We’re excited to share our delectable Instant Pot Chicken Soup recipe with you! Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this comforting soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The convenient Instant Pot method ensures that you can enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal in no time. So, grab your apron and get ready to savor a bowlful of pure comfort. Let’s get cooking!
Delicious Instant Pot Chicken Soup Recipe
Are you in the mood for a warm and comforting meal that is both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Soup recipe! Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this soup will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Chicken broth
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bay leaves
- Thyme
- Salt and pepper
- Noodles
Instructions
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to prepare this mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken Soup.
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by preparing the ingredients for the soup. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, and measure out the chicken broth and seasonings.
Step 2: Sauté the vegetables
Select the sauté function on your Instant Pot and heat a drizzle of oil. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot, and sauté them for a few minutes until they begin to soften and develop a rich aroma. This step helps to enhance the flavors of the vegetables in the soup.
Step 3: Add chicken, broth, and seasonings
Now it’s time to add the star of the show – the chicken! Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the sautéed vegetables in the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken broth, adding enough to cover the chicken and vegetables. Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper for a boost of flavor.
Step 4: Pressure cook
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly and becomes tender. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.
Step 5: Shred the chicken
Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and shred them using two forks. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easy to shred. Once shredded, return the chicken to the pot, stirring it into the flavorful broth and vegetables.
Step 6: Add the noodles
For a heartier soup, you can add noodles at this stage. Simply add the noodles to the Instant Pot and cook them according to their package instructions. Typically, this will involve simmering the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes until the noodles are al dente. Be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type and thickness of noodles you are using.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Once the noodles are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve up your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Soup! Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a burst of freshness. Pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting soup with your loved ones.
Tips and Variations
Now that you have mastered the basic Instant Pot Chicken Soup recipe, let’s explore some tips and variations to customize it to your liking:
Use chicken thighs for added flavor
If you prefer a richer flavor profile, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. The darker meat of the chicken thighs lends itself to a more flavorful and tender result in the soup.
Add additional vegetables like peas or corn
Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables to make the soup even more nutritious and colorful. Peas, corn, or even diced potatoes can be wonderful additions to the soup, providing extra texture and flavor.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste
Every palate is different, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your personal preferences. Add a little more salt and pepper, or perhaps a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices. Don’t be afraid to make the soup your own!
Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream
For a truly indulgent and creamy soup, consider stirring in a small amount of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of the cooking process. This will give the soup a luxurious and velvety texture, elevating it to a whole new level of comfort.
Health Benefits of Instant Pot Chicken Soup
Not only is this Instant Pot Chicken Soup incredibly delicious, but it also offers several health benefits that make it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Here are some of the health benefits you can expect from indulging in this comforting soup:
Boosts immune system
Chicken soup has long been regarded as a natural remedy for colds and flu. The hearty broth and chicken provide essential nutrients that help to boost the immune system, making it easier for your body to fight off infections and stay healthy.
Promotes hydration
As chicken soup is primarily made with a flavorful broth, it is a fantastic way to stay hydrated. The broth replenishes fluids in the body, making it an excellent option for those who are feeling under the weather or simply in need of a comforting and nourishing meal.
Provides essential nutrients
Homemade chicken soup is a great source of essential nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables contribute an array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.
Aids in digestion
The warm and easily digestible nature of chicken soup can be soothing for the digestive system. It is gentle on the stomach, making it a go-to option for those with digestive issues or an upset stomach.
Helps with weight loss
Chicken soup can be a smart choice for those looking to shed some pounds. The soup is low in calories and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, curbing cravings and reducing overall calorie intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
As you embark on your Instant Pot Chicken Soup adventure, you may have some questions along the way. Here are answers to some common questions that may come to mind:
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Consider adding a couple of extra minutes to the pressure cooking time to account for the frozen chicken.
How long does it take to cook in the Instant Pot?
The total cooking time, including the pressure cooking and natural release, is approximately 25-30 minutes. This includes the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. It’s a relatively quick and convenient meal option, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. You can make a big batch of soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Instant Pot Chicken Soup for later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stovetop.
Can I use homemade broth instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! While store-bought chicken broth is convenient, using homemade broth adds an extra layer of flavor to the soup. If you have homemade broth on hand, feel free to use it in this recipe. The flavors will be even more delicious and satisfying.
Conclusion
With its comforting flavors, simple preparation, and numerous health benefits, Instant Pot Chicken Soup is a must-try recipe for any soup lover. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a hearty meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot. From sautéing the vegetables to pressure cooking and adding the final touches, every step of the process is a breeze when using an Instant Pot. So grab your ingredients, set aside some time, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of delicious and soul-warming Instant Pot Chicken Soup.
