If you’re looking for a heartwarming meal that brings comfort and joy, you’ve come to the right place! This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is my go-to recipe for those chilly evenings when all I want is a bowl of something warm and cozy. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can gather around the table. With real ingredients and that homemade taste, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you’re cooking for just yourself or a crowd, this soup is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—just make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love slurping up the noodles and tender chicken. It’s a sure hit at the dinner table!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal.
- Delicious Flavor: Packed with wholesome ingredients and seasonings, every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. You might already have many of these staples in your kitchen!
For the Soup
- 1 pound chicken drumsticks (or boneless thighs)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and ground pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 medium sweet onion (or 2 small, diced)
- 3 medium carrots (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 1 parsnip (finely diced)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 12 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces egg noodles
- Freshly chopped parsley (to garnish)
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken thighs instead of drumsticks for a different twist.
- Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or green beans for added nutrition and color.
- Change the noodles: Try whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for alternatives.
- Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme for an extra kick of flavor.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Season and Sauté
Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks and breasts with Kosher salt and ground pepper on both sides. Turn on the SAUTE function of your Instant Pot, add olive oil, and sauté the diced onion, carrots, celery, parsnip, and minced garlic for about 5-6 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your soup by enhancing the flavors of the vegetables.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Next, add your diced potatoes along with the seasoned chicken and Italian seasoning into the pot. Pour in that lovely low-sodium chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine. Securing the lid is crucial here—set your valve to SEAL before cooking on either MANUAL or SOUP setting for 15 minutes. This will lock in all those wonderful flavors!
Step 3: Quick Release & Noodles
Once cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of steam before removing the chicken from the pot. Press SAUTE again and add in those egg noodles. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re tender. While they cook, shred any meat from the bones if using drumsticks. Discard any bones you find—your soup will be so much easier to enjoy without them!
Step 4: Combine & Garnish
Return all that shredded chicken back into your pot, stirring well to mix everything together beautifully. Finally, garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot. It adds such a lovely pop of color!
And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup that’s ready to warm your soul!
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Making this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple, but a few tips can elevate your soup to the next level!
Use quality chicken broth: A great broth enhances the flavor of your soup significantly. Opt for low-sodium to control the salt levels while still enjoying a rich taste.
Don’t skip the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables before pressure cooking brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor of your soup.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like green beans or peas. This not only adds variety but also boosts the nutritional value of your dish.
Let it rest: After cooking, allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Adjust seasoning after cooking: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ingredients can vary in flavor, so this final touch ensures it’s just right!
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving this comforting dish is just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to make every bowl special.
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making each bowl pop with vibrant flavor.
- Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast that enhances the warmth of the soup.
Side Dishes
- Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The texture complements the soup perfectly and makes for a hearty meal.
- Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds a crunchy element to your meal.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches: Pairing this soup with grilled cheese creates a nostalgic comfort food experience that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring an additional layer of nutrients and flavors, providing a colorful side that looks just as good as it tastes.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeks while offering a comforting bowl of goodness whenever you need it. You can easily store leftovers or freeze portions for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely, heating in intervals until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!
Can I make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup with different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses drumsticks and boneless chicken breasts, you can substitute other cuts like thighs or even rotisserie chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Is there a vegetarian version of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian twist.
Can I add more vegetables to my Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as spinach, kale, or peas towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy to any chilly evening. Whether you’re looking to meal prep or simply enjoy a delicious homemade dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!
Comfort Food
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is not only a comforting classic, but it’s also incredibly quick and easy to make. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in just 35 minutes! The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth makes this soup a family favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner on a chilly night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound chicken drumsticks (or boneless thighs)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and ground pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 medium sweet onion (or 2 small, diced)
- 3 medium carrots (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 1 parsnip (finely diced)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 12 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces egg noodles
- Freshly chopped parsley (to garnish)
Variations
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add extra vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn for additional nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or dill to change the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free egg noodles or substitute with rice for a gluten-free version.
How to Make
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, parsnip, and garlic in olive oil using the SAUTE function.
- Add diced potatoes, seasoned chicken, and Italian seasoning. Pour in chicken broth and stir.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to SEAL, and cook on MANUAL/SOUP for 15 minutes. Quick-release steam when done.
- Remove chicken, add egg noodles, and cook on SAUTE for 4-5 minutes. Shred chicken and return to the pot.
- Stir everything together and garnish with parsley before serving.
Pro Tips
- For even more flavor, consider browning the chicken before adding the vegetables.
- Make sure to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot before adding the noodles.
How to Serve
Serve this cozy soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prep the veggies and season the chicken in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the noodles and add them fresh when reheating.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can make this soup on the stove by simmering the ingredients in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a true lifesaver for busy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy every warm, delicious bowl!
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
If you’re seeking a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy, look no further than this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and wholesome egg noodles in a flavorful broth. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this cozy meal in just 35 minutes! It’s a family favorite that’s not only delicious but also great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken drumsticks (or boneless thighs)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium sweet onion (diced)
- 3 medium carrots (diced)
- 3 stalks celery (diced)
- 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 12 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 ounces egg noodles
- Freshly chopped parsley (to garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Use the SAUTE function on your Instant Pot to heat olive oil. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Add diced potatoes, seasoned chicken, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to SEAL. Cook on MANUAL/SOUP setting for 15 minutes. Quick-release steam when cooking is complete.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, add egg noodles, and cook on SAUTE for an additional 4-5 minutes until tender. Shred any meat from the bones if using drumsticks.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot, stir to combine, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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