Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

An easy recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish for cold winter days! This comforting soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a warm meal, this soup will surely hit the spot. Serve it with bread, rolls, or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful: A blend of herbs and fresh ingredients delivers a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with lean chicken and nutritious vegetables, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time significantly while infusing flavors deeply into the soup.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of herbs and spices to enhance flavor balance.

Ingredients

An easy recipe for Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, perfect for cold winter days! Serve it with bread, rolls or crackers for a quick, easy and comforting meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
– 4 medium carrots (peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces)
– 4 ribs celery (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 8 cups low sodium chicken broth (can use 4 cups broth and 4 cups water, if desired)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 ounces egg noodles
– chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring occasionally until veggies start to soften—about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, then press Cancel to turn off the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Add Ingredients

Add dried oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Nestle the boneless chicken breasts into the broth mixture.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and turn the valve to sealing position. Pressure cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. The pot will take about 20 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure

When cooking time ends, allow natural release for about 10 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once pin drops down, open the lid. Remove bay leaf and discard. Transfer chicken to a plate or cutting board to rest briefly before shredding.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Press Cancel again on your Instant Pot. Select Sauté, then add egg noodles directly into the pot. Let them simmer about 5 minutes until just tender before turning off.

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Stir shredded chicken back into the soup mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. Serving it with complementary sides can enhance the meal experience and make it even more enjoyable.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a robust flavor that complements the savory notes of the soup.

Add Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a delightful texture alongside your bowl of soup.

Serve with Crackers

• Saltines: Classic choice that adds a bit of crunch and saltiness to each spoonful.
• Whole Grain Crackers: A healthier alternative that pairs well with the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

To ensure your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs when possible to elevate the taste and aroma of your soup.
• Chicken Quality: Opt for high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor and texture in your final dish.
• Customize Noodles: Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles based on dietary needs, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
• Balance Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds gooey cheese goodness alongside your hot soup.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and veggies offer a nutritious complement to the meal.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, moist cornbread muffins add a delightful touch of sweetness to balance the savory soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with warm broth.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can enhance nutrition while adding vibrant colors to your table.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs provides a healthy, hearty side option for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, small oversights can lead to a less-than-perfect dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step – Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavors. Always sauté before adding liquids.
• Not Seasoning Adequately – Insufficient seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Using Whole Chicken Pieces – For even cooking, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook more evenly and shred easily.
• Forgetting to Remove the Bay Leaf – Leaving the bay leaf in the soup can give an unwanted bitter taste. Remember to discard it before serving.
• Overcooking the Noodles – Noodles can become mushy if overcooked. Add them towards the end of cooking for perfect texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a quick, hearty meal made using an electric pressure cooker that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 55 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables like peas or corn, swap egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free options, or adjust seasonings according to your taste.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with lean protein from chicken and nutritious vegetables while being low in calories and sodium.

How do I ensure my noodles don’t get soggy?

Add noodles towards the end of cooking time and avoid overcooking them. They should simmer just until tender.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Perfect for chilly days or when feeling under the weather, you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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