Instant Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Penne Recipe

Make this Instant Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Penne for a quick, flavorful dinner packed with tender chicken, asparagus, and pesto.

This Instant Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Penne is one weeknight meal that is not only easy — it’s delicious.  Using leftover chicken from a previous recipe, like my Braised Chicken with Artichokes and Israeli Couscous, or rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, is the first step in making dinnertime stress free.

I love a good one-pot recipe — add the ingredients, cook and stir.  The ricotta cheese and store-bought or homemade pesto are added after cooking, for a silky creamy sauce that’s irresistible.  I think this pasta recipe could be something that becomes a family favorite in no-time.

I spooned the pasta into bowls and topped it with fresh parsley and Parmesan for a tasty finish.  A good piece of rustic bread would be delightful alongside — you definitely don’t want to leave any sauce behind.  Quick, simple and delightful food — dinner is served.

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Ingredients

• 1 white onion, diced
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 bunch fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked cubed chicken
• 12 ounces dried penne pasta
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta
• 6 ounces pesto sauce, store-bought or homemade
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• oil for cooking

(Serves 4)

To Prepare:

1. In an electric presser cooker, add 2 teaspoons oil and onion.  Sauté for 3 minutes and add dried spices.
2. Add asparagus and cook for 1 minute, add garlic, stir.  Add cooked chicken, pasta and chicken broth, stir.
3. Cover and steam on high for 8 minutes.  Release pressure immediately, stir.
4. Add ricotta cheese and stir until creamy and incorporated into broth.  Add pesto, stir.
5. Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan.  Enjoy!

Instant Pot Creamy Pesto Chicken and Asparagus Penne is the answer to a quick and delicious meal anytime of the week.