Moments shared over a warm bowl of pasta have their own quiet magic. The soft swirl of spaghetti, the aroma of basil, and the rich tomato warmth that fills the room—everything about this dish whispers comfort and connection.
Made in an Instant Pot, this Chicken Spaghetti is the kind of meal that feels intimate and effortless, perfect for those evenings when love and flavor meet halfway in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- Romance meets simplicity: It delivers a cozy, restaurant-quality dinner without the stress or long prep time, making it ideal for date nights or slow evenings at home.
- Instant Pot perfection: Cooking everything in one pot locks in flavor, keeps the chicken tender, and ensures the pasta cooks perfectly al dente in minutes.
- Balanced, aromatic flavor: The basil, cherry tomatoes, and marinara create layers of brightness, sweetness, and depth that feel both homely and refined.
- No babysitting required: The pressure cooking magic allows you to focus on setting the table—or opening that bottle of wine—while your dinner cooks itself.
- Creamy texture without cream: The starch from the pasta and sauce mingles beautifully, coating each strand with silky, flavorful richness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ onion, chopped
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small bunch fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 7 oz (200 g) dry spaghetti or bucatini pasta
- 2 cups pasta sauce (tomato basil or marinara)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp oregano
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving tongs or fork
- A deep pasta bowl or plate for serving
Instructions
Sauté the Chicken with Olive Oil
Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté (Low) and drizzle in olive oil. As it warms, it releases that subtle fruity scent that promises something delicious ahead. Add the ground chicken, gently breaking it apart with your spoon.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes until it turns from pink to a light golden brown. The Instant Pot will hum softly, almost like background music to your cooking rhythm. You’ll notice tiny sizzling sounds—an invitation to stir and breathe in the savory aroma.
Add the Aromatics and Fresh Tomatoes
Once the chicken has begun to brown, add the chopped onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. The moment they hit the pot, the fragrance deepens—the basil’s sweet perfume intertwining with the warmth of onion.
Sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, letting the tomatoes soften and release their juices. This brief moment creates the dish’s heart, infusing it with love and character.
Tip: Tear the basil leaves instead of chopping to preserve their natural oils and fragrance.
Pour in the Sauce and Pasta
Next, pour in the pasta sauce, followed by the water. Give it a light stir, just enough to bring everything together. Now, gently add the dry spaghetti or bucatini, breaking them in half if needed so they fit evenly into the pot.
Press the noodles down lightly until submerged in the liquid. Don’t stir too much—just ensure every strand has a touch of moisture. This small detail ensures each noodle cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce perfectly.
Season and Seal
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and oregano. The oregano adds that quiet Mediterranean touch, a whisper of warmth that lingers beneath the tomato’s sweetness. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (High) for 8 minutes.
As the pot builds pressure, take a moment to dim the lights, set the table, and let the anticipation simmer along with your dinner. Tip: For a softer noodle texture, add an extra minute of cooking time; for firmer pasta, stick to 8 minutes exactly.
Quick Release and Gentle Stir
When the timer beeps, perform a quick release of pressure. Steam rises, carrying with it the scent of tomato and basil—like a sigh of relief after a long day. Open the lid carefully, then use tongs or a wooden spoon to gently stir the pasta.
You’ll find it perfectly al dente, each strand tender but still firm, coated with a luxurious tomato sauce that clings lovingly to every piece of chicken.
Serve and Share
Spoon the chicken spaghetti into two warm bowls. The sauce glistens under the light, the colors vivid and comforting. Top with a few torn basil leaves for a touch of green elegance.
Add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if you’d like, or a hint of grated Parmesan to bring out the savory depth. Sit together, forks in hand, and let that first bite remind you why food and affection are inseparable.
Tips and Tricks
Getting the Texture Just Right
The trick to flawless Instant Pot pasta is liquid balance. Two cups of sauce plus two cups of water create just enough steam and moisture for al dente results. Avoid over-stirring before pressure cooking—let the noodles rest gently in the sauce so they don’t clump. If the sauce seems too thick after cooking, stir in a few tablespoons of warm water or olive oil to loosen it.
