There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s made with minimal effort. That’s where the magic of the Instant Pot comes in, allowing you to make this beloved dish in a fraction of the time it would traditionally take. Whether you’re battling a cold, craving something cozy, or simply in the mood for a hearty, homemade meal, this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Instant Pot Recipe has got you covered.
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is while still delivering the rich flavors and textures we associate with classic chicken noodle soup. The Instant Pot locks in all those flavors quickly, and the process couldn’t be easier. It’s the kind of recipe that you can rely on whenever you need a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing-plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that cuts down on cleanup.
Let’s get into the details, shall we?
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Instant Pot Recipe
The Quick Rundown
This recipe combines all the essentials of a classic chicken noodle soup: tender chicken, savory broth, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles. And with the help of the Instant Pot, you can have it all ready in under 30 minutes! Let’s break it down step by step.
Ingredients Needed
Before you dive into the cooking, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. Thankfully, this recipe uses common pantry and fridge staples, so you likely already have most of these on hand:
- Chicken Breasts (or thighs) – Boneless, skinless is preferred for ease, but bone-in works too if you prefer extra flavor.
- Carrots – Slice or chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Celery – The classic base vegetable that adds flavor and crunch.
- Onion – Yellow or white onions work best for this, bringing sweetness to the broth.
- Garlic – A couple of cloves, minced. Garlic is the secret ingredient that elevates the flavor.
- Chicken Broth – Use low-sodium broth for better control over the salt level.
- Egg Noodles – The traditional choice for chicken noodle soup, absorbing all the delicious broth.
- Olive Oil or Butter – To sauté the veggies and create a flavorful base.
- Dried Thyme – The perfect herb to complement the chicken and broth.
- Bay Leaves – A classic soup addition that adds depth of flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste, of course! You can also add more seasoning if you like your soup extra zesty.
Cooking Instructions
This is where the magic happens. The Instant Pot will handle most of the work, but there are a few key steps to ensure your soup comes out perfect:
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Turn on your Instant Pot and set it to the ’Sauté’ mode. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pot.
- Once the oil heats up, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not burn, as it can turn bitter.
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Add The Chicken & Broth
- Next, season your chicken with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or any other herbs you enjoy).
- Pour in the chicken broth and drop in the chicken breasts or thighs. Add the bay leaves and stir everything together to combine.
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Pressure Cook
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
- Set your Instant Pot to ’Pressure Cook’ (high pressure) for 10 minutes if using boneless chicken, or 12 minutes if using bone-in.
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes before doing a quick release for the remaining pressure.
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Shred The Chicken & Add Noodles
- Open the lid carefully. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add the egg noodles to the broth, stir them in, and close the lid again. Set the Instant Pot to ’Pressure Cook’ for an additional 4-5 minutes (depending on the thickness of your noodles).
- Once the noodles are cooked, perform a quick release and remove the lid.
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Taste And Adjust
- Give the soup a good stir, and taste it for seasoning. If it needs more salt, pepper, or herbs, go ahead and adjust to your liking.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup serves a specific purpose in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s take a moment to explore the roles they play:
- Chicken Breasts/Thighs: Chicken adds protein and creates a deliciously tender, shreddable texture that takes on the flavor of the broth beautifully. Breasts are leaner, but thighs give a richer taste.
- Carrots and Celery: These two vegetables form the aromatic base of your soup. They add natural sweetness and earthiness while also contributing to the texture of the soup.
- Garlic & Onion: These are the flavor-building essentials, creating a savory, aromatic foundation for the broth.
- Egg Noodles: Noodles are the heart of the soup, absorbing all the flavors of the broth. Their soft texture complements the tender chicken.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid gold of your soup, broth brings the flavors together and helps create a cozy, rich texture.
Expert Tips
To ensure your chicken noodle soup turns out flawless, here are a few tips from the pros:
- Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: Instant Pot noodles cook quickly, so be sure to follow the recipe’s suggested cooking times. Overcooked noodles can turn mushy and break apart in the broth.
- Use Bone-in Chicken for More Flavor: If you have the time, bone-in chicken will add a more intense flavor to the broth, making it even richer.
- Sauté Your Veggies First: Sautéing the vegetables before pressure cooking helps to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Natural Pressure Release: Letting the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for a few minutes ensures that the chicken stays tender and the flavors develop properly.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of chicken noodle soup is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after pressure cooking for a richer, creamier version.
- Add More Vegetables: Toss in peas, corn, or even spinach to make the soup heartier and more colorful.
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even a spoonful of sriracha to the broth.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles to make it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Herb Variations: Try fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or dill to give your soup a unique flavor twist.
Final Words
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a game-changer when it comes to convenience and flavor. With minimal prep, just a few ingredients, and under 30 minutes of cook time, you can create a comforting, satisfying soup that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe has you covered.