Name: Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast (about 2 large breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes); ¾ cup cottage cheese (2%); ¾ cup Greek yogurt (2%); ⅔ cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (sun dried with no oil or grape tomatoes, halved); 2 tbsp garlic (minced); 2 cups baby spinach; 2 tbsp fresh basil or 1 tsp dried basil; 3 tbsp Italian seasoning; 3 cups chicken broth; 3 cups whole wheat pasta (one 12 oz. box); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 35 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try this Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It combines tender chicken, wholesome whole wheat pasta, and vibrant sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy, herb-infused sauce that’s elevated with fresh spinach and a blend of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. This dish is a perfect weeknight winner that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrition, all whipped up quickly in the Instant Pot for maximum convenience. Once you make it, it’s going to be one of those go-to recipes you keep returning to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many pieces of cooked white chicken chunks mixed with small bits of sun-dried tomatoes. The chicken pieces are off-white with some specks of green herbs and light orange seasoning, and the sun-dried tomato bits add dark red and brown colors. The food is placed closely together in a silver-colored bowl or pot. The focus is on the texture of the chicken which looks soft and well-cooked, with some roughness from the dried tomato pieces. The background has a soft, warm light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each item plays a crucial role—from the sun-dried tomatoes adding depth and sweetness, to the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt creating a silky, creamy texture without heaviness.

Sun-dried tomatoes (1 cup): Use oil-free or halved grape tomatoes for a rich, tangy pop of flavor.
Italian seasoning (3 tbsp): A fragrant blend that gives the dish its classic Tuscan charm.
Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Essential for that aromatic base and subtle savory kick.
Chicken breast (2 lbs): Diced into 1-inch cubes for quick cooking and tender bites.
Chicken broth (3 cups): The flavorful liquid that helps cook the pasta and keeps everything moist.
Whole wheat pasta (3 cups): Adds heartiness and fiber, making this a balanced meal.
Cottage cheese (¾ cup, 2%): Blended for creamy goodness and protein punch.
Greek yogurt (¾ cup, 2%): Boosts creaminess and tang while keeping things light.
Baby spinach (2 cups): For a fresh, vibrant color and nutritious greens.
Fresh basil (2 tbsp) or dried basil (1 tsp): Adds aromatic, herbal brightness.
Parmesan cheese (⅔ cup): Melted in for a hearty cheesy finish.
Salt and pepper (to taste): To enhance all the wonderful flavors.

How to Make Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Tomatoes

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function and lightly spraying the pot with cooking spray. Once hot, add the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until the aromas fill your kitchen—this step really wakes up the flavors and sets the stage for a delicious dish.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, toss in the diced chicken breasts and sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often so every side gets a nice sear. This browning brings out a wonderful savory note that you’ll definitely notice in the finished dish.

Step 3: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Then add the whole wheat pasta, pressing it gently to ensure all noodles are submerged under the liquid. This submersion is key for perfectly cooked pasta under pressure.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for just 3 minutes. This short cooking time keeps the chicken juicy and pasta al dente, which is exactly what you want for this hearty Tuscan-inspired meal.

Step 5: Blend the Creamy Mixture

While the Instant Pot does its thing, blend together cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan until smooth. This creamy combo replaces heavier cream sauces, giving you richness without the guilt, perfectly complementing the savory chicken and tangy tomatoes.

Step 6: Final Stir and Add Greens

Once cooking is complete, quick release the pressure and carefully remove the lid. Stir the pasta and chicken well, then drain any excess liquid but set aside about ¼ cup. Mix this reserved liquid into your cottage cheese blend, then fold it into the pot. Finally, stir in the baby spinach and basil, allowing the greens to wilt gently into the warm pasta. Your Tuscan masterpiece is ready!

How to Serve Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish in a white bowl. The dish has three main layers: at the bottom, there are short, tube-shaped pasta pieces that are light yellow and covered in sauce; the middle layer has chunks of pale chicken mixed in with the pasta; and the top layer includes dark green spinach leaves and small bits of reddish sun-dried tomatoes, all mixed in the creamy white sauce. A silver fork is lifting a bite of pasta, spinach, and chicken from the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate the dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for that salty, nutty finish, and scatter freshly torn basil leaves on top to add a burst of fragrance and color.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving with a crisp green salad or some garlic roasted vegetables, which bring a fresh crunch and balance to the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party vibe, serve this Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil and a wedge of lemon on the side—this adds brightness and makes every serving feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tuscan chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for great next-day lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just note that spinach texture may soften after freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or water to return the sauce to a creamy consistency. Stir often to heat evenly and prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrition, regular pasta works just fine and you can adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for freezer meals?

Yes, it freezes well, though the texture of spinach might soften. You can also add fresh spinach after reheating if you prefer a fresher bite.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Sure! This recipe works nicely with turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian spin, just adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s a mild and creamy pasta, but if you like a kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes during the sauté step for a gentle heat boost.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?

Definitely – the recipe includes slow cooker instructions that produce similarly delicious results, just with a longer cook time.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those cherished meals that feels indulgent yet keeps your wellness goals intact. It’s a perfect harmony of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors that come together quickly and easily. I’m so excited for you to give it a try and see just how effortlessly impressive dinner can be!