This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. The Instant Pot locks in the flavors and nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also a nourishing meal that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup for its incredible flavor and convenience. The Instant Pot allows you to infuse the chicken with aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a soup that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, this recipe is super easy to whip up, requiring minimal prep time and just a few simple steps. Whether you’re following a busy lifestyle, feeding a family, or looking for a wholesome, low-calorie meal, this recipe fits the bill perfectly, making it one of the best go-to meals for any home cook!
Tips and Tricks
- For the best flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of boneless chicken. The bones and skin add depth to the broth.
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in the pot before adding the other ingredients to build a solid flavor foundation.
- If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. Just shred it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make sure to use fresh herbs, as they elevate the flavor profile of the soup. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount since they are more concentrated.
- Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more broth or water if it’s too thick for your liking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken is a common mistake; ensure to follow the cooking time closely to keep it juicy and tender.
- Skipping the sauté step can lead to a less flavorful broth. Always take the time to sauté your vegetables first.
- Not seasoning properly can lead to a bland soup. Taste the broth before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Using the wrong type of noodles can result in a mushy texture. Opt for egg noodles or a similar quick-cooking variety for the best results.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components of this soup ahead of time. Chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also cook the chicken and store it in the fridge before shredding it when ready to make the soup. The soup itself can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Recipe Variations
- For a creamy version, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Swap out the chicken for turkey for a delightful post-holiday twist.
- Make it a Thai-inspired soup by adding coconut milk and lime juice, along with fresh ginger and cilantro.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How to Serve
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls topped with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color. Pair it with warm crusty bread or buttery rolls to soak up the delicious broth. For an added crunch, consider garnishing with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like.
Pairing Suggestions
A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a warm cup of herbal tea or ginger ale can cleanse the palate. For side dishes, consider serving a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted vegetables. For dessert, a slice of lemon cake or a bowl of fresh berries would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a little extra broth if needed.
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Airtight containers for storage
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth. For a dairy-free option, simply omit any cream or cheese. If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of traditional egg noodles. Always check labels for allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add fresh peas and asparagus to brighten up the soup. Summer is perfect for tossing in diced zucchini or fresh corn. In fall and winter, consider adding root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish. Adjust herbs according to the season; fresh herbs are always best!
Cost Breakdown
This recipe is budget-friendly, costing approximately $10 to prepare, which serves about 6 people. That’s roughly $1.67 per serving! To save even more, consider buying chicken thighs in bulk or using leftover chicken from another meal.
Kitchen Hacks
- To quickly chop onions without tears, chill them in the refrigerator for a while before cutting.
- Use a food processor to finely chop vegetables in seconds, saving you time on prep.
- If you need to peel garlic quickly, crush the cloves with the flat side of a knife, and the skin will come off easily.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the chicken? Yes, you can use turkey, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- How long does it take to cook? The Instant Pot takes about 10 minutes to come to pressure, plus 10 minutes of cook time.
- What if I don’t have egg noodles? You can use any quick-cooking pasta or even rice as an alternative.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. The Instant Pot locks in the flavors and nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also a nourishing meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it.
- Add chicken thighs, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch to a quick release.
- Remove the chicken thighs and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and skin.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the egg noodles. Set to manual high pressure for another 5 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 289Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 117mgSodium 1128mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 22g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to impress family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment it brings, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
