For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Adjust the amount of pesto to your preference. For a bolder flavor, add an extra tablespoon or two. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend a small amount of the sauce with the cream cheese before adding it to the pot. Feel free to substitute other vegetables based on your preference and what you have on hand. Broccoli florets, zucchini, or bell peppers would all work well. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Instant Pot® Gourmet Pesto Chicken
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PREP TIME20 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING5 People
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VIEWS10
Experience the delicate flavors of pesto chicken reimagined in the Instant Pot®. This recipe delivers a light and vibrant sauce, a delightful departure from traditional, heavier pesto dishes. A symphony of fresh vegetables and creamy textures awaits!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate59 g
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Cholesterol128 mg
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Fiber6 g
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Protein39 g
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Saturated Fat16 g
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Sodium762 mg
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Sugar4 g
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Fat39 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepSeasoning and Preparing the Chicken (5 minutes): Rub chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Lightly dust with flour, shaking off any excess to ensure a delicate coating.
02
StepSearing and Building Flavor (3 minutes): Turn on your multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®) and select the Sauté function. Add olive oil and sear the chicken until lightly browned on all sides. This step enhances the depth of flavor.
03
StepPressure Cooking the Chicken (40-50 minutes): Pour in the chicken broth. Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot®. Select the Poultry setting and set the timer for 30 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build naturally.
04
StepReleasing Pressure (5 minutes): Carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions.
05
StepAdding Remaining Ingredients (5 minutes): Unlock and carefully remove the lid. Add cream cheese, penne pasta, asparagus, green beans, pesto, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.
06
StepFinal Pressure Cooking (13-18 minutes): Close the lid again and select the Rice setting; set the timer for 3 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions.
07
StepFinal Release and Serving (5 minutes): Carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method. Unlock and remove the lid. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors!
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Hunter Collins
Jun 30, 2025I added a little red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and it was delicious!
Thurman Bradtke
Jun 29, 2025I love how quick and easy this is for a weeknight dinner.
Bernadette Robel
Jun 29, 2025I doubled the recipe and it still came out perfectly.
Stephen Witting
Jun 21, 2025I didn't have penne so I used rotini and it worked great!
Emanuel Dare
Jun 13, 2025This was so easy and the chicken was incredibly tender!
Isabelle Jast
Jun 11, 2025The pesto flavor was perfect, not too overpowering.
Alexander Gutmann
Jun 10, 2025My family loved this! It's going into our regular rotation.
Imogene Christiansen
Jun 6, 2025Next time I'll try adding some sun-dried tomatoes.