Amazing Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Cozy Garlic Chicken Bliss

In the heart of every kitchen, love simmers, especially in my favorite recipes. Growing up in sunny Orlando, I was transported by the vibrant flavors that whispered tales from my mama’s cooking and my abuela’s spice cabinet. Now, living with both warmth and nostalgia, I often merge those childhood experiences into every dish I create. The Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that resonates with rich, creamy flavors and comforting aromas, a perfect way to bring everyone together at the dinner table.

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American/Italian
• Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The garlic and Parmesan create a luxurious sauce that envelopes the chicken, making every bite a flavorful experience.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions.
• Comforting Meal: The combination of garlic and creamy goodness feels like a warm hug, bringing a sense of comfort to your dining table.
• Versatile Pairings: This dish can be easily complemented by a variety of sides, making it great for custom family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: 1.5 – 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 3-4 medium breasts)
• Fat for Searing: 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil + 1 Tablespoon Unsalted Butter
• Aromatics: 8-10 Cloves Garlic, minced (Don’t be shy with the garlic!)
• Seasoning:
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a tiny kick)
• Liquid: 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
• Creamy Base:
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (at room temperature, if possible)
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened and cut into cubes (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
• Cheese: 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (use freshly grated for best melting)
• Thickener (Optional): 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch mixed with 2 Tablespoons Cold Water (slurry)
• Garnish: 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped

Ingredient Tips

• Chicken: Use thin, uniform sizes for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw properly before cooking.
• Garlic: Make sure the garlic is fresh for maximum flavor; old garlic can taste bitter.
• Heavy Cream: Can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter option, though ideal creaminess comes from heavy cream.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated tastes significantly better than pre-grated; it melts creamier.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. For thicker pieces, slice into thinner cutlets for quicker cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: Generously coat both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Set the Instant Pot: Select the “Sauté” function, setting it to “Normal” or “Medium-High.” Add olive oil and butter; let melt, shimmering.
4. Sear the Chicken: Add seasoned chicken breasts to the pot. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, until lightly golden. Avoid overcrowding the pot; cook in batches if needed. Remove the seared chicken.
5. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot, stirring constantly for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, but don’t let it burn. If necessary, turn off the “Sauté” function temporarily.
6. Add Chicken Broth: Pour in chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any golden bits (fond) stuck to the bottom—this adds flavor and avoids the dreaded “BURN” warning.
7. Nestle Chicken Back In: Place seared chicken breasts back into the pot, along with any collected juices.
8. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to “Sealing.” Select “Pressure Cook” and set the timer.
   • Cook for 10 minutes for medium breast pieces; for thicker ones, set for 12 minutes.
9. Release Pressure: Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, cautiously move the steam valve to “Venting” to release remaining pressure.
10. Check Chicken Temperature: Carefully remove chicken from the pot, checking the internal temperature (should be at least 165°F). Let rest while you prepare the sauce.
11. Make the Sauce: Set the Instant Pot back to low “Sauté” mode. If using cream cheese, add to hot broth, whisking until smooth.
12. Incorporate Cream and Parmesan: Slowly pour in heavy cream, continuously whisking. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer before adding Parmesan cheese, whisking until blended and creamy.
13. Thicken the Sauce (if desired): For a thicker sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry and whisk it into the simmering mix, letting it thicken to your preference.
14. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the pot to coat in delicious sauce or slice it, then stir back into the sauce. Add chopped parsley before serving.
15. Enjoy Your Dish: Plate your Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and drizzle extra sauce on top. Enjoy the warmth and love with every bite!

Kitchen Secrets for Best Results

• Searing Matters: Searing the chicken enhances the depth of flavor; don’t rush this step!
• Monitor Garlic Closely: Garlic can turn bitter if burnt, so stir and keep an eye on it during sautéing.
• Resting Time is Key: Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute, ensuring it stays tender.
• Custom Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and spices according to your family’s preferences for tailor-made flavor.

Creative Recipe Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, searing it the same way, and replace dairy with cashew cream and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
• Add Spice: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick; this can be done during the sauté step.
• Regional Twist: Try Italian seasoning with a little sage or rosemary for a unique herby twist.
• Creamy Mushroom Edition: Toss in sliced mushrooms during the garlic sauté for a delightful, earthy addition to the flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

• Sides: Serve with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
• Drinks: A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade pairs delightfully with this dish.
• Dessert: End your meal with a light lemon sorbet or tiramisu for a delightful contrast.

Ideas for Make Ahead & Freezing

• Prep in Advance: You can season and sear the chicken the night before. Store it in the refrigerator and proceed with the recipe the next day.
• Freezing: After cooking, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For the best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream or broth to help maintain the sauce’s luscious consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Present the Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of color. For a cozy table vibe, try rustic plates and warm serving utensils that keep the dish inviting.

Kitchen Tips for Cooking Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate flavor significantly.
• Even Sizes: Cut chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. This ensures that everything is tender and juicy.
• Adjust Acidity: If the sauce seems too rich, a small squeeze of lemon juice can brighten it up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers for Freshness

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave at reduced power to preserve creamy sauce texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but it’s important to thaw it first for even cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream? Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work as excellent alternatives!

How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch? You can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, but adding cream cheese also helps.

Can I make this dish without an Instant Pot? Absolutely! You can sauté the chicken in a skillet and then simmer it with the sauce ingredients on the stove.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? Try using Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese that melts well!

Can I double the recipe? Yes, but ensure your Instant Pot is big enough; otherwise, cook in batches.

Nutrition Info

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Protein: 40g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fat: 36g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

Final Reflections

From rich family traditions to vibrant kitchen experiments, everything feels sweeter when shared around a table. Crafting this Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken could become one of your favorites, filling homes with warmth and love. Let’s bring people together to savor moments, share stories, and create lasting memories. Don’t forget to pin this delicious recipe for your next family gathering!

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