Instant Pot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is the ultimate easy comfort meal loaded with tender chicken, creamy cheese, Italian dressing (yes, really), and pasta that soaks up all the flavour.
This Olive Garden Chicken Instant Pot Pasta recipe provides just that comfort food, made easier, faster, and creamier. With the help of the Instant Pot, this dish becomes a one-pot creamy dream.
In this guide, I’ll share with you the best version of this viral pasta dish, offer tips, swaps, share my personal experience, and include a few chef tricks to make it better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 oz Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing (or any zesty Italian dressing)
- 8 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¾ tsp salt
For Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra parmesan
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Instant Pot
Step 1: Season & Layer
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Sprinkle it with garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
Step 2: Add Dressing & Cook
Pour Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the chicken. Add cubed cream cheese on top. Do not stir. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Natural Release & Shred
Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release. Open the lid and shred the chicken with two forks directly in the pot.
Step 4: Add Pasta & Broth
Pour in pasta and chicken broth. Stir everything together. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Quickly release pressure once done.
Step 5: Stir in Cheese & Serve
Add parmesan and stir until thoroughly combined and creamy. Garnish and serve warm!
Why I Make This On Repeat (Personal Story)
As a mom juggling work, dinner, and kids’ homework, the Instant Pot has been a game-changer and this recipe is my secret weapon. I’ve made it with frozen chicken, skipped the ranch, added spinach, even swapped in tortellini once it always works.
The texture of the pasta, the creamy tang of the sauce, the juicy chicken it’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl.
And the best part? Minimal cleanup, maximum reward.
Chef’s Tips (Expert Advice)
“Don’t stir the cream cheese before pressure cooking—it helps prevent burning notice.” Chef Emma K.
“Use short pasta shapes like rotini or penne to trap all that delicious sauce!” Chef Marco R.
“Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a colourful and flavorful boost.” Chef Lila G.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Keep it balanced and delicious with these sides:
- Garlic Bread – Classic combo with creamy pasta
- Caesar Salad – Crisp, refreshing contrast
- Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus – For a healthy veggie kick
- White Wine or Sparkling Water – Complements the creaminess.
- Lemon-Parmesan Zucchini – Bright and zesty side
Conclusion
In a fraction of the time, you can enjoy the soothing aromas of a restaurant favourite with this Speedy Instant Pot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. This dish is ideal for hectic weeknights since it combines perfectly cooked pasta, a rich and creamy sauce, and tender chicken all in one pot.
I hope you enjoy the recipe. Please try it at home and share your thoughts in the comments below.
FAQS
Q1: Does cooking chicken longer in the Instant Pot make it more tender?
Yes, to a point pressure cooking chicken longer can break down connective tissue and make it more tender, but overcooking may dry it out or make it mushy.
Q2: Does pasta need to be covered in the Instant Pot?
Yes, pasta should be fully submerged in liquid in the Instant Pot to cook evenly and avoid burning.
Q3: Why is my Instant Pot chicken rubbery?
Rubbery chicken typically results from undercooking or not allowing the natural pressure release; both factors affect the texture.
Q4: Does Olive Garden have chicken cacciatore?
No, Chicken Cacciatore is not a regular item on Olive Garden’s menu.