Flavor Deepening Secrets
Want a deeper, more romantic flavor profile? Stir in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar or a splash of red wine right before sealing the lid. The acid balances the sweetness of the tomato and adds subtle complexity. Alternatively, you can toss in a small pat of butter after cooking to enrich the sauce with a silky, mellow finish.
The Basil and Tomato Dance
Use fresh basil, not dried. Its vibrant aroma and soft sweetness turn this simple pasta into something truly special. If basil isn’t in season, a small handful of spinach can mimic that green freshness without overpowering the dish. Always add a few fresh leaves at the end—they bloom beautifully against the heat of the pasta.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the sauce’s creaminess. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even more luxurious meal the next day.
A Perfect Pairing
Serve your chicken spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad with lemon dressing. A glass of red wine or even sparkling water with lime will elevate your dinner from casual to quietly romantic. Food, after all, tastes better when shared in good company.
Recipe Variations
- Creamy Chicken Spaghetti: Stir in ¼ cup of cream cheese or heavy cream after pressure cooking for a velvety, indulgent finish.
- Spicy Date Night Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for a subtle, warming heat that complements the basil beautifully.
- Veggie Lover’s Delight: Mix in baby spinach, zucchini ribbons, or mushrooms before sealing the lid for extra body and nutrition.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan into the hot pasta before serving for a gooey, irresistible coating.
- Mediterranean Mood: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for a flavor that transports you straight to the Italian coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time slightly. Whole wheat pasta may need an extra minute, while gluten-free pasta often cooks faster—around 6 minutes. Always let the pasta rest for a couple of minutes after opening the lid so it can absorb any remaining sauce evenly.
Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, pork, or even crumbled tofu all work beautifully. The sauce is versatile and forgiving, so whatever protein you use will soak up that basil-tomato goodness. If you’re vegetarian, just skip the meat and double up on cherry tomatoes for a fresh, light twist.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Make sure every strand is lightly submerged before sealing the lid, and avoid heavy stirring before pressure cooking. After cooking, gently toss the noodles with tongs to separate them. A small drizzle of olive oil after cooking can also prevent sticking while adding a silky finish.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce feels watery after cooking, set the Instant Pot back to Sauté (Low) and let it simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The extra heat will reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but ensure your Instant Pot is large enough—never fill it more than halfway with pasta and liquid. The cooking time stays the same, though pressure build-up may take slightly longer.
Summary
Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti turns a humble weeknight dinner into a moment worth savoring. Every forkful delivers tender chicken, fragrant basil, and glossy noodles bathed in tomato warmth. Whether shared with someone special or enjoyed solo by candlelight, it’s proof that love doesn’t need fancy plating—it just needs good food made with care.
Instant Pot Chicken Spaghetti for Two
Course: Cooking4
servings10
minutes15
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground chicken
½ onion, chopped
10 cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small bunch basil leaves
1 tbsp olive oil
7 oz (200 g) dry spaghetti or bucatini pasta
2 cups pasta sauce (tomato basil or marinara)
2 cups water
1 tsp salt
½ tsp oregano
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté (Low) and add olive oil. Once hot, add ground chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add chopped onion, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Stir and continue sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in pasta sauce, water, and dry spaghetti (break in half if needed). Gently stir to ensure all pasta is covered in liquid.
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and oregano. Close and lock the lid.
- Set to Pressure Cook (High) for 8 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
- Open the lid and give it a gentle stir. Serve immediately, garnished with basil or Parmesan if desired.
Joseph Hudson has been raising chickens for over 15 years. In 2018, he completed the Agriculture & Natural Resources program at Mt. San Antonio College. He currently raises over 1400 chickens on his 7.5-hectare farm. He keeps sharing his experience on raising healthy and happy chickens on Chicken Scratch The Foundry.
