Introduction to Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
When the days grow colder or you’re in need of a comforting meal, nothing beats a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup. But who has the time to simmer it on the stove for hours? This healthy 30-minute Instant Pot chicken noodle soup recipe solves that problem by delivering all the flavor of a traditional soup in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves quick yet nutritious meals, this Instant Pot chicken soup recipe is your go-to.
The beauty of using an Instant Pot for this recipe is the ease and speed it offers. You’ll have a wholesome, nourishing bowl of chicken soup in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights or meal prep sessions. This recipe is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and light noodles, all cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth. Even better, it’s highly customizable to fit various dietary needs—whether you’re gluten-free, low-carb, or following a specific health regimen.
From seniors to students, this chicken soup Instant Pot recipe is a surefire way to satisfy cravings for something warm and hearty without compromising on health or time.
Benefits and Advantages of Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
What sets this Instant Pot chicken noodle soup recipe apart from others is not just its delicious taste, but its numerous benefits. Here’s why this dish should be a staple in your kitchen:
1. Quick and Convenient
Thanks to the power of the Instant Pot, this recipe slashes cooking time while locking in flavor and nutrients. A traditional chicken noodle soup could take hours to prepare, but this version is ready in just 30 minutes. That makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
2. Nutritious and Balanced
Chicken noodle soup is naturally healthy. It’s rich in protein from the chicken, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a great choice for those mindful of their diet. Plus, the broth hydrates and soothes, making it ideal for when you’re under the weather.
3. Customizable to Various Diets
This chicken soup Instant Pot recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re gluten-free, keto, or simply watching your calorie intake, there are easy substitutions you can make without losing any flavor. You can switch out regular noodles for gluten-free or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. Additionally, you can make this soup dairy-free, low-sodium, or even vegan with a few simple tweaks.
4. Affordable and Family-Friendly
Not only is this recipe quick and nutritious, but it’s also budget-friendly. With basic ingredients like chicken, carrots, celery, and noodles, it’s an affordable meal that can easily serve a family. Plus, the recipe can be doubled in the Instant Pot for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients Overview
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
To create the best Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that come together to make a delicious, hearty meal. Here’s what you need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (1 lb): Lean and packed with protein, they become tender and juicy in the Instant Pot.
- Carrots (2 large, sliced): Adds natural sweetness and color to the soup.
- Celery stalks (2, sliced): Provides a subtle flavor and adds texture.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, diced): Adds depth of flavor when sautéed in the pot.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Enhances the savory aspect of the soup.
- Egg noodles (2 cups): Traditional for chicken noodle soup, but can be swapped for gluten-free or low-carb alternatives.
- Chicken broth (6 cups, low-sodium preferred): Forms the base of the soup, giving it a rich flavor.
- Bay leaves (2): Infuses the soup with a subtle herbal note.
- Fresh thyme (1 tsp, optional): For added flavor and a hint of freshness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): A garnish to brighten the dish.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
If you’re looking to tailor this chicken soup Instant Pot recipe to suit specific dietary preferences, here are a few easy substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or rice noodles. Ensure that the broth is also gluten-free by checking labels.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to make a lower-carb version. This also cuts down on the overall calorie count.
- Vegan Option: If you’re cooking for plant-based eaters, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of added salt. You can amplify the flavors by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
With your ingredients ready, follow these easy steps to whip up the perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup in your Instant Pot:
First Step: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by setting your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add the olive oil, then toss in the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Second Step: Add Chicken and Broth
Next, place your chicken breasts or thighs on top of the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is fully submerged. Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give everything a quick stir.
Third Step: Pressure Cook the Chicken Soup
Close the lid of your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come up to pressure before it starts cooking.
Fourth Step: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release. Open the lid and use tongs to remove the cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Shred the chicken using two forks, then return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Fifth Step: Add the Noodles
Turn the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Add the egg noodles to the soup and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
Sixth Step: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs. Remove the bay leaves, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Mastering Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
To elevate your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup or make it uniquely your own, try these expert tips and variations:
1. Boost Flavor with Bone Broth
For an even richer and more nutrient-dense soup, use homemade chicken bone broth instead of regular broth. Bone broth adds more depth and is packed with collagen and minerals that are great for your health.
2. Add Extra Veggies
Feel free to throw in extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking. These additions will not only make the soup heartier but will also boost its nutritional profile.
3. Spice it Up
If you prefer a soup with a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also add fresh ginger for a warming, aromatic twist.
4. Creamy Chicken Soup
If you prefer a creamy version, stir in half a cup of coconut milk or heavy cream after pressure cooking. This will add a luxurious texture and make the soup even more comforting.
How to Store Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe: Best Practices
Leftover chicken noodle soup can easily be stored for later use, making it a great meal-prep option. Here’s how to store and reheat your Instant Pot chicken soup:
- Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers, but leave out the noodles as they can become mushy. Add cooked noodles when you reheat the soup. The soup will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When reheating refrigerated or frozen soup, warm it in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw in the fridge overnight before heating.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on six servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
This soup is a well-balanced meal that’s low in calories but high in protein, making it perfect for those watching their intake while still enjoying a comforting dish.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Soup Instant Pot Recipe
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Simply increase the pressure cooking time to 15 minutes instead of 10 to ensure the chicken cooks through.
2. What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you’re gluten-free or low-carb, you can substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, spiralized zucchini, or cauliflower rice.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, or you can freeze it (minus the noodles) for up to 3 months.
4. How do I make this soup dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you choose to make a creamy version, use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.
5. Is this soup low-carb?
To make the soup low-carb, simply replace the noodles with a low-carb option like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
With its nourishing ingredients, quick cooking time, and versatile dietary options, this 30-minute Instant Pot chicken noodle soup recipe is the perfect go-to meal for any occasion!