As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes filled the air, whisking me away to a cozy Tuscan villa. That's when I discovered the magic of Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken—a dish that transforms any weeknight into a culinary escape. Not only is this recipe incredibly quick to prepare, but it's also a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings the rich flavors of Italian cuisine right to your dinner table. With tender chicken enveloped in a silky, creamy sauce, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds in no time. Plus, it's super adaptable; swap in chicken thighs for extra juiciness or go gluten-free with ease. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let's dive into this delicious journey together!
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Why is Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time to get dinner on the table.
Creamy Indulgence: The luscious sauce made with heavy cream and sun-dried tomatoes envelops juicy chicken, creating a dish that's rich and satisfying.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap chicken breasts for thighs or even shrimp, allowing you to tailor this recipe to your taste and dietary needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an impressive gathering, this dish is sure to wow your guests.
Quick Cooking: With the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes. If you love Quick and flavorful dishes, this is a must!
Pair it with buttery mashed potatoes or serve over pasta for a complete meal. And if you're in the mood for more quick and satisfying options, check out my Bang Bang Chicken for another delicious idea!
Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking game with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Tender and juicy; swap for chicken thighs for extra moisture.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; offers a rich flavor without needing substitution.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic provides robust flavor; pre-chopped can save time.
- Onion – Builds a base of flavor; use yellow or white onion for best results.
- Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the creamy sauce; opt for low-sodium if desired.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich texture; coconut cream makes for a dairy-free option.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Essential for an authentic Tuscan taste; roasted red peppers can be a fun alternative.
- Italian Seasoning – Enhances the dish’s flavor profile; fresh substitutes like basil or oregano brighten it up.
- Parmesan Cheese – Thickens the sauce while adding richness; nutritional yeast is a great non-dairy swap.
For the Greens
- Fresh Spinach – Adds color and nutrition; kale can serve as a hearty replacement.
- Fresh Parsley or Basil – Offers a fresh garnish; feel free to use any herbs on hand for flavor.
Now that you have everything you need, let's get cooking on this Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken that promises comforting, creamy goodness in every bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat for a moment. Toss in the chopped garlic and onion, stirring them together for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent, releasing a lovely aroma that sets the stage for your Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Once the aromatics are ready, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Carefully add them to the pot, browning each side for 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and seals in the juices, preparing your chicken to soak up the creamy sauce that will follow.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
After the chicken is nicely browned, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. You'll notice the delightful colors and textures merging, hinting at the flavor explosion to come in the Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the lid of the Instant Pot securely, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the high-pressure option and set the timer for 8 minutes. This crucial step will cook your chicken to perfection while intensifying the sauce, allowing those wonderful Tuscan flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Release and Stir
Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release by carefully moving the valve to venting. When the steam has subsided, open the lid and delight in the rich aroma. Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the warm sauce and mix in the Parmesan cheese for that luscious creamy finish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, plate your Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken, topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant touch. Serve this dish over buttery mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Get ready to impress your family and enjoy the flavorful goodness together!
Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful recipe, making each bite uniquely yours!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
This swap not only caters to lactose intolerance but also adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory flavors. -
Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Sauté the mushrooms until golden brown and let them soak up all that delicious sauce for a satisfying meal. -
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice to serve this dish without any gluten worries.
It’ll carry all that rich, creamy goodness, offering everyone a plate of comfort. -
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an extra burst of heat.
Ignite your taste buds by adjusting the spice level to your liking. -
Flavor Upgrade: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes with olives or artichokes for an added layer of flavor.
This twist gives a Mediterranean flair that enhances the overall taste experience. -
Heartier Finish: Include chopped zucchini or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
These add not just nutrition, but a delightful texture that complements the creamy sauce. -
Seafood Delight: Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops for a mouthwatering seafood version.
The seafood will soak up the Tuscan flavors beautifully and cook in the same time frame.
And if you're looking for even more family-friendly inspiration, consider trying my Pot Cajun Chicken or Cowboy Butter Chicken for a change of pace!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Imagine a table filled with vibrant colors and comforting flavors, all to complement the savory richness of your creamy chicken dish.
-
Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy, they soak up the luscious sauce, enhancing every bite of your chicken.
-
Fettuccine Pasta: Perfectly al dente noodles serve as a delightful base, trapping the dreamy sauce for a hearty meal.
-
Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, it adds a satisfying texture while allowing you to scoop up every drop of that creamy goodness.
-
Steamed Asparagus: Bright and fresh, the slight crunch of asparagus offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.
-
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provides a flavorful and colorful side, balancing warm and earthy notes.
-
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a refreshing crunch that offsets the richness of the chicken.
-
Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings a bright acidity that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
-
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy, coffee-flavored Italian classic, perfectly rounding off your Tuscan feast.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken
- Season Generously: Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned with salt and pepper for optimal flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Watch the Liquid: Check that there’s enough liquid to avoid the burning warning. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If using chicken thighs, you may need an extra minute or two to ensure they are cooked through.
- Quick Release Caution: Be careful when performing a quick release; steam can escape rapidly. Use a kitchen towel or spoon to avoid burns.
- Reheat Gently: When enjoying leftovers, reheat the Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken gently to preserve the creamy texture.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if necessary to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
Wrap: If refrigerating or freezing, wrap the dish tightly to avoid freezer burn and retain the delicious flavors.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken in advance is a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights! You can sauté the garlic and onion up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, preventing the browning that can occur when preparing these ingredients right before cooking. Additionally, you can season and sear the chicken, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days before finishing the recipe. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the remaining ones in the Instant Pot and cook as directed, allowing you to savor a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
For the best flavor, choose fresh garlic with a firm texture and without any dark or sprouting spots. Select ripe sun-dried tomatoes, ideally those packed in oil, as they are easier to use and taste more robust. When picking fresh spinach, look for vibrant green leaves, avoiding any yellowing or wilting.
How should I store leftovers of Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing to maintain its freshness and flavor. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave for the best results, adding a little splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For optimal thawing, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a dash of cream to bring back its creamy consistency.
What can I do if the sauce gets too thick?
If you find the sauce too thick after cooking, simply add a bit of chicken broth or a splash of cream while reheating to reach your desired consistency. This will help restore that rich, creamy texture without losing any flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes! If anyone in your home has dairy allergies or follows a vegan diet, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan cheese. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you use pre-packaged items.
What should I do if my Instant Pot shows a burning warning?
If you see a burning warning, it’s typically due to not enough liquid in the pot. Always ensure that you’ve got sufficient chicken broth to cover the bottom of the pot. If doubling the recipe, ensure there’s enough space inside your Instant Pot to accommodate everything. If you see the warning, you can add a little more broth and stir.
Creamy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken: Your Easy Flavor Fix
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 breasts Chicken Breasts Tender and juicy; swap for chicken thighs for extra moisture.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing; offers a rich flavor without needing substitution.
- 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic provides robust flavor; pre-chopped can save time.
- 1 medium Onion Use yellow or white onion for best results.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium if desired.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream makes for a dairy-free option.
- ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Essential for an authentic Tuscan taste; roasted red peppers can be a fun alternative.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Fresh substitutes like basil or oregano brighten it up.
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a great non-dairy swap.
For the Greens
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach Kale can serve as a hearty replacement.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley or Basil Feel free to use any herbs on hand for flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and let it heat, then toss in chopped garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot, browning each side for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning and mix gently.
- Seal the lid, set the valve to sealing, select high-pressure, and set the timer for 8 minutes.
- Perform a quick release. Stir in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Plate your dish, garnishing with parsley or basil. Serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.
