Looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Tortellini will delight you! This recipe combines tender chicken and cheesy tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce. You’ll love how fast and easy it is to make. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps, share ingredient tips, and provide clever tricks to perfect this dish. Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Ingredient Tips
When choosing chicken, look for fresh or organic options. They taste better. For the broth, low-sodium helps control salt levels. Heavy cream gives a rich taste. If using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw. Just toss them in directly. Frozen peas add color and nutrition. You can swap fresh garlic for garlic powder if needed.
Recommended Brands
For chicken, I often choose Perdue or Tyson. Their quality is consistent. For broth, Swanson’s low-sodium chicken broth is my go-to. For tortellini, look for Rana or Buitoni. They offer delicious cheese-filled options. I recommend using Land O’Lakes heavy cream for a rich flavor. For Parmesan, Grana Padano is a great choice, as it melts well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté the Chicken: First, turn on your Instant Pot. Select the “Sauté” mode. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait about 1-2 minutes for the oil to heat. Add 1 lb of diced chicken breast. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes. Stir it often until it turns lightly brown.
2. Add Aromatics: Next, add 1 medium chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Stir everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to look clear and smell great.
3. Season and Deglaze: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom. This helps get all the tasty bits stuck there.
4. Add Cream & Tortellini: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to sealing. Choose the Pressure Cook function and set the timer for 4 minutes. When done, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 package (9 oz) of tortellini.
5. Cook the Tortellini: Close the lid again. Set to Pressure Cook for 2 minutes. After cooking, do another quick release of the pressure.
6. Add Peas and Final Touches: Open the lid and gently mix in 1 cup of frozen peas. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. This helps to warm the peas.
7. Serve: Ladle the creamy chicken tortellini into bowls. For a nice touch, add fresh basil leaves and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Time Breakdown: Prep & Cooking
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Servings: 4
Visual Cooking Process (Images/Videos)
While I can’t provide images or videos here, I recommend taking pictures at each step. This way, you can see the progress of your dish. Snap a photo of the sautéed chicken, the creamy mixture, and the final plated dish. It’s fun to document!
Feel free to share your cooking journey with friends or on social media!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect the Dish
To make your creamy chicken tortellini the best, follow these tips:
– Sauté Well: Cook the chicken until it’s golden. This adds flavor.
– Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scrape the pot well to get all the tasty bits.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions give better taste than dried.
– Timing is Key: Make sure to set the timer right for perfect tortellini.
– Cream Last: Add heavy cream after cooking to keep it rich and smooth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are mistakes to watch out for:
– Overcooking the Chicken: It can get tough if cooked too long.
– Ignoring the Pressure Release: Quick release is crucial for the tortellini.
– Not Measuring Ingredients: Accurate amounts ensure the best flavor and texture.
– Adding Peas Too Soon: They should be added last to keep them bright and fresh.
– Using Too Much Salt: Low-sodium broth helps keep the dish balanced.
Enhancing Flavor Suggestions
Want to add more flavor? Try these ideas:
– Add Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can brighten the dish.
– Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice heat.
– Cheese Variety: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella for extra creaminess.
– Lemon Zest: A little zest can add a fresh, zesty note.
– Wine: A splash of white wine during cooking can deepen the flavor.
By following these tips, your Instant Pot creamy chicken tortellini will shine at every meal.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps for Healthier Options
You can easily swap some ingredients in this recipe. Try using skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. They have more flavor and keep the dish juicy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also replace cheese tortellini with whole wheat tortellini for more fiber. Adding fresh spinach instead of peas packs in nutrients and adds color.
Flavor Variations (Spicy, Herby, etc.)
To change the flavor, add a kick. Toss in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for spice. You can also play with herbs. Try fresh parsley or thyme for a fresh taste. If you love garlic, increase the amount to 4 cloves. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Experimenting with flavors makes this dish your own.
Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
For a gluten-free version, seek out gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty options that fit this diet. If you need a dairy-free dish, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese. These swaps keep the dish creamy while fitting your dietary needs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover creamy chicken tortellini in an airtight container. Make sure it cools first. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use either the microwave or the stovetop. For the microwave, place the tortellini in a bowl. Heat it for one to two minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth in a pan. Heat over low until warmed through. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Freezing Tips
If you decide to freeze the dish, do it before adding peas. This helps keep them fresh. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen tortellini can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it as mentioned above.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook tortellini in an Instant Pot?
Tortellini cooks quickly in an Instant Pot. After adding it with cream, you only need 2 minutes on pressure cook mode. The total time from start to finish, including sautéing, is about 30 minutes.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes in sauté mode. Then, follow the same steps for adding broth and cream.
What can I serve with creamy chicken tortellini?
Creamy chicken tortellini pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a little crunch, try adding some toasted pine nuts on top!
In this article, we covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, tips, variations, and storage info. You now know what to buy, how to cook, and how to make the dish your own. My final thoughts? With a bit of care, you can create a tasty meal. Avoid common mistakes and store leftovers smartly. Enjoy cooking, and let your creativity shine!
