There’s nothing quite like a big, steaming bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly winter day. It’s the ultimate comfort food that just warms you up from the inside out. I can still remember the first time I made Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup – it was right after my kids had come down with a nasty cold, and I was desperate to find something nourishing and soothing to help them feel better.
I’d always loved my grandma’s classic chicken noodle soup recipe, but I just didn’t have the time or energy to babysit a pot on the stove for hours. That’s when I decided to give the Instant Pot a try, and let me tell you, it was a total game-changer. In just about an hour, I had the most flavorful, comforting Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup ready to serve. The kids slurped it down eagerly, and within a day or two, they were feeling so much better. From that moment on, Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup became a staple in our household.
Why This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
What makes this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe so special is the way it harnesses the power of the Instant Pot to extract maximum flavor from the ingredients. By pressure cooking the chicken, vegetables, and broth together, you end up with a soup that’s incredibly rich, fragrant, and comforting. Plus, the Instant Pot makes the whole process so hands-off and easy – no more hovering over a pot on the stove for hours. This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken: I like to use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs for the best texture and flavor.
– Vegetables: Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic provide the aromatic base for this soup.
– Broth: Homemade chicken broth is ideal, but you can also use a good-quality store-bought version.
– Egg noodles: Wide, hearty egg noodles are the perfect pairing for the rich Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup.
– Herbs and seasonings: A blend of dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaves gives this soup its signature flavor.
Step-by-Step Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a breeze! In just about an hour, you can have a big batch of this comforting soup ready to serve. All you need is your trusty Instant Pot and a few simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
1- Start by adding the chicken, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves to your Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set the pot to pressure cook on high for 20 minutes.
2- Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method. Remove the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces right in the pot.
3- Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and bring the soup to a simmer. Add the egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
4- Keep an eye on the soup, as the noodles will continue to absorb the broth as it simmers. You’re looking for a nice, thick consistency with plenty of tender chicken and noodles.
5- Once the noodles are cooked through, stir in a big handful of fresh parsley to brighten up the flavors.
6- Ladle the piping hot Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
– For an even richer, more flavorful broth, use a combination of chicken breasts and thighs.
– Don’t be afraid to experiment with different noodle shapes or types – egg noodles, wide egg noodles, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini all work great.
– If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts and thighs.
– Be careful not to overcook the noodles – they’ll continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits.
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 a variety of sides and accompaniments. For a light and refreshing contrast, try serving it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for dipping. It also makes a great starter course for a cozy winter dinner, or you can enjoy a big bowl all on its own for a satisfying meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in airtight containers or resealable bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup also makes a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire recipe in advance, then portion it out into individual servings and freeze. That way, you’ll always have a comforting, homemade meal ready to go when you need it.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While the classic version of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping out the egg noodles for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles. You can also mix up the veggies, using things like zucchini, spinach, or even diced potatoes. For a heartier meal, stir in some cooked rice or quinoa towards the end. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature flavor profile.
Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe more diet-friendly, there are a few simple swaps you can try. For a low-carb version, skip the noodles and use spiralized zucchini or riced cauliflower instead. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta or noodles. And for a vegan or vegetarian spin, swap the chicken for extra veggies and use a vegetable broth as the base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can absolutely use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. Just increase the pressure cooking time by 5-10 minutes to account for the frozen chicken.
Q: How long does Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup take to make?
A: This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe comes together in about an hour total. The pressure cooking time is 20 minutes, plus an additional 8-10 minutes for the noodles to cook through.
Q: Can I make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire recipe in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: How many servings does this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe make?
A: This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the size of your bowls. It’s a very hearty and satisfying soup, so a single serving is usually quite filling.
Conclusion
There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about a big bowl of homemade Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. The way the rich, flavorful broth mingles with the tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles is truly unbeatable. And with the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you can have this cozy classic on the table in no time at all.
I hope this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe becomes a new go-to in your household, just like it has in mine. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day, soothe a cold or flu, or simply enjoy a delicious, nourishing meal, this soup is sure to hit the spot. So what are you waiting for? Grab your Instant Pot and get cooking!
