Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – A Quick and Cozy Classic

You can whip up a hearty chicken noodle soup in your Instant Pot, perfect for a cozy evening. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery right in the pot. Add bone-in chicken and low-sodium broth for a flavorful base. In just 10 minutes of high pressure cooking, plus a natural release, your soup is almost ready. Stir in fresh lemon juice and herbs like thyme or parsley for a bright finish. This meal is nutritious with protein from chicken and energy from egg noodles. To discover more variations and tips, there's plenty more to explore.

Key Soup Components

Essential to any chicken noodle soup are the core ingredients that create its comforting flavor and hearty texture. When you're preparing your soup, focus on these fundamental components.

First, you'll need chicken, ideally bone-in for a richer broth.

Second, use egg noodles, which maintain their shape and soak up the savory goodness.

Third, don't forget the classic mirepoix: a mix of onions, carrots, and celery that forms the soup's aromatic base.

Finally, incorporate a flavorful broth, preferably homemade or low-sodium, to allow the other ingredients to shine.

Here's a quick checklist:

1. Chicken – Bone-in for depth.
2. Egg Noodles – Holds texture.
3. Mirepoix – Onions, carrots, celery.
4. Broth – Homemade or low-sodium.

These essentials guarantee a delicious bowl every time.

Fresh Herbs for Flavor Boost

To boost your chicken noodle soup's flavor, you'll want to pick the right herbs like thyme, parsley, and dill.

Add them at the right moment to let their flavors infuse fully.

Remember to store any leftover fresh herbs properly to keep them vibrant and ready for your next cooking adventure.

Choosing the Right Herbs

Herbs play an essential role in transforming your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup from simple to sensational. Choosing the right herbs can elevate your dish, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Start with classics like parsley, thyme, and dill. Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery note, while thyme offers a subtle earthiness that complements chicken perfectly. Dill, with its delicate, tangy flavor, adds a rejuvenating twist to the soup.

Don't hesitate to experiment. Basil introduces a sweet, aromatic layer, and cilantro brings a bright, citrusy zing.

Maximizing Flavor Infusion

One of the best ways to maximize flavor infusion in your chicken noodle soup is by using fresh herbs. They add a vibrant taste that dried herbs just can't match.

Start with classics like parsley, thyme, and dill. Chop them finely to release essential oils, enhancing every spoonful of your soup.

Add herbs at the right time to get the most flavor—stir them in towards the end of cooking. This preserves their fresh aroma and taste, preventing them from turning bitter.

If you're feeling adventurous, try basil or cilantro for a unique twist.

Storing Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs' vibrant flavors can elevate your chicken noodle soup, but proper storage is key to maintaining their potency.

When you bring herbs home, don't just toss them in the fridge. Instead, treat them like fresh flowers. Trim the ends and place them in a glass with a bit of water, covering the tops loosely with a plastic bag.

For heartier herbs like rosemary and thyme, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in a resealable bag. Change the water every couple of days and keep them in the refrigerator, away from direct cold drafts.

This method keeps herbs fresh longer, ensuring a flavorful punch in every spoonful of your soup. Don't let wilted herbs ruin your culinary masterpiece!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
• Action: Gather and prepare all the ingredients.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: 2 cups of chopped carrots, 2 cups of chopped celery, 1 chopped onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts, 8 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, salt and pepper to taste, 2 cups of egg noodles, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Tip: Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking. Avoid cutting vegetables too small, as they may become mushy.
2. Sauté Vegetables
• Action: Sauté the vegetables in the Instant Pot.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Instant Pot, olive oil, carrots, celery, onion, garlic.
• Tip: Use the 'Sauté' setting on the Instant Pot. Heat the olive oil, then add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add Chicken and Broth
• Action: Add chicken breasts and broth to the pot.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Chicken breasts, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Tip: Make certain chicken breasts are fully submerged in the broth for even cooking. Avoid adding noodles at this stage, as they can become overcooked.
4. Pressure Cook the Soup
• Action: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Instant Pot lid, pressure cooking setting.
• Tip: Secure the lid and set the valve to 'Sealing'. Use the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' setting on high for 10 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Shred the Chicken
• Action: Remove and shred the chicken.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Tongs, two forks.
• Tip: Use tongs to safely remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Shred the chicken using two forks. Avoid shredding too finely, as larger pieces retain more moisture.
6. Cook the Noodles
• Action: Add noodles to the soup and cook.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Egg noodles.
• Tip: Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and add the noodles. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
7. Combine and Serve
• Action: Return shredded chicken to the pot and serve.
• Tools/Ingredients Needed: Serving bowls, ladle.
• Tip: Stir the shredded chicken back into the soup and taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve hot, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Avoid over-seasoning; it's easier to add salt than to remove it.

Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup!

Ingredient Gathering Steps

Gathering the right ingredients is an essential step in crafting a delicious Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. First, head to your pantry and fridge to check for essentials: chicken breasts or thighs, egg noodles, and chicken broth.

Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions are vital for flavor, so make certain you've got those on hand. Don't forget garlic cloves for that aromatic touch.

Grab some fresh parsley for a garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor. Seasonings are key, so verify you have salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

A splash of lemon juice will brighten the soup, so a fresh lemon is a must. With these ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking a comforting bowl of soup.

Pressure Cooking Technique

When you're ready to begin pressure cooking, start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add a bit of oil, then toss in diced onions, carrots, and celery. Stir them around until they're soft and aromatic.

Next, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute. Hit cancel to stop sautéing.

Place your chicken breasts in the pot, followed by chicken broth, bay leaves, and any desired herbs. Secure the lid and guarantee the valve is set to sealing.

Select the pressure cook setting, and adjust the timer to 10 minutes on high pressure. Once complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining steam.

Carefully remove the lid, and your soup is ready for the next step.

Caloric Content Details

Understanding the caloric content of your meals can help you make informed dietary choices. When you prepare Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, knowing the breakdown of the ingredients can guide your portion control and nutritional needs. This classic soup provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here's a simplified breakdown:

Conclusion

As you savor each spoonful of this Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, think of it as a warm embrace on a chilly day. The broth symbolizes comfort, enveloping the tender chicken and vibrant vegetables like a cozy blanket. Fresh herbs dance through the bowl, painting a picture of a fragrant garden in your kitchen. With every bite, you're not just nourishing your body but also feeding your soul, reminding you that home is just a bowl away.