Quick Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that comes together in no time, this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is your go-to recipe. Perfect for busy days or cozy evenings, it combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, vibrant vegetables, and tender noodles all cooked effortlessly in the Instant Pot. Enjoy a warm, comforting Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup made fast and easy—perfect for busy days and cozy meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: All ingredients come together in one pot, saving you time and cleanup.
• Flavorful and Comforting: Homemade broth and perfectly cooked chicken create a rich, satisfying taste.
• Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a wholesome meal for the whole family.
• Adaptable to Your Pantry: Easily swap ingredients or add extras based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Season: Cozy enough for cold days, light enough for warmer months.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe uses simple, essential ingredients that come together seamlessly to create a delicious blend of flavors, textures, and colors. From fresh vegetables to tender chicken and classic herbs, each component plays a vital role in this heartwarming dish.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for easy shredding and a tender bite.
• Carrots and celery: These classic veggies add crunch, sweetness, and depth to the broth.
• Onion and garlic: Fresh aromatics that build the flavorful base of the soup.
• Chicken broth: Use low-sodium or homemade broth to control salt and boost richness.
• Egg noodles: Quick-cooking pasta adds the perfect tender texture to every spoonful.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and thyme bring brightness and complexity to the soup.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing vegetables and adding richness without heaviness.

Variations for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re craving extra veggies, want a gluten-free twist, or prefer a creamier texture, adapting this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a breeze!

• Gluten-free option: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles.
• Extra vegetables: Add spinach, kale, mushrooms, or peas for a nutrient boost.
• Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer broth.
• Herbal twist: Use rosemary, dill, or basil to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and warm the olive oil or butter. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Chicken

Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma. Next, place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the veggies, seasoning everything lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Herbs

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables, then add fresh thyme sprigs or dried herbs of choice. Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the vent is sealed.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 8 minutes. Once the timer goes off, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Add Noodles

Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the egg noodles. Switch the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until noodles are tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t overcook noodles: Add noodles after pressure cooking to keep them perfectly tender.
• Natural pressure release is best: It helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
• Double the recipe: For meal prep or gatherings, this soup freezes beautifully.
• Adjust broth levels: Add more broth or water if you prefer a soupier texture.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Garnishes

Top your bowl with freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors effortlessly.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or garlic toast for dipping. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables complement the soup perfectly for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in a bread bowl, or add a dollop of pesto or sour cream. You can also ladle the soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well without the noodles to prevent mushiness; store broth and shredded chicken separately if possible. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding fresh noodles if needed, or microwave in intervals, stirring to heat evenly. Add extra broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but increase the pressure cooking time to 12 minutes to ensure it cooks fully and stays tender.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are traditional, cooking quickly with the soup. You can also use any short pasta like rotini or shells, but add them after pressure cooking to avoid mushiness.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese as a garnish, so it’s great for those with dairy sensitivities.

Is it necessary to sauté the vegetables first?

Sautéing enhances flavor by softening the veggies and releasing aromatics, but you can skip this step if pressed for time; the soup will still be delicious.

How can I make the broth richer?

Use homemade chicken stock or add a bouillon cube along with herbs and a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy, homemade feeling of a classic chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in an Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is perfect for feeding your family nourishing comfort food any day of the week. So grab your ingredients and start cooking—you’re just a few steps away from a bowl of warm happiness!

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