Description
A quick and comforting one-pot meal made in the Instant Pot with tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy ranch-seasoned sauce topped with melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb penne or rotini pasta
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and ranch seasoning, cooking for 1 minute.
- Add pasta and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Ensure pasta is submerged in liquid.
- Cancel sauté mode, seal Instant Pot, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
- Quick release pressure and open lid carefully.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted. For extra creaminess, stir in heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach at the end for added veggies.
- This dish reheats well — add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American