Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With just a few ingredients and an Instant Pot, you can whip up a warm bowl of this classic soup in no time. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, and it’s loved by both kids and adults for its delicious flavors and heartwarming aroma.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 28 grams
- Carbohydrates: 36 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty broth. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize the veggies or herbs based on what you have on hand, making it a great go-to recipe for any occasion.
How to Make Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mixing
Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring everything is submerged.
Step 3: Cooking
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to ‘Manual’ mode for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release to let the steam escape.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the egg noodles. Continue cooking on ‘Sauté’ mode for about 5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning before serving.
How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon or a splash of hot sauce to each bowl before eating.
How to Store Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit more broth if it has thickened.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
- For deeper flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
- If you prefer more vegetables, feel free to add peas, corn, or bell peppers.
- Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences; adding more herbs can enhance the flavor profile.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time of the egg noodles, as different brands may require varying times.
Delicious Variations
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after cooking for a richer texture.
- Herby Variation: Add a handful of fresh herbs like dill or basil for a fresher taste.
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken breasts will work well in this recipe; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. -
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. -
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. -
Is it okay to skip the sauté step?
While you can skip sautéing, browning the onions and garlic builds flavor in the soup. -
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a delightful and straightforward recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its rich flavors and heartiness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy goodness of homemade chicken noodle soup!
