Description
Succulent Instant Pot Creamy Italian Chicken brings classic Mediterranean flavors into a comforting one-pot meal. Rich parmesan, tender chicken, and herbs create a luxurious dinner that welcomes you to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquid and Dairy Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by generously coating it with a blend of aromatic seasonings, ensuring each piece is evenly covered with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- Activate the Instant Pot’s sauté function and heat olive oil until shimmering, then carefully place the seasoned chicken into the pot, creating a golden-brown exterior by searing for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove the seared chicken and deglaze the pot with chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to lift and incorporate the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Return the chicken to the pot and introduce minced garlic, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Securely close the Instant Pot lid, positioning the valve to sealing, and initiate high-pressure cooking for 10 minutes to infuse the chicken with deep, rich flavors.
- Allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure to prevent overcooking.
- Extract the chicken and transform the cooking liquid into a luxurious sauce by whisking in cream cheese, creating a velvety base that will envelop the meat.
- Incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and perfectly melted.
- Gently fold in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt and integrate seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
- Slice or shred the tender chicken and reintroduce it to the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
- Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil and serve over your preferred accompaniment, such as pasta, rice, or a low-carb alternative.
Notes
- Optimize chicken seasoning by letting it sit with spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking to enhance flavor penetration.
- Use fresh chicken breasts at room temperature to ensure even cooking and prevent tough, dry meat.
- Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a golden-brown crust and better caramelization.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lighter, diet-friendly alternatives without compromising creamy texture.
- Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent over-seasoning.
- Customize heat by adjusting red pepper flakes or adding smoked paprika for deeper flavor complexity.
- Prevent sauce separation by adding cheese gradually and stirring continuously during incorporation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 19 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 51 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg