There’s just something about a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup that warms the soul, isn’t there? For me, it takes me right back to my childhood, sitting around the kitchen table with my family on a chilly winter evening. The aroma of the homemade broth, the tender chunks of chicken, and the perfectly cooked noodles – it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.
My grandma was the master of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. She’d spend hours simmering the broth, coaxing out every last bit of flavor from the chicken bones and veggies. And when that piping hot soup was ready, she’d ladle it into our bowls, making sure we had just the right ratio of noodles, chicken, and broth. It was her way of showing us how much she loved us, and to this day, that flavor profile transports me right back to those cozy family dinners.
Now, as an adult, I’ve perfected my own Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, and it’s become a staple in my household. Whenever I’m feeling under the weather or just need a little comfort, I whip up a batch in my trusty Instant Pot. It’s so easy, too – the pressure cooker does all the hard work, leaving me with a delicious, nourishing soup in a fraction of the time. And let me tell you, it tastes just as good as Grandma’s!
Why This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
The secret to this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is in the technique. By searing the chicken first, you’re able to develop a deep, rich flavor that infuses the entire dish. And by using the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function, you’re able to extract all the goodness from the chicken bones and veggies, creating a broth that’s truly out of this world.
But that’s not all – the addition of fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice at the end also helps to brighten up the flavors, making this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to anytime you need a cozy, comforting meal.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken – I prefer to use a whole chicken or a combination of chicken breasts and thighs. This gives you the best flavor and texture.
– Carrots – Diced carrots add a sweet, earthy note to the broth.
– Celery – Celery is a must-have, providing a subtle crunch and depth of flavor.
– Onion – Sautéing the onion is the first step to building that incredible broth.
– Garlic – Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch.
– Herbs – A blend of fresh thyme, parsley, and bay leaves completes the classic chicken noodle soup flavor profile.
– Egg noodles – Wide, hearty egg noodles are the perfect companion to the rich broth.
– Lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the whole dish.
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup comes together in about an hour, with just 15 minutes of active prep time. You’ll need your trusty Instant Pot, a large pot or Dutch oven, and a few basic kitchen tools. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get cooking!
1- Start by searing the chicken in the Instant Pot on the sauté function. This helps to lock in the juices and develop a rich, caramelized flavor.
2- Next, add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
3- Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to the “Soup” setting, which will cook the chicken to perfection.
4- Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure and remove the chicken. Shred or dice the meat, then return it to the pot.
5- Add the egg noodles and let them cook for 5-7 minutes, until they’re tender.
6- Finally, stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
– For the best flavor, use a whole chicken or a combination of chicken parts. The bones and skin add so much richness to the broth.
– Don’t be tempted to skip the searing step – it’s crucial for building that deep, complex flavor.
– Be sure to use fresh herbs for maximum aroma and taste. Dried herbs won’t give you the same results.
– Keep a close eye on the noodles to prevent them from overcooking and getting mushy.
– If you find the broth is a bit thin, you can thicken it up by making a quick roux on the stovetop and stirring it in.
Serving and Storing Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with all sorts of sides and accompaniments. A crusty loaf of bread or a simple green salad makes for a perfect meal. For a heartier option, you can’t go wrong with a grilled cheese sandwich or some homemade biscuits.
And don’t forget the beverages! A cold, refreshing glass of iced tea or a mug of hot apple cider are both excellent choices to round out your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup feast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a dish that holds up incredibly well. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For make-ahead convenience, you can even freeze Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While the classic version is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to mix up your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Try adding diced potatoes or wild rice for extra heartiness, or swap in different veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
You can also experiment with different flavor profiles by using Italian seasoning or Southwest-inspired spices. And for a fun twist, try swapping the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or even wonton wrappers.
Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
Looking to make your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup a little lighter? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit a variety of dietary needs.
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta or skip the noodles altogether and serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. To make it low-carb, you can omit the noodles and add extra veggies like mushrooms or kale.
And for a vegan or vegetarian take, swap the chicken for chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts work great in this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts tend to cook more quickly than a whole bird.
Q: How long should I cook the noodles in the Instant Pot?
A: I recommend cooking the egg noodles for 5-7 minutes in the Instant Pot, once the chicken is cooked and removed. This will ensure they’re tender without getting mushy.
Q: Can I make this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is perfect for making in advance! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store the noodles separately if you plan to reheat and serve later.
Q: How many servings does this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield about 6-8 servings of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, depending on portion size. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Q: What should I do if the broth is too thin?
A: If you find the broth in your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a bit thin for your liking, you can easily thicken it up. Simply make a quick roux on the stovetop by melting butter and whisking in an equal amount of flour. Then, slowly stir the roux into the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Enjoy a delicious and quick Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for cozy weeknights. This simple recipe is ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups chopped carrots
– 1 cup chopped celery
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 tsp dried parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. – Place the chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the Instant Pot.
2. – Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. – Quick release the pressure, then remove the chicken and shred or dice it.
4. – Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the egg noodles.
5. – Cook for an additional 5 minutes on high pressure.
6. – Quick release the pressure again, then stir in the parsley and thyme.
7. – Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. – Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a great weeknight meal that comes together quickly. For a heartier soup, add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The soup also freezes well for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. With its rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and perfect noodles, it’s a dish that’s both nourishing and utterly delicious.
So what are you waiting for? Dust off your Instant Pot and give this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup a try. I promise, once you experience the magic of pressure-cooked chicken noodle soup, you’ll never go back to the stovetop method again. Bon appétit!
