Introduction

Nothing is more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. Making it at home can seem time-consuming, but the Instant Pot simplifies the process. This modern appliance creates a hearty, homemade soup in less time. If you love quick, delicious meals, this recipe will become a favorite. Plus, using the Instant Pot helps preserve the soup’s flavors.

In this guide, we will show you how to make Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any season. With its tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s hard to resist. Keep reading to learn the benefits, ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions for making this comforting dish.

Benefits of Making Chicken Noodle Soup in an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot offers many advantages when preparing chicken noodle soup. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Time-saving: Traditional methods take hours, but the Instant Pot cooks your soup in about 30 minutes.
• Flavorful results: Pressure cooking locks in the essential flavors of the chicken, herbs, and vegetables.
• Efficient cooking: You can sauté, pressure cook, and keep the soup warm all in one pot.
• Nutritious meals: Homemade soup allows you to control the ingredients. You can add fresh vegetables and choose low-sodium broth.
• Convenient cleanup: With just one pot to wash, cleanup is quick and easy.

Using the Instant Pot simplifies the process without compromising taste. This makes it ideal for busy families or anyone short on time. The result is a delicious, homemade soup that’s perfect for cold nights or quick lunches.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

To create this delicious Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender meat.
• Noodles: Egg noodles are the classic choice for chicken noodle soup.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions add flavor and texture.
• Broth: Chicken broth serves as the base of the soup. Opt for a low-sodium version for better control of salt.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Seasonings: Add dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaves for a well-rounded taste.
• Olive oil: Use for sautéing the vegetables.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste.
• Lemon juice (optional): Adds a bright, fresh flavor to the soup.

These ingredients are easy to find and come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish. Make sure to prepare all items before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Equipment Needed

To make Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Instant Pot: This is essential for pressure cooking the soup.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and chicken.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Use for stirring and sautéing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure broth, seasonings, and other ingredients.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easier.

Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process. It also reduces the chance of delays while preparing the soup.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Follow these simple steps to make Instant Pot chicken noodle soup:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the carrots, celery, and onions into small pieces.
• Mince the garlic.
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or leave whole, depending on your preference.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting.
• Add olive oil and let it heat.
• Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir for about 5 minutes until softened.

3. Add the Chicken and Broth

• Place the chicken pieces into the pot.
• Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients.
• Add the dried thyme, parsley, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.

4. Pressure Cook the Soup

• Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
• Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and cook for 10 minutes on high pressure.
• Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, carefully do a quick release to remove the remaining pressure.

5. Shred the Chicken (if needed)

• Open the lid and remove the chicken pieces. Use two forks to shred the meat, then return it to the pot.

6. Cook the Noodles

• Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting.
• Add the egg noodles and let them cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Adjust the Seasoning

• Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor if desired.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Following these steps ensures you’ll create a delicious, comforting bowl of Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re feeling under the weather. Enjoy this homemade classic with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Making the perfect instant pot chicken noodle soup is easy if you follow a few simple steps. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time:

• Use fresh ingredients. Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor.
• Choose the right noodles. Egg noodles work best as they hold their texture well.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Cooking too long can make it dry.
• Add spices gradually. Taste the soup as you season to avoid overpowering the flavor.
• Let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors blend together.

By following these tips, you can make a bowl of soup that is flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.

How to Customize Your Soup

One of the best things about instant pot chicken noodle soup is how easy it is to customize. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add More Vegetables

• Include spinach or kale for added nutrients.
• Carrots, celery, and onions are classics, but you can also try zucchini or bell peppers.

Change the Protein

• Swap chicken with turkey or tofu for a different flavor.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken can save time and add a roasted taste.

Experiment with Spices

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Try fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

Use Different Noodles

• Whole wheat noodles can add fiber.
• Rice noodles are a great gluten-free option.

With these ideas, you can adapt the soup to fit your taste or dietary needs. And since it’s so versatile, everyone can enjoy it.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures your instant pot chicken noodle soup stays fresh. Here’s what to do:

Storing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe bags or containers.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stove over low heat for the best texture.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and stir in between.
• Add a little broth or water if the soup is too thick after storing.

By following these tips, you’ll maintain the soup’s flavor and texture even after a few days.

Nutritional Information about Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Instant pot chicken noodle soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here are some key points about its nutritional value:

• It’s high in protein from the chicken.
• Vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
• Low in fat, especially if you use lean chicken.
• You can control the sodium by using low-sodium broth.
• Noodles provide energy-boosting carbohydrates.

A typical serving of the soup contains around:

• 200-300 calories
• 15-20g of protein
• 25-30g of carbohydrates
• 5-7g of fat

Making the soup at home allows you to adjust the ingredients to meet your nutritional needs. It’s a healthy and filling meal option.

FAQs section about instant pot chicken noodle soup

What is the best setting for soup in Instant Pot?
The best setting for soup in Instant Pot depends on your needs. For a quick and flavorful soup, the Pressure Cook setting is ideal. It uses high pressure to cook ingredients faster while retaining flavors. However, if you prefer a slow-simmered broth, the Soup/Broth setting works well. It allows the ingredients to cook at a lower temperature for a longer time, resulting in a rich, savory soup.

Why is my Instant Pot chicken so tough?
If your Instant Pot chicken turns out tough, it’s likely due to overcooking or using the wrong cut. Overcooking can cause the meat to become dry and chewy. To prevent this, make sure to set the right cooking time, especially when using cuts like chicken breasts. Additionally, using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces or chicken thighs can help keep the meat tender and juicy.

Why add vinegar to chicken noodle soup?
Adding vinegar to chicken noodle soup can enhance the flavors. It adds a slight tang that balances the richness of the broth, making the soup taste more vibrant. Furthermore, vinegar can help cut through the fattiness of the chicken and other ingredients, giving the soup a more balanced and refreshing taste.

Can you put raw chicken in soup and cook it?
Yes, you can put raw chicken in soup and cook it directly in the Instant Pot. In fact, the Instant Pot is perfect for cooking raw chicken quickly while retaining its flavor and moisture. Simply add the raw chicken along with your other ingredients, and set the pressure cooking time accordingly. This method helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the soup, making it tender and delicious.

Conclusion

Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a comforting and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare. By following the tips shared here, you can make a delicious soup every time. Don’t forget to customize it to suit your preferences. Plus, with proper storage, you can enjoy leftovers that taste just as good as the fresh batch. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a nutritious option, this soup is a perfect choice. Try making it today and experience the difference fresh ingredients and thoughtful preparation can make! For more tips on making the best soup in your Instant Pot, check out this complete guide.