Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially when the temperatures drop. This easy recipe delivers a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it stands out as a go-to dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour using your Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles, this soup is filling enough to be a complete meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store portions in the fridge or freezer for easy lunches or dinners later.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this comforting soup, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time while infusing flavors beautifully.
• Chopping Board & Knife: A good chopping board and sharp knife ensure safe and efficient prep work for your vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons: Precise measurements guarantee consistent flavor in every batch of soup.

Ingredients

An easy recipe for Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, perfect for cold winter days! Serve it with bread, rolls or crackers for a quick, easy and comforting meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
– 4 medium carrots (peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces)
– 4 ribs celery (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 8 cups low sodium chicken broth (can use 4 cups broth and 4 cups water if desired)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 ounces egg noodles
– chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot and add the olive oil to the pot. Once hot:
* Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
* Cook while stirring occasionally until veggies start to soften, about 3 minutes.
* Stir in the minced garlic.
* Press Cancel to turn off the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth

Add the following ingredients to the pot:
* Dried oregano
* Dried thyme
* Bay leaf
* Salt
* Black pepper
* Low sodium chicken broth

Stir well. Next, nestle the chicken breasts into the broth mixture.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and turn the valve to sealing position. Set it to pressure cook on high for 7 minutes. Note that it may take around 20 minutes for the pot to reach pressure before cooking begins.

Step 4: Release Pressure

Once cooking ends:
* Allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
* Carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to venting position using a long spoon handle.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

After the pin drops down:
* Open the lid of your Instant Pot.
* Remove and discard the bay leaf.
* Transfer chicken onto a clean plate or cutting board; let rest before shredding.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Press Cancel on your Instant Pot. Then:
* Select Saute again.
* Add egg noodles to the pot and simmer for about 5 minutes until just tender.
Turn off the Instant Pot after noodles are cooked.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Stir shredded chicken back into soup mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day or as a quick family meal, there are several ways to elevate this dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – Add a few fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty French Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – The richness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the soup.

Served with Crackers

• Saltine Crackers – Classic saltines add a delightful crunch to every spoonful.
• Herbed Crackers – Choose herbed crackers for an extra flavor boost.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar adds creaminess and richness to the bowl.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated parmesan brings a nutty flavor that complements the soup well.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, consider these simple tips:

• Bold Flavors – Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still packing in flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible for better taste and nutrition.
• Chicken Options – For added variety, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor.
• Noodle Cooking Time – Keep an eye on cooking times for the noodles; they can overcook quickly in the broth.
• Seasoning Adjustments – Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Storage Tips – Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some delicious options:

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine topped with Caesar dressing and croutons complements the soup nicely.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Melted cheese between crispy bread makes for a hearty pair.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables provide a filling side.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the meal’s nutritional value.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, small mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Many people overlook the sauté function. This step enhances the flavor of the vegetables, giving your soup a richer taste.
• Not Adding Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to a dry soup. Make sure to use enough chicken broth or water; aim for at least 8 cups for a balanced consistency.
• Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it may become dry and tough. Stick to the recommended 7 minutes on high pressure for perfectly tender chicken.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tastes vary, and your soup may need more salt or spices after cooking. Always taste and adjust before serving for optimal flavor.
• Forgetting to Remove the Bay Leaf: Leaving the bay leaf in while serving can lead to an unpleasant bite. Remember to remove it before you shred the chicken and serve.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in airtight containers.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until hot throughout, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup special?

This Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors from fresh vegetables and herbs.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn or switch up the noodles based on your preference.

How do I ensure my noodles are cooked perfectly?

Add them during the final stages of cooking and check them after about five minutes of simmering.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well both in the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Its versatility allows for countless customization options so you can make it your own. Try this recipe today and enjoy a deliciously hearty meal any day of the week!