Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 8-10 minced garlic cloves; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 4 ounces cream cheese (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Is there anything better than the rich aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the creamy richness of Parmesan cheese while your Instant Pot works its magic? If you’re searching for a quick and satisfying meal that brings comfort to the table without a lot of fuss, look no further than this Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your loved ones coming back for seconds.

Why Make This Recipe

Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with garlic and Parmesan, each bite is bursting with savory goodness.
Quick Cooking: With the Instant Pot, dinner is ready in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Versatile Meal: Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of veggies, this chicken dish adapts to your family’s favorites.

If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, this recipe will revive your menu and bring some excitement to your cooking. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and comforting textures.

Easy Method for Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe isn’t just about the flavors; it’s also about ease of preparation. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly straightforward to create a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Let’s delve into how to bring this delicious dish to life in your kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin with 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For even cooking, if your chicken breasts happen to be particularly thick (over 1.5 inches), consider slicing them horizontally into thinner cutlets or slightly pounding them out. This ensures they cook evenly and remain tender and juicy.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for a good sear. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. If you’re in the mood for a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. The seasoning not only enhances the flavor but adds an enticing aroma to your cooking environment.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Turn on your Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function set to "Normal" or "Medium-High." Let the pot heat up until it indicates it’s "Hot." Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pot. As the butter melts and starts to shimmer, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot inner pot.

Allow the chicken to sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s lightly golden brown. Remember, you want to develop some flavor here rather than fully cook the chicken. Working in batches may be necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Now, add 8-10 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for about 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Take care not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter and spoil the otherwise delightful flavors of the dish. If the pot is too hot, feel free to turn off the "Sauté" function momentarily.

Step 4: Introduce the Broth

Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits sticking to the bottom of the pot. This step, known as deglazing, is essential for building depth in your sauce and preventing the dreaded "BURN" notice your Instant Pot might throw at you later. Once the bottom of the pot is clean, turn off the "Sauté" function.

Return the seared chicken breasts to the Instant Pot, nestling them into the flavorful broth. If you have accumulated juices on the plate from the chicken, pour those in too—those are packed with flavor!

Step 5: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Secure the lid onto the Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release valve is in the “Sealing” position. Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" function, depending on your model. The cooking time will vary based on the size of your chicken breasts:

Medium-sized breasts: Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
Thicker breasts: Cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.

Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This gentle release helps keep the chicken tender and juicy. After 10 minutes, carefully move the steam release valve to the "Venting" position to release any remaining pressure. Be mindful of the hot steam billowing out during this step.

Step 6: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

With the lid still secured, remove the chicken from the pot using tongs and place it on a plate or cutting board. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should register a safe 165°F (74°C). While the chicken rests, you can finish up the luscious sauce.

Select the "Sauté" function again, setting it to "Low" or "Normal." If you’d like an even creamier sauce, add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese in cubes if you prefer it. Whisk it into the hot broth until melted and smooth. Next, gradually pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer without boiling.

Now, stir in 3/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like your sauce on the thicker side, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Pour this into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly until it reaches your desired thickness.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Sauce

You have two options at this point. You can either return the whole chicken breasts to the pot and spoon the sauce over the top, or you can slice or cube the chicken and stir it into the sauce to coat it evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Plate the Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken, spooning extra sauce over the top, and perhaps garnish with more parsley if you’re in the mood for some extra flair. Enjoy!

Storage Tips for Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Storing leftovers doesn’t have to be a hassle. Follow these simple guidelines to keep your Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken fresh and flavorful:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
Freezing: For longer-term storage, freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Best Ways to Serve Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The versatility of this dish opens up a world of serving possibilities. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Over Pasta: Spoon the creamy sauce and chicken over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a delightful pasta dish.
With Rice: Serve alongside a fluffy portion of rice—white, brown, or jasmine—all soaking up the delicious sauce.
As a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it atop fresh greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, integrating some of that creamy sauce as a dressing.
With Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutrient-packed meal.
In a Sandwich: Slice the chicken thinly and layer it in a bun with the sauce for a yummy garlic Parmesan chicken sandwich.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting properties.
Adjust the garlic quantity according to your preference; don’t be shy about it!
If you’re making this for a group, you can easily double the recipe; just ensure you have a large enough Instant Pot.
For an even more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the sauce.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to specific tastes, consider these options:

Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs can be juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Swap in Other Cheeses: Try using gouda or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will add its unique taste and texture to the dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! Consider making it a day in advance and reheating it before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust your cooking time slightly if they are thicker.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: For a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the broth when making the sauce. A dash works wonders without overpowering the other flavors.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or your favorite grain. Feel free to experiment with sides that complement the creamy sauce.

Q: Is the sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your cornstarch is pure and gluten-free.

Making a dinner that delights isn’t just about the ingredients, but the love and care you pour into it. This Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken not only packs in flavor but also fits perfectly into your busy life. Enjoy every piping hot bite, and watch as your loved ones eagerly ask what’s for dinner next time. Happy cooking!

Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Why Make This Recipe