ingredients. This will help create the sauce needed for the pasta.
- Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients evenly, ensuring that the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Seal the pressure cooker lid securely and set it to pressure cook on high for 7 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to cook perfectly.
- When the 7 minutes are up, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Be careful when opening the lid, as steam may escape.
- Once the pressure is released, open the lid carefully and give everything a good stir. The cheese and chicken should be nice and hot, with a melty texture.
- Serve immediately while everything is warm and gooey. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later.


