Instant Pot Chicken Con Broccoli

Step 1

In the Instant Pot, add 4 cups water, orecchiette, and 1 teaspoon salt. Do not stir. Layer the fresh or frozen chicken right on top of the noodles.

Step 2

Lock the lid, and turn the knob to SEALING.

Step 3

Cook for 8 minutes on manual high pressure.

Step 4

When the Instant Pot beeps that the pressure cooking has completed and the display shows "L0:00", perform a quick release by turning the knob from sealing to venting in short bursts. Releasing the pressure in bursts will prevent foam and liquid from spewing out of the sealing knob. This process may take about 5 minutes. If liquid starts coming out, turn the knob to sealing again, and wait 10 seconds to allow the contents to settle.

Step 5

Upon opening the lid, remove the chicken pieces to a cutting board.

Step 6

Quickly add the mini broccoli florets to the Instant Pot and stir. Replace the lid and let the broccoli steam in the residual water and heat with the orecchiette for about 5 minutes or until broccoli is al dente (do not pressure cook again). The time will depend on how large your broccoli pieces are. This allows the orecchiette to absorb more water, creating a better texture.

Step 7

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with 1/2 t. salt and 1/2 t. pepper.

Step 8

After the broccoli is al dente, drain the noodles and broccoli in a colander/strainer. Keep the Instant Pot lid on top of the colander after draining to keep warm.

Step 9

Turn the Instant Pot to high saute*. Add butter and garlic and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chicken, and brown until the chicken has some golden coloring, about 5 minutes.

Step 10

Deglaze the pot with 1/4 cup chicken broth or milk. Scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the browned bits off.

Step 11

In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, shredded parmesan cheese (not grated), egg yolks, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the chicken and and mix to combine.

Step 12

Pour the orecchiette and broccoli on top and mix until combined and the cheese is melted.

Step 13

Serve with additional parmesan cheese and chopped parsley to garnish, if desired.