Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the convenience of modern cooking? Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this incredible Instant Pot Italian Chicken Casserole! In less time than it takes to order takeout, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and melted mozzarella coming together in one magical pot - no complicated techniques required!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and measuring out all other ingredients.
- Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring even coating.
- Grease the Instant Pot inner pot with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add cubed chicken to the Instant Pot, followed by uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth.
- Gently stir ingredients to ensure pasta is mostly submerged in liquid and chicken is evenly distributed.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and select Manual/Pressure Cook mode.
- Cook on high pressure for 5-6 minutes, depending on pasta type and desired tenderness.
- Once cooking completes, perform a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking.
- Open lid and stir contents, checking pasta and chicken are fully cooked.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right pasta: Use short pasta like penne or rotini that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- Don't skip seasoning: Ensure your chicken is generously coated with Italian seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Liquid is key: Make sure pasta is mostly submerged to ensure even cooking.
- Quick release matters: Use quick pressure release to prevent overcooking and maintain perfect pasta texture.
- Cheese tip: Let the residual heat melt the mozzarella for a creamy, dreamy finish.
- Optional garnish: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish's presentation and add a fresh flavor boost.
- Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
