As the chilly days of winter rolled in, I found myself longing for the warmth and comfort of homemade soup. One evening, cozying up on the couch with a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup felt like the perfect way to unwind. However, with a busy schedule, the idea of spending hours in the kitchen wasn’t appealing at all. That’s when the thought of making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup struck me. Within minutes, it transformed my kitchen into a fragrant haven, filling the air with the aroma of savory broth and tender chicken.
What is Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a modern twist on the classic comfort food that families have enjoyed for generations. It combines the heartiness of chicken, fresh vegetables, and nourishing broth into a single pot meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The Instant Pot, a versatile kitchen appliance, allows you to cook this beloved dish significantly faster than traditional methods. Instead of hours on the stovetop, you can have a piping hot bowl of chicken noodle soup ready in under 30 minutes!
This soup typically features succulent chicken, vibrant carrots, crisp celery, and egg noodles, all simmered together in a savory broth. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in its adaptability. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any home cook.
Whether you’re healing from a cold or simply seeking a comforting bowl of deliciousness, Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the solution. It is both satisfying and soothing, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to warm up during the colder months.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Here are several compelling reasons to whip up this delicious soup:
- Quick and simple to prepare: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort.
- Family-friendly meal: Kids and adults alike love this comforting staple, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
- Great for beginners: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results without feeling overwhelmed.
- Customizable ingredients: You can adjust the vegetables, herbs, or noodles based on personal preference or dietary restrictions, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, veggies, and wholesome goodness, this soup serves as a balanced meal that satisfies.
Overall, this recipe combines convenience and flavor, making it a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you still want something hearty.
Ingredients
To create a delightful pot of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Collect all these ingredients to make sure you have everything at your fingertips while preparing this easy yet comforting dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and let it heat up for a moment.
- Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the chicken breasts into the pot, followed by the chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring it is sealed properly. Set it to ‘Manual’ mode and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes.
- After the cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release of the pressure to remove the lid safely.
- Carefully take the chicken breasts out of the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Mix in the egg noodles and switch the pot back to ‘Sauté’ mode. Allow the noodles to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they reach your desired tenderness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor!
Pro Tips and Variations
To make your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup even better, consider these pro tips and variations:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply add it during the last step to warm through.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to throw in extra veggies such as peas, corn, or spinach for additional nutrients and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
- Richer Flavor: Incorporate a bay leaf during cooking for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a more robust flavor, use low-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Try these variations to make the soup more aligned with your taste preferences or dietary needs!
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is as delightful as preparing it. Here are some suggestions:
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread or rolls for a hearty meal. Dip the bread into the soup for a comforting experience.
- Side Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup perfectly, adding freshness to your meal.
- Herb Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, on top before serving.
- Warm it Up: This soup is delicious on its own, but if you like a little kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
These serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience and make your meal even more enjoyable!
How to Store Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Storing any leftovers properly is key to maintaining both flavor and quality. Here’s how to do it:
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- In the Freezer: If you want to store it longer, consider freezing. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or Ziploc bags and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through or in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave. Stir occasionally to help it heat evenly, and add a little bit of broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage.
By following these tips, you’ll keep your soup tasty and enjoyable even after its initial cooking!
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutrition of your meal can help you make healthier choices. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, assuming you have four servings in the recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: Varies based on broth used
These figures may vary, but they offer a general idea of the nutrients in your delicious bowl of chicken noodle soup.
FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! You can add frozen chicken breasts directly to the pot; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup can be made in advance and reheated. Store it in the fridge or freezer as mentioned.
- What if I don’t have egg noodles? No problem! You can substitute with any noodle type, rice, or even quinoa depending on your preference.
- Is this recipe customizable? Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have available.
These questions address common concerns and enhance your cooking confidence while preparing this versatile recipe.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a quick, nourishing meal to warm you up, look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Its effortless preparation caters to busy schedules while offering comfort and flavor in every bowl. Try this recipe today and share your experience; I’m sure it will soon become a beloved staple in your household. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, it is sure to bring smiles all around!
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and add olive oil. Let it heat up.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and seal properly. Set it to 'Manual' mode and cook for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Mix in the egg noodles and switch the pot back to 'Sauté' mode. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until noodles reach desired tenderness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.