Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

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If you are searching for a comforting, hearty dish that comes together quickly and bursts with creamy, savory flavors, then this Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious cheese sauce, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you need a weeknight dinner that pleases the whole family or a cozy dish to impress friends, this recipe is a delightful game-changer that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, everyday pantry heroes that come together brilliantly to balance flavor, creaminess, and texture in the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe. Each one plays an essential part, from the tender chicken breast to the sharp cheddar cheese and rich cream, creating a dish that’s both luscious and satisfying.

• 1/2 lb spaghetti (uncooked): The foundation of this dish, be sure to arrange it criss-cross for even cooking.
• 4 cups water: Needed to properly cook the pasta inside the Instant Pot without sticking.
• 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless): These will become tender and juicy after pressure cooking, soaking up the seasoning beautifully.
• 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps coat the chicken evenly with spices for maximum flavor.
• 1 tsp salt (divided): Enhances the natural flavors of chicken and pasta at different stages.
• 1/2 tsp pepper (divided): Adds a subtle kick to season the chicken and sauce.
• 1 tsp garlic powder (divided): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth without overpowering.
• 1 tsp onion powder (divided): Adds mild sweetness and complexity.
• 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning (divided): Brings herbal warmth that perfectly complements the chicken and cheese.
• 1/4 cup honey BBQ sauce: Adds a tangy, sweet glaze that gives the chicken a delightful finish.
• 14 oz diced tomatoes: Contributes freshness and acidity, balancing out the richness.
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream: The secret to making the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Sharp and melty, it creates that irresistible cheesy texture.
• 1/2 cup parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty punch that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Spaghetti

First, arrange the uncooked spaghetti in the Instant Pot in a criss-cross pattern. This clever trick prevents the noodles from clumping together during cooking, helping them cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.

Step 2: Add Water

Pour in 4 cups of water over the spaghetti to provide the necessary moisture for perfectly cooked noodles. This amount ensures the pasta will be tender without getting mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Trivet

Place the Instant Pot’s trivet on top of the spaghetti. This elevated rack will hold the chicken breasts, allowing the steam to circulate and cook both layers simultaneously.

Step 4: Season the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, half the salt and pepper, and half the garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss well so every piece is well coated and flavorful.

Step 5: Arrange Chicken on Trivet

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the trivet above the pasta. This setup enables the chicken to cook evenly while infusing the spaghetti below with wonderful aroma and taste.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 6 minutes. The magic of the Instant Pot will make the chicken tender and the spaghetti perfectly cooked in this short time.

Step 7: Natural Release and Prepare Chicken

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken, brush each breast with honey BBQ sauce, then slice into bite-sized chunks and set aside.

Step 8: Drain Pasta and Add Tomatoes

Strain the pasta, leaving it in a colander, then stir in diced tomatoes so the pasta soaks up the tomato juices, adding a fresh burst of flavor and color.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Sauce Base

In your now-empty Instant Pot, pour in the heavy whipping cream with the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This combination sets the stage for a rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 10: Saute the Sauce

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode on high heat. This will start thickening the sauce as the cream heats up and mixes with the seasonings.

Step 11: Add Half the Cheddar Cheese

Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt completely, blending perfectly with the creamy base to create a cheesy, luscious sauce.

Step 12: Incorporate Remaining Cheese

Add the last cup of cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth and gooey texture throughout the sauce.

Step 13: Thicken the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring often, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This thickening step makes sure the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, delivering maximum creaminess in every bite.

Step 14: Combine Pasta and Tomatoes

Add the tomato-studded pasta back into the pot, stirring gently to coat each strand with the luscious cheese sauce.

Step 15: Mix Thoroughly

Make sure the pasta is completely enveloped in sauce, so every forkful carries the full comforting flavor combination.

Step 16: Add the Chicken and Serve

Finally, fold in the tender honey BBQ chicken chunks and serve immediately for a meal that’s warm, cheesy, and beyond delicious.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your dish even further, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of herbal brightness. A dash of extra parmesan cheese on top can add an irresistible salty finish that makes the flavors sing together.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs amazingly with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce and making the meal feel luxe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, serve the chicken spaghetti in individual ramekins, topped with a little extra cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, presenting it family-style in a large casserole dish invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the comforting vibe together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It holds up beautifully, as the flavors continue to meld and the dish reheats well.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure it’s cooled completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken spaghetti gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works well under pressure, you can swap in other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is the chicken cooked separately or with the pasta?

The chicken cooks on the trivet above the pasta inside the Instant Pot, making it juicy and flavorful while the spaghetti cooks below in the steam and seasonings.

Can I make this recipe with shredded chicken instead?

Yes! You could use pre-cooked shredded chicken, adding it at the end of the recipe when mixing the sauce and pasta together. Just skip the initial pressure cook for the chicken.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings or swap the honey BBQ sauce for a spicy BBQ variety. A little cayenne pepper in the cheese sauce also works wonders.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti Recipe is truly a winner for anyone craving a fuss-free, flavorful, and comforting meal. It’s a dish that brings warmth, satisfaction, and ease all in one pot—perfect for busy nights or anytime you want a little soulful indulgence. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to dinners to make again and again!

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