Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe

Alright, let me share with you a little secret: this spicy chicken chipotle mac and cheese is like a warm hug wrapped in a cheesy blanket with just the right amount of kick!

My Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac and Cheese 2 is a flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and a touch of smoky heat from chipotle pepper. The creamy goodness of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses meld beautifully with elbow macaroni.

It’s rich in protein and calcium, offering a deliciously comforting meal.

Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: High in protein and low in fat, perfect for lean meals.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat with antioxidants, enhances flavor.
• Chipotle Pepper in Adobo: Adds smoky heat and depth; rich in capsaicin.
• Cheddar Cheese: Creamy and sharp, packed with calcium and protein.
• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta, energy-rich carbohydrates, pairs well with cheese.
• Cilantro: Fresh herb, offers a citrusy note, provides vitamins A and K.

Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make this Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is browned.

2. Add the minced garlic, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce to the pot, stirring to combine for another minute.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pot by scraping any browned bits from the bottom.

4. Add the elbow macaroni, ensuring it is evenly spread and submerged under the liquid.

5. Close the lid, set the pressure release valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.

6. Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to venting.

7. Open the lid, stir in the heavy cream, then add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.

8. Stir in the butter until fully incorporated into the cheese sauce.

9. Turn off the Instant Pot and allow the mac and cheese to thicken slightly for a minute or two, stirring occasionally.

10. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your spicy, creamy chicken chipotle mac and cheese!

Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Instant Pot
2. Cutting board
3. Sharp knife
4. Measuring spoons
5. Measuring cup
6. Wooden spoon or spatula
7. Cheese grater
8. Ladle or large spoon for serving

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini, but cooking times may vary slightly.
• How do I adjust the recipe for extra spice?
  To increase the spice level, you can add an additional chipotle pepper or more adobo sauce to suit your taste.
• Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
  You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter alternative, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
• Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
  Yes, if using pre-cooked chicken, add it in during the final step when combining all ingredients to heat through.
• What cheeses can I substitute in this recipe?
  Feel free to use other melting cheeses like mozzarella or gouda, but cheddar and Monterey Jack provide the best flavor and creaminess.
• How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
  Omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Instant Pot Chicken Chipotle Mac And Cheese 2 Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Substitute the olive oil with avocado oil or canola oil.
• Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper as a substitute for the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a different type of heat.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Use Gouda or Colby Jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack cheese for a different taste profile.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate the Chicken For extra flavor, consider marinating the diced chicken in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a bit of lime juice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness.

2. Roast the Garlic For a deeper, richer flavor, try roasting the garlic cloves before mincing them. Roasting brings out the sweetness in garlic, adding complexity to your dish.

3. Customize the Heat If you prefer more heat, add an additional chipotle pepper or incorporate some of the seeds from the chipotle peppers. Conversely, reduce the adobo sauce if you want it milder.

4. Cheese Quality Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded packaged options. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and results in a smoother, creamier sauce because it lacks the anti-caking agents found in packaged varieties.

5. Broil for a Crisp Top If you like a crispy cheese topping, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish after cooking. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and broil for a few minutes until golden and bubbly.