Imagine coming home after a long day, your tummy rumbling as you crave a comforting dish that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious. This Instant Pot Chicken Mac and Cheese is the answer to all your comfort food dreams. With tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish combines in just one pot for an effortless cleanup. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant Pot Chicken Mac and Cheese is a meal that checks all the boxes for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s quick, creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein thanks to the chicken. You get that “homemade” feel without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Perfectly seasoned and with the addition of nutmeg for warmth, this dish is not just filling but also full of flavor.

Ingredients

4 cups (400 grams) dried pasta
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (500 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups (475 ml) vegetable stock (add more if needed to cover the pasta)
1 cup (236 ml) heavy cream
2½ cups (250 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

How To Make Instant Pot Chicken mac and Cheese

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat for a minute. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. The aromas will be simply irresistible!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the cubed chicken breasts into the pot. Season with salt and black pepper, and sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned on all sides. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage since it will finish cooking later in the process.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Stock

Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour in the vegetable stock. Next, add the dried pasta to the pot, making sure it is submerged in the stock. If needed, add a bit more vegetable stock to ensure the pasta is covered.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the manual pressure cook setting and set the timer for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release of the pressure.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

After the pressure has been released, carefully open the lid. The pasta should be perfectly cooked. Add in the butter, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and ground nutmeg. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce enveloping the pasta and chicken—heavenly!

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste your mac and cheese to see if it needs any additional seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper to your preference. Serve it up hot, garnishing with extra cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Expert Tips

For extra creaminess, consider using a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.
If you prefer a bit of spice, add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce when combining the cheese and cream.
To make this dish easier for meal prep, cook a larger batch and portion it out for the week ahead.
Be cautious with the vegetable stock; if it’s too salty, adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.

Variations and Customizations

Swap the chicken for cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with your favorite veggies such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Want to add a crunch? Stir in some breadcrumbs before serving or sprinkle them on top and broil briefly.
Experiment with different pasta types—gluten-free pasta works well, too!

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have more time on your hands, it can also be frozen in portions. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the pasta as needed.

FAQ

Can I make this dish without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can make this dish on the stovetop by using a large pot. Sauté the ingredients as per the recipe, then add water or broth and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter version or use a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option. Just be aware this may slightly alter the final creaminess.

How can I make my mac and cheese extra cheesy?

For a cheesier texture, use a mixture of different cheeses such as Fontina or Monterey Jack alongside cheddar. Adding shredded cheese gradually while stirring will also enhance the cheesiness!

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the cooking instructions as outlined for fresh mac and cheese in no time.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightfully easy recipe that brings comfort to your table without spending hours cooking. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Gather your loved ones, serve this dish, and enjoy the smiles that follow every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

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