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To create this tasty dish, gather these main ingredients: - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 cups penne pasta - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup spinach, packed - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste These items form the base of our creamy Tuscan chicken pasta. Each ingredient adds flavor and texture. The chicken gives protein, while the cream creates richness. The spinach and tomatoes add color and nutrients. You can add some optional ingredients for extra flavor: - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat) - Fresh basil for garnish Red pepper flakes give a nice kick. Fresh basil adds a pop of flavor and beauty. Make sure you have these necessary tools: - Instant Pot - Wooden spoon - Measuring cups and spoons - Knife and cutting board Having the right tools makes cooking easier. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time. A wooden spoon helps mix everything well. First, turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Pour in the olive oil and let it heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is brown on all sides. This step gives the chicken a nice flavor. Next, pour in the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the pot. This adds more taste. Now, add the penne pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth. This helps it cook evenly. Now, close the lid of the Instant Pot. Set the valve to Sealing and select Pressure Cook for 4 minutes. This step cooks the pasta and chicken quickly. When the timer goes off, turn the valve to Venting. This quickly releases the pressure and steam. Carefully open the lid. Stir in the heavy cream, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and optional red pepper flakes. Add the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix all the ingredients well. The cheese should melt, and the spinach will wilt. This makes the dish creamy and colorful. Taste your pasta now. If it needs more flavor, add more salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water. You want a nice, creamy consistency that coats the pasta well. Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color. For extra flavor, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper on top. This makes the dish look and taste amazing! To cook pasta well, use the right amount of water. For this recipe, the chicken broth adds flavor and moisture. Make sure the penne is fully submerged. Stir it gently when you add it to the pot. This helps prevent sticking. For a creamy sauce, use heavy cream. Add it after pressure cooking. Mix it in slowly to avoid clumps. The Parmesan cheese also helps to thicken the sauce. If it gets too thick, add more broth or water. To boost flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh basil adds a nice touch. You can also add minced garlic for more depth. Red pepper flakes bring heat if you like spice. Taste the dish before serving to adjust seasoning. {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for other proteins. For a lighter dish, use turkey. If you want something vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu. Both options add great texture. You can marinate these proteins just like chicken for more flavor. Penne is a great choice, but other pastas work well too. Try fusilli for a twist; its shape holds sauce nicely. Or use spaghetti for a classic feel. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if you need it. Just check the cooking time, as it may vary. Feel free to mix in different veggies. Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Mushrooms give a nice earthy flavor. Broccoli or zucchini can boost the nutrition. Make sure to add them when you stir in the cream. This keeps them fresh and bright! To keep your creamy Tuscan chicken pasta fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Let the pasta cool down to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the lid is tight to prevent air from getting in. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. For the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to a pan. Heat on medium until warm, stirring often. For the microwave, put the pasta in a bowl, cover it with a lid, and heat for one to two minutes. Stir halfway to help it warm evenly. If you want to freeze the pasta, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above. Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces if possible. This helps it cook evenly and faster. There are several tasty options. You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. Silken tofu blended with a bit of water is a great dairy-free choice. For a nutty flavor, try cashew cream. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta. Many brands offer great options that cook well in the Instant Pot. Always check the labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free. Yes, you can make this dish on the stove. Sauté the chicken in a large pot, then add the broth and pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender, then stir in the cream and veggies. This creamy pasta pairs nicely with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Roasted vegetables also make a great side. For a light touch, try serving it with steamed broccoli or green beans. You learned how to make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta step-by-step. We covered the main and optional ingredients, necessary tools, and tips for the best results. You also explored different variations, storage tips, and answers to common questions. Now, you can confidently cook this delicious dish. Enjoy creating your own version and impressing your family. Cooking can be fun and rewarding!

Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the delicious flavors of Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta! This easy recipe combines tender chicken, penne pasta, rich cream, and vibrant veggies for a mouthwatering meal ready in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s creamy, comforting, and sure to impress! Click through to explore this delectable recipe and make dinnertime a breeze with a dish everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups penne pasta

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup spinach, packed

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Chicken: Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.

    Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the penne pasta, making sure it is submerged in the broth.

      Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to Sealing, and select Pressure Cook for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is done, quickly release the pressure by turning the valve to Venting.

        Stir in Cream and Veggies: Carefully open the lid and stir in the heavy cream, cherry tomatoes, spinach, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the spinach has wilted.

          Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pasta and add more salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

            Serve: Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls or plates and garnish with fresh basil.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the dish garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and visual appeal.