Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Pasta

This Instant Pot lemon chicken pasta recipe is tangy, creamy and features chicken, veggies and lemon. It’s an easy and comforting dinner idea full of fresh flavor.

Pasta fans might also like this BLT pasta salad, lasagna al forno or how about making this feta baked pasta or salsa fresca chicken?

Why You’ll Love It

Quick to prepare: The Instant Pot cuts your cooking time and effort dramatically.
Bright, zesty flavor: Lemon and fresh vegetables add a refreshing twist.
All-in-one meal: Protein, carbs and veggies come together in one dish.
Minimal cleanup: Fewer dishes make this a go-to weeknight dinner.

Instant Pot Chicken Pasta with Zucchini and Squash Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and brings everything together.
Chicken broth: Infuses the pasta with savory depth and moisture.
Lemon juice and zest: Provide a citrusy brightness that balances the richness.
Chicken tenderloins: Quick-cooking, lean protein that stays juicy.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
Squash and zucchini: Fresh vegetables that add color and texture.
Garlic: Boosts the overall savory flavor of the dish.
Red pepper flakes: Add a hint of heat without overpowering.
Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes of the vegetables and chicken.
Parmesan: Melts into the sauce for a savory, cheesy finish.
Parsley: Adds freshness and color if used as a garnish.

How to Make Zesty Lemon Chicken Cavatappi

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Cook the pasta: Add the pasta, broth and lemon juice to the Instant Pot. Pressure cook, allow a brief natural release, then set aside.
Season and sauté the chicken: Toss chicken with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Sauté in the Instant Pot.
Add the butter: Stir butter into the pot with the chicken to begin building the sauce.
Prep and season the veggies: Chop the squash and zucchini. Toss with garlic, lemon juice, red pepper and onion powder.
Cook the vegetables: Add seasoned vegetables to the Instant Pot and sauté until tender.
Combine and finish: Stir the pasta and parmesan into the chicken and vegetable mixture.

Substitutions and Variations

Use a different protein: Swap chicken for turkey or shrimp if preferred.
Try other veggies: Bell peppers or asparagus would also work well.
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream with the parmesan for a richer sauce.
Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make your lemon chicken pasta with veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizers: Begin your meal with an antipasto salad or perhaps mushroom focaccia with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping.
Side dishes: Enjoy a parmesan lemon chopped salad or a tomato and burrata salad with your lemon chicken pasta.
Dessert: Finish off with a classic tiramisu.

How to Store Lemon Chicken Pasta with Veggies

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eat within 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw: Defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat: You can warm it back up in a pan on the stove or in the microwave.