This Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan has become my go-to method for a quick, flavorful family meal. We brown the chicken, pressure-cook for a minute, then finish with melted cheese and fresh herbs for a satisfying result.
If you enjoy Chicken Parmesan, you’ll want to try this version right away — and be sure to save the recipe. It’s fast, reliable, and perfect for busy weeknights.
When I tell people it’s “1-minute chicken Parmesan,” they’re always surprised — and then even more impressed after trying it. The trick is following the notes and steps exactly so the chicken cooks through and stays juicy.
The finished dish is tender, well-seasoned chicken topped with gooey mozzarella and fresh basil. It pairs beautifully with any pasta, such as bucatini or spaghetti.
How to make Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
- Select four chicken fillets or two full chicken breasts cut lengthwise (butterflied). Thinner pieces work best for the quick cook time.
Alternatively, pound the breasts to an even thickness with a meat mallet to tenderize and ensure even cooking.
Note: If using whole, thicker chicken breasts, increase the high-pressure cook time to 2 minutes and allow 10 minutes natural pressure release.
2. Season the chicken well on both sides with salt, pepper, and the spices of your choice.
3. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add oil and, when hot, brown the chicken on both sides until golden — about 3 minutes per side. You may need to work in batches so the pieces do not overlap and remain in contact with the pot surface.
4. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
5. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté briefly, about 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Pour in marinara sauce and return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the sauce so the pieces are mostly submerged.
7. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 1 minute. When the cycle ends, perform a quick pressure release (QPR).
8. Open the lid, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and chopped fresh basil (or parsley) over the chicken, then cover and let rest 3–5 minutes so the cheese melts. Serve over pasta or with a side of vegetables.
Try these easy and delicious chicken recipes next:
One Pan Chicken and Rice
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs and Vegetables
Chicken Jambalaya
Braised Chicken with Mushrooms and Broccoli
Sheet Pan Bruschetta Chicken
Dry-Rubbed Oven Baked Chicken Wings
If you try this Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan, please leave a comment or rating — I love hearing feedback and do my best to respond. And if you share it on Instagram, tag the creator so I can see your results!
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
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Equipment
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Instant pot
Ingredients
- 4 chicken fillets or 2 full breasts butterflied
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- sea salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika, garlic powder, oregano (each)
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- fresh basil
Instructions
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Mix the seasonings with salt and pepper in a small bowl. Season the chicken well on both sides and set aside.
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Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and add the oil. When hot, brown the chicken on both sides until golden, about 3 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed so pieces do not overlap.
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Transfer the chicken to a plate. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté briefly, about 1 minute.
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Pour in the marinara sauce and return the chicken to the pot, trying to submerge it as much as possible.
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Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then quick release the pressure.
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Open the pot, top with mozzarella and fresh basil, cover, and let rest 3–5 minutes for the cheese to melt. Serve over pasta.
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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