Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

An easy recipe for Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is ideal for cold winter days! This comforting meal warms your soul and can be served alongside bread, rolls, or crackers for a quick and satisfying experience. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or just when you crave something hearty. With its rich flavors and delightful aroma, this dish stands out as a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the taste of this classic soup.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from chicken and vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
• Easy Clean-Up: With everything cooked in one pot, clean-up is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker saves time while delivering tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Essential for efficiently chopping vegetables to the desired size.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensure accurate seasoning for optimal flavor in your soup.

Ingredients

An easy recipe for Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is 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 to the pot. Once the pot is hot:
1. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook while stirring occasionally until the veggies start to soften (about 3 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic. Press Cancel to turn off the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

Add the dried oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and broth to the pot:
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Nestle the chicken breasts into the broth mixture.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid securely:
1. Turn the valve to sealing position.
2. Pressure cook on high pressure for 7 minutes.
3. Note that it will take about 20 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure

Once cooking ends:
1. Allow a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes.
2. Carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

When you hear the pin drop down:
1. Open the lid carefully.
2. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
3. Transfer chicken onto a plate or cutting board; let it rest briefly before shredding it with two forks.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Press Cancel on your Instant Pot:
1. Then press Sauté again.
2. Add egg noodles to the pot; let them simmer in broth for about 5 minutes until just tender.
3. Turn off the Instant Pot after noodles are cooked.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Soup

Stir shredded chicken back into the soup mixture:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley if desired!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple and can be customized to suit individual tastes. This comforting soup pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavor and texture.

Complement with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
• Thyme Leaves: Adding a few fresh thyme leaves can elevate the herbaceous notes in the soup.

Pair with Bread Items

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up the delicious broth.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for a comforting addition to your meal.

Add Crunch with Crackers

• Saltine Crackers: Crumble some saltines on top for added crunch and saltiness.
• Whole Grain Crackers: These provide an earthy flavor that complements the soup nicely.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup requires a few key techniques and ingredients. With these tips, you can enhance both the flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavor Base: Sauté your vegetables until they are just tender; this builds a rich base of flavor.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich taste.
• Proper Shredding Technique: Let the chicken rest before shredding; this allows it to retain moisture and tenderness.
• Adjust Seasoning Accordingly: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Add noodles towards the end of cooking to keep them from becoming mushy.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream can add layers of flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

To complement your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, consider serving it with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds variety and enhances the overall meal experience.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides freshness that balances the richness of the soup.
2. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter and melted cheese offers a delightful crunch alongside the warmth of soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition, making your meal more wholesome.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and veggies create a hearty side that complements the soup well.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and contrast, making it an excellent palate cleanser between bites.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf can serve as a filling side that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Neglecting to sauté the vegetables first can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always start by cooking your onions, carrots, and celery to enhance the overall taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent proper pressure cooking. Stick to the recipe amounts for best results.
• Not Using Low-Sodium Broth: Regular broth can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the flavor better.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Pressure cooking times are crucial. Make sure to follow recommended times closely for tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles.
• Forgetting to Shred Chicken: Leaving whole pieces of chicken in the soup makes it less enjoyable. Always shred the chicken before serving for better texture and flavor distribution.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven at 350°F (175°C) in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a quick and easy comfort food made with tender chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles all cooked in one pot.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences.

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

The total time is about 55 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.

Is this recipe healthy?

This soup is nutritious, packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, making it a wholesome meal choice.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is not only warming on cold days but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a comforting staple in your kitchen!

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