Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta
Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’ve ever found yourself craving a hearty, comforting meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, you’ll love this Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon—it’s pure comfort food! Perfect for busy weeknights or a causal family dinner, this recipe makes dinner a breeze while being delicious enough to impress.
Reasons to Try This Dish
So, why should you make this Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta? First, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick and easy—ideal for busy lifestyles. The combination of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and rich ranch seasoning creates a flavor bomb that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! This meal can feed a family without breaking the bank. And if you have kids, they’re sure to devour every bite.
"This pasta dish is an instant family favorite. It’s the right amount of creamy and packed with flavor!"
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta is straightforward, even if you’re new to cooking. Here’s a brief overview:
- Start by cooking some bacon for that delightful crunch.
- Sear your chicken in the flavorful bacon grease—an excellent way to ramp up taste.
- Add your liquid ingredients and set your Instant Pot to work its magic.
- A quick shred and toss, and you’re ready to eat!
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal with minimal cleanup.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive into cooking, gather these ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 ounces pasta (any type you prefer)
- 6 slices bacon
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap the type of pasta for what you have on hand or use turkey bacon for a lighter version!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps:
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Cook the Bacon: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it and drain on paper towels.
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Sear the Chicken: In the leftover bacon grease, sear the chicken breasts on both sides until browned.
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Add Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
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Instant Pot Time: Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
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Shred the Chicken: Once done, use a quick release to vent the steam. Shred the chicken with two forks—it should come apart easily.
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Mix the Pasta and Bacon: Stir in your cooked pasta and crumble in the bacon for that extra flavor and crunch.
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Season: Finish with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Dish it up hot and garnish with chopped green onions for a touch of freshness!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this dish with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. A slice of garlic bread can also complement the creamy pasta perfectly. For those looking to add some freshness, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up each plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stovetop over low heat. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before placing it in the freezer.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few insider tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Bacon Choice: Using thick-cut bacon adds more flavor and texture.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Cream Cheese: Letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a bit will make it easier to blend into the sauce.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach or bell peppers for a more colorful dish.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking, including the time it takes to build pressure, can be done in about 30 minutes—making it a fantastic option for quick weeknight meals.
Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Just remember to cool it completely before placing it in the freezer. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to create this scrumptiously creamy and cheesy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it and drain on paper towels.
- In the leftover bacon grease, sear the chicken breasts on both sides until browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Close the lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, use a quick release to vent the steam. Shred the chicken with two forks—it should come apart easily.
- Stir in your cooked pasta and crumble in the bacon for added flavor and crunch.
- Finish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dish it up hot and garnish with chopped green onions for a touch of freshness.
