This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan-infused sauce, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re looking to impress someone special or just craving a cozy, satisfying meal, this pasta recipe checks all the boxes. The Instant Pot makes it effortless—no need to boil pasta separately or worry about multiple pots and pans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, indulgent sauce made with Parmesan and heavy cream
• Packed with Flavor – Sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning bring depth to every bite
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap pasta types, or add extra veggies

Preparation & Essential Tools

Tools You’ll Need

• Instant Pot – A 6-quart or larger model works best
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring and deglazing
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures accuracy in liquid and seasoning measurements
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For prepping the chicken and vegetables

Ingredient Prep Tips

• Cut chicken into even 1-inch pieces to ensure quick and uniform cooking
• Drain and chop sun-dried tomatoes before starting
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, non-grainy sauce

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 16 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Sauté the Chicken

• Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil
• Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned

2. Add Garlic & Deglaze

• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly
• Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom (this prevents a burn warning)

3. Add Remaining Ingredients

• Pour in the rest of the chicken broth
• Add pasta on top (do not stir)
• Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper

4. Pressure Cook

• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 4 minutes
• Once done, quick release the pressure by switching the valve to Venting

5. Stir & Add Cheese

• Open the lid and stir the pasta well
• Mix in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted, then pour in the heavy cream

6. Finish with Spinach & Tomatoes

• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach until combined and wilted

7. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm

Best Side Dishes to Serve

1. Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery classic that’s perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – A crisp, refreshing contrast with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing.
3. Roasted Broccoli – Adds a healthy, slightly charred flavor to balance the richness of the dish.
4. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus – A light yet flavorful vegetable side with a hint of nuttiness.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
6. Bruschetta – A bright and tangy appetizer that enhances the Italian flavors.
7. Lemon Butter Green Beans – A simple, zesty side that lightens up the meal.
8. Sautéed Mushrooms – Earthy and buttery, adding extra depth to the dish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Burn Notice on Instant Pot

Problem: If the Instant Pot detects food sticking to the bottom, it may display a burn warning.
Solution: Always deglaze the pot after sautéing the chicken by adding broth and scraping up any browned bits.

2. Pasta is Undercooked or Overcooked

Problem: Incorrect timing can leave pasta too firm or too soft.
Solution: Follow the 4-minute high-pressure cook time and always do a quick release to prevent overcooking.

3. Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin

Problem: The sauce may thicken too much as it sits or be too runny.
Solution: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

4. Chicken is Dry or Overcooked

Problem: White meat can dry out quickly under pressure.
Solution: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.

5. Cheese Clumps in the Sauce

Problem: Parmesan doesn’t melt smoothly when added all at once.
Solution: Stir in the cheese gradually, ensuring each addition is fully melted before adding more.

6. Not Enough Flavor

Problem: The dish tastes bland if not properly seasoned.
Solution: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, extra garlic, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a flavor boost.

7. Pasta Sticking Together

Problem: Pasta can clump if not cooked with enough liquid.
Solution: Make sure the broth fully covers the pasta, and do not stir before pressure cooking.

8. Sun-Dried Tomatoes Are Too Intense

Problem: Sun-dried tomatoes have a concentrated flavor that can overpower the dish.
Solution: Reduce the quantity or replace with cherry tomatoes for a milder taste.

By following these tips, you’ll get the perfect creamy, flavorful Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta every time.

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it also stores and reheats well. Here are some tips to keep it tasting great.

Recipe Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture

• Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
• Let the pasta rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
• For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone.
• Adjust seasoning to taste by adding more Italian seasoning, garlic, or a touch of lemon juice.
• If making for meal prep, undercook the pasta by one minute to prevent it from becoming too soft when reheated.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing (Not Recommended)

• The creamy sauce may separate when frozen and reheated, leading to a grainy texture.
• If you must freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month and reheat slowly with extra liquid.

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Reheating Instructions

Microwave Method (Best for Small Portions)

1. Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to restore moisture.
3. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

Stovetop Method (Best for Large Portions)

1. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat.
2. Add a few tablespoons of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
3. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Instant Pot Reheat Method

1. Add the pasta and a small amount of broth to the Instant Pot.
2. Use the Sauté function and stir gently until heated through.

Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming too thick.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or ziti work best. If using spaghetti, break it in half and layer it carefully to avoid clumping.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers are good alternatives with a milder flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

How do I prevent my sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a little extra broth or milk while reheating and stir well to keep the sauce creamy.

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Conclusion

This Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for an easy yet impressive meal. With tender chicken, flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan sauce, it is sure to become a household favorite.

By following the tips for preparation, storage, and reheating, you can enjoy this dish fresh or as leftovers without sacrificing flavor or texture. Try pairing it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Make this recipe for a special occasion, a cozy weeknight dinner, or a meal to impress family and friends. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s called Marry Me Chicken Pasta!