Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that can be prepared in no time, this creamy chicken fettuccine made in an Instant Pot is the perfect choice. Featuring tender chicken thighs, savory garlic, and rich cream, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s simply irresistible. With a short list of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup dry white wine
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces fettuccine noodles, broken in half
3 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Make this creamy chicken fettuccine in your Instant Pot for a quick and delightful meal that combines the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan with the tenderness of chicken and the heartiness of pasta. Follow the steps carefully and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot to the high sauté setting. Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in ¼ cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and lift any browned bits left from cooking the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Liquid and Noodles
Add 2 cups of chicken stock, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 8 ounces of broken fettuccine noodles to the pot. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Place the cooked chicken on top of the noodles.
Step 5: Cook Under Pressure
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and select the manual setting. Adjust the pressure to high and set the timer for 6 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Stir and Reduce
Stir the pasta mixture in the pot and let it sit for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until approximately half of the liquid has reduced.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Add 3 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the pot, stirring until melted and well combined. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Thighs
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
Note 2: Deglazing
Deglazing is an important step, as it helps to incorporate the caramelized bits from the bottom of the pot into the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Note 3: Pasta Cooking Time
Fettuccine noodles can be broken in half for easier fitting in the pot, but ensure they are submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Note 5: Storage
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cook techniques
Seasoning Chicken
To enhance the flavor of the chicken, season it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper before cooking. This creates a base flavor that permeates the meat.
Sautéing
Utilize the high sauté setting on the Instant Pot to melt butter and brown the chicken pieces. This step adds depth and flavor to the dish through the Maillard reaction.
Deglazing
After sautéing, pour in white wine to deglaze the pot. Scrape the bottom to lift any browned bits, which are packed with flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Layering Ingredients
When adding the ingredients to the Instant Pot, ensure that the fettuccine noodles are submerged in the liquid, with the cooked chicken placed on top. This allows for even cooking and proper distribution of flavors.
Pressure Cooking
Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for cooking the chicken and pasta together. This method ensures that the noodles cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Reducing Sauce
After cooking, let the pasta mixture sit to allow the liquid to reduce. This creates a thicker, creamier sauce that clings to the noodles and chicken.
Incorporating Cheese
Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined, adding richness and a savory note to the finished dish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent dryness.
What type of white wine is best for cooking?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is recommended for cooking, as it adds a nice acidity and depth to the dish.
Can I make this dish without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop by sautéing, simmering the noodles in chicken stock and cream, and adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute regular fettuccine noodles with gluten-free pasta, ensuring to check the cooking instructions, as they may vary from traditional noodles.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, though the texture and richness may differ slightly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This creamy fettuccine with chicken thighs is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and comforting textures. The use of an Instant Pot not only streamlines the cooking process but also enhances the taste by melding the ingredients beautifully. With the richness of heavy cream and the sharpness of Parmesan, it’s a satisfying meal that can please any palate.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Alfredo Bake
Combine cooked fettuccine with the same chicken and cream sauce, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly for a cheesy, hearty casserole.
Garlic Lemon Chicken Pasta
Replace the dry white wine with fresh lemon juice and zest to create a zesty twist on the classic, adding a refreshing flavor alongside the garlic.
Mushroom and Spinach Fettuccine
Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach to the recipe for a fantastic veggie boost and added earthiness to complement the chicken.
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Incorporate Cajun seasoning to the chicken before cooking for a flavorful, spicy kick that transforms the dish into a bold and exciting meal.
Pesto Chicken Fettuccine
Mix in store-bought or homemade pesto after adding the Parmesan cheese for an herby and aromatic variation that adds a layer of flavor.
Chicken Carbonara
Incorporate eggs and additional Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking to create a creamy, indulgent carbonara-style dish featuring your chicken and pasta.
