Did you know that homemade soup can be up to 60% more nutritious than store-bought versions? With the Instant Pot, you can whip up a delicious chicken soup in under an hour, making it a go-to option for busy evenings. This recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a comforting meal. Curious about how to elevate your soup experience? Let's explore the steps to create this delightful dish.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and flavorful base in your soup.
- Sauté diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery in olive oil for 5 minutes for added depth of flavor.
- Add chicken broth, herbs, salt, and pepper before sealing the Instant Pot to cook under high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for perfectly cooked chicken soup.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon, and serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
How To Make It – Recipe
Crafting a soothing chicken broth in an Instant Pot is a cinch, ideal for those hectic weeknights or brisk days when you desire something cozy and substantial. This recipe merges tender chicken, fresh produce, and fragrant herbs to create a delectably fulfilling meal that you and your family will adore. The comforting chicken soup is a timeless favorite that warms both the heart and the soul.
The Instant Pot not only accelerates the cooking process but also seals in flavors, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth that's sure to delight.
To begin, gather your ingredients and set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode to build a base of taste. By gently browning the produce and chicken first, you'll elevate the overall flavor of your soup.
Once everything is combined and pressure cooked to perfection, you'll have a nourishing dish that's ready to serve in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking instructions: Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the produce are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
Open the lid, shred the chicken with two forks, return it to the pot, and stir in the frozen peas. Let the broth sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra tips: For an extra layer of taste, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a tablespoon of soy sauce just before serving.
You can also customize your broth by adding other produce like potatoes or green beans, or by using leftover rotisserie chicken for even faster preparation.
If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry at the end to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy your warm bowl of chicken broth!
Substitution Suggestions
If you're looking to tweak the Instant Pot chicken soup recipe to better suit your tastes or dietary needs, there are plenty of substitution options to contemplate.
For herb alternatives, consider using thyme or rosemary instead of the traditional parsley; these add a delightful twist.
If you're not a fan of certain vegetables, veggie swaps can easily enhance your soup. Try adding sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a bit of sweetness, or toss in kale instead of spinach for added nutrients.
Additionally, incorporating nourishing ingredients can elevate the health benefits of your soup, making it not just comforting but also nutritious.
These adjustments can transform your dish while still keeping it comforting and delicious. Enjoy experimenting!
Serving Suggestions
While savoring your warm bowl of Instant Pot chicken soup, consider elevating the experience with thoughtful serving suggestions.
To enhance the flavors, explore garnish options like fresh parsley, a sprinkle of thyme, or a squeeze of lemon for a zesty kick.
Serve your soup alongside crusty bread or buttery rolls to soak up every delicious drop. A side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette can add a revitalizing touch.
For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled cheese or a savory quiche.
Additionally, Instant Pot chicken and rice soup is a comforting variant that can be made for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
These thoughtful additions will surely elevate your soup experience to new heights!
Make-Ahead and Storage
Enjoying your Instant Pot chicken soup is just the beginning; preparing it ahead of time can make mealtime even easier.
When meal prepping, consider making a big batch and using freezing options to store individual portions. Once cooled, pour the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you leave space for expansion.
It's a convenient way to have a comforting meal on hand for busy nights. For ideal flavor, consume your frozen soup within three months. Additionally, you can enhance your soup with deliciously simple toppings like avocado and cilantro for extra flavor.
Simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and you'll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time. Enjoy the simplicity of planning ahead!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing and reheating leftovers from your Instant Pot chicken soup is a straightforward process that assures you can savor every last drop of flavor.
For ideal leftover storage, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that can easily be made in the Instant Pot.
When you're ready to enjoy, choose your reheating methods: you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Just confirm it's heated through before serving, and enjoy that delicious taste again!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
After savoring your delicious Instant Pot chicken soup, you might be curious about its nutritional benefits. Each serving typically boasts around 250 calories, making it a hearty yet light option.
Packed with protein sources like chicken and legumes, this soup offers about 20 grams of protein per serving, fueling your body and keeping you satisfied.
Additionally, you'll find plenty of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables, enhancing both flavor and health. This soup can also be tailored to be a low carb option, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
With low fat content and high fiber, this chicken soup is a nutritious choice that supports your wellness goals without sacrificing taste. Enjoy every nourishing spoonful!
Final Thoughts
While savoring a warm bowl of Instant Pot chicken soup, you might find yourself reflecting on how this comforting dish fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle.
It's not just a delicious comfort food; it's also a gateway to healthy meals. Packed with nutrients, this soup offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, ensuring you feel satisfied without the guilt. Additionally, chicken noodle soup has been known for its soothing properties, especially during colder months or when you're feeling under the weather.
Plus, the Instant Pot makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to whip up a nourishing dinner in no time.
Embrace this recipe as a staple in your kitchen, and enjoy the warmth and health benefits it brings to your table.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just remember to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. This guarantees your chicken cooks thoroughly, giving you that tender, juicy texture you're aiming for in your dish.
How Long Does It Take to Cook in the Instant Pot?
Cooking in the Instant Pot is like a dance; it flows smoothly. Typically, you'll set it for about 15 minutes on high pressure, adjusting pressure settings as needed to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time.
What Type of Chicken Works Best for Soup?
When making soup, whole chickens provide rich flavor and tender meat, while chicken thighs deliver a juicy, succulent texture. You'll find both options elevate your soup, creating a comforting, satisfying dish everyone will love.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
If you're wondering about gluten-free options, don't fret! You can make delightful ingredient substitutions, like using gluten-free noodles or rice. Always double-check labels to verify your soup stays scrumptious and safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Can I Add Noodles or Rice to the Soup?
You can definitely add noodles or rice to the soup! Consider using egg noodles for a comforting texture or brown rice for heartiness. Both options enhance the dish, making it even more satisfying and delicious.
