Are you ready to make a warm and comforting meal in no time? My Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is quick and easy, perfect for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a tasty bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out. I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring it’s simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will soon become your favorite!
Ingredients
To make the best Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, you need simple, fresh ingredients. Each one adds flavor and warmth to this cozy dish. Here is the complete list of ingredients you will need:
– Chicken and Vegetables
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Spices and Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Broth and Noodles
– 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 3 cups egg noodles
Using fresh ingredients helps create a rich and tasty soup. The chicken thighs give you great flavor and tenderness. The veggies add a nice crunch and sweetness. The herbs and spices bring it all together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
Sautéing Onion, Carrots, and Celery
First, set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Pour in a splash of olive oil. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook these for about 4-5 minutes until they soften. Stir often to avoid burning. This step builds a great base for your soup.
Adding Garlic for Flavor
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for one more minute. This adds a nice depth of flavor to your soup. Garlic makes everything taste wonderful, so don’t skip this step!
Cooking the Chicken
Combining Chicken Thighs with Seasoning
Now, add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the pot. Sprinkle dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper over them. Mix everything well so the chicken gets coated in those tasty spices.
Adding Chicken Broth and Bay Leaf
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Toss in the bay leaf too. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot. This action helps lift off any browned bits. These bits add rich flavor to your soup.
Pressure Cooking Process
Setting the Instant Pot
Close the lid of the Instant Pot. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Ensure the valve is in the sealing position. This step is important for proper pressure cooking.
Quick Release Tips
When the cooking time is up, carefully do a quick release. Turn the valve to the venting position. Wait until the pressure is fully released. Then, open the lid and enjoy the aroma!
Finalizing the Soup
Shredding the Chicken
Remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. This makes every spoonful hearty and filling.
Adding and Cooking Egg Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the soup now. Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Let the soup simmer for about 5-6 minutes. Stir occasionally until the noodles are tender. If the soup gets too thick, add more broth or water.
Adjusting Seasoning
Finally, taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Your soup is now ready to ladle into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely touch.
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking Noodles: Cooking egg noodles too long can ruin your soup. They become mushy and lose their nice texture. Check the noodles after just 5 minutes. If they are tender, turn off the pot. If not, give them a minute more.
– Not Sautéing Vegetables Enough: Skipping the sauté step makes the soup less flavorful. Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery for just a few minutes brings out their natural sweetness. This step is key to a great soup base.
Essential Tools for Cooking
– Best Instant Pot Models: I recommend the Instant Pot Duo or the Instant Pot Ultra. Both models have great features and are easy to use. They allow you to cook quickly and achieve perfect results.
– Kitchen Utensils for Efficiency: Use a sturdy ladle for serving soup. A good set of measuring cups and spoons helps ensure accuracy. A sharp knife makes cutting veggies a breeze.
Flavor Enhancers
– Additional Herbs to Boost Flavor: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for more depth. You can also sprinkle in a bit of dill for a bright twist. Each herb adds its unique flair to your soup.
– Suggested Garnishes: Fresh parsley adds color and flavor. You can also top your soup with a squeeze of lemon. This adds a nice zing that brightens the dish.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make this soup even healthier with a few simple swaps. First, consider using turkey instead of chicken. Turkey has less fat and many find the taste just as good. It works really well in this recipe.
Next, try whole wheat noodles. These noodles have more fiber and nutrients than regular ones. They can add a nice, nutty flavor to your soup. Plus, they keep you full longer.
Flavor Swaps
For a fresh twist, you can add lemon juice. Just a squeeze can brighten up the whole dish. It adds a zing that makes the soup pop.
Another great idea is to add spinach or kale. These greens bring in extra vitamins. Toss them in just before you serve. They wilt nicely and add a lovely color.
Seasonal Add-Ins
You can also change this soup with seasonal veggies. In spring, try adding peas or asparagus. They give a fresh crunch and work well with the flavors.
In winter, consider root vegetables like parsnips or turnips. They add a hearty feel and pair nicely with the broth. These swaps keep your soup fun and exciting all year long.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup fresh, store it properly. First, let the soup cool down before placing it in the fridge. Use airtight containers for the best results. This helps keep the soup from absorbing other smells.
– Best Practices for Refrigeration: Store the soup in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the containers with the date. This way, you know when to use them.
– Freezing Tips for Longer Storage: If you want to keep the soup longer, freezing is great. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. You can freeze it for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, reheating is key. You want to keep the flavors fresh and the texture nice.
– Best Methods for Maintaining Texture: The microwave works well for quick reheating. Place the soup in a bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. You can also use a pot on the stove. Just heat it over low heat, stirring often.
– How to Prevent Noodles from Getting Soggy: If you’re worried about soggy noodles, add them fresh when reheating. You can cook a small batch of noodles separately. Then, mix them into the soup right before serving. This keeps them firm and tasty!
By following these tips, you can enjoy your delicious soup even days after cooking.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook chicken in an Instant Pot?
Cooking chicken in an Instant Pot is quick! For boneless chicken thighs, it takes about 10 minutes on high pressure. If you use bone-in thighs, it may take 12-15 minutes. For chicken breasts, 8-10 minutes will do. Always remember to let the pressure release naturally for the best results.
Can you use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked. The Instant Pot will still work its magic, but you need to adjust the time.
How to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. You can find many options like rice noodles or quinoa pasta. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup. This way, everyone can enjoy a cozy bowl of soup!
This blog shared how to make a tasty chicken soup in an Instant Pot. We covered ingredients, step-by-step directions, and common mistakes to avoid. Remember to sauté your veggies and not overcook the noodles.
You can also try fun variations like swapping chicken for turkey or adding spinach. Store your soup properly for delicious leftovers. With these tips, you’ll create a meal that warms the heart. Enjoy your cooking journey. You have everything you need to make a great soup!
