Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Instant Pot - Easy & Fast!

Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup? Especially when you're feeling under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up. But who has hours to spend simmering soup on the stove? That's where the magic of the Instant Pot comes in! This chicken noodle soup recipe instant pot version is a game-changer, delivering that classic, soul-soothing flavor in a fraction of the time. We're talking about tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth, all ready in under an hour. Forget those canned soups loaded with sodium and mystery ingredients. This recipe is packed with wholesome goodness and allows you to customize it to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned Instant Pot pro or a newbie, this recipe is foolproof. So, grab your Instant Pot, and let's dive into creating the ultimate comfort food, simplified and sped up for your busy life. Get ready to discover how easy it is to make a delicious, homemade chicken noodle soup that will warm you from the inside out.

Why Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a Weeknight Winner

Speed and Efficiency: Soup's On in Minutes

Let's face it, weeknights are chaotic. Between work, kids, errands, and maybe squeezing in a workout, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That's where the Instant Pot shines. This isn't your grandma's all-day simmering affair. With the Instant Pot, you can have a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup on the table in under an hour. Seriously! The pressure cooking magic drastically reduces the cooking time, making it a lifesaver on those busy evenings when takeout seems like the only option. It's a game-changer for anyone who craves homemade comfort without the hefty time commitment.

One-Pot Wonder: Less Mess, More Flavor

Another reason why Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a weeknight champion? Minimal cleanup. Everything cooks in one pot – from sautéing the veggies to pressure cooking the chicken and noodles. No need to dirty multiple pots and pans. This not only saves you time on dishwashing but also helps to build deeper, more complex flavors as all the ingredients mingle and meld together in the same vessel. Less mess, more flavor? Sign me up!

Healthy and Customizable: Tailored to Your Taste

Beyond the speed and convenience, Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is a healthy and customizable option for weeknight dinners. You control the ingredients, so you can skip the processed stuff and load up on fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole-wheat noodles. Plus, it's easy to adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Add extra veggies, swap out the chicken for turkey, or use gluten-free noodles – the possibilities are endless! It's a win-win: a delicious, comforting meal that's also good for you and easily adaptable to your family's tastes.

Customization Ideas:

• Veggies: Add spinach, kale, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Protein: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or try shredded turkey.
• Noodles: Opt for whole-wheat, gluten-free, or egg noodles.
• Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock.

Ingredients You'll Need for Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Alright, let's gather our troops! Before we dive headfirst into Instant Pot chicken noodle soup glory, let's make sure we have all the necessary ingredients. Don't worry, it's a pretty straightforward list, and you probably have many of these items already chilling in your fridge and pantry. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to adapt it to what you have on hand. But for the sake of a truly delicious and comforting bowl of soup, let's aim for the following essentials. Think of this as your checklist for achieving ultimate chicken noodle soup nirvana!

The Core Four: Aromatics and Foundation

First up, we need our flavor base. This is where the magic starts! These ingredients create the aromatic foundation that will make your soup sing.

• Onion: One medium yellow onion, diced. This adds a savory sweetness that's essential for a good soup.
• Carrots: Two medium carrots, peeled and sliced. They add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery: Two stalks of celery, sliced. Celery brings an earthy, slightly peppery note.
• Garlic: Two cloves of garlic, minced. Because everything is better with garlic!

Protein Power: The Chicken

Next, we need the star of the show: the chicken! You have a few options here, depending on your preference and what you have available.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 1.5 pounds. This is the easiest and quickest option.
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: About 1.5 pounds. This adds more flavor to the broth, but you'll need to shred the chicken after cooking.
• Whole chicken: About 3-4 pounds. This is the most flavorful option, but it requires more work to debone the chicken after cooking.

I personally prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the richest flavor, but chicken breasts are a great option if you're short on time.

Broth and Seasoning: The Liquid Gold

Now, let's talk about the liquid base and the spices that will bring everything together.

• Chicken broth: 8 cups. Use low-sodium if you're watching your salt intake. Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought works just fine.
• Bay leaf: 1-2 bay leaves. This adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the soup.
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon. Thyme is a classic herb for chicken noodle soup.
• Salt and pepper: To taste. Don't be afraid to season generously!

Noodles: The Comfort Factor

Last but not least, we need the noodles! This is where you can really customize the soup to your liking.

• Egg noodles: These are the classic choice for chicken noodle soup.
• Rotini: A fun, twirly option that kids love.
• Ditalini: Small, tube-shaped pasta that's perfect for a more delicate soup.
• Gluten-free pasta: If you're gluten-free, there are plenty of great options available.

I usually use about 1 cup of dried noodles, but you can adjust the amount depending on how thick you like your soup.

So, there you have it! A complete list of ingredients for making the most delicious Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. Now that we've gathered our supplies, let's move on to the fun part: cooking!

StepbyStep: Making Chicken Noodle Soup in the Instant Pot

Sauté the Aromatics: Building the Flavor Base

Alright, let's get cooking! First things first, turn on your Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pot. Once it's heated up, toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for your soup. Don't rush it! Let those veggies release their natural sweetness and aromas.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Just a quick sauté is all you need to unleash its pungent flavor. This aromatic base is the foundation of a truly delicious chicken noodle soup.

Pressure Cook the Chicken: Tender and Juicy Perfection

Now, it's time to add the chicken. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning – it's what will bring the soup to life!

Cancel the "Sauté" function and secure the lid on the Instant Pot. Make sure the pressure valve is set to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the cooking time to 8 minutes for chicken breasts or 10 minutes for chicken thighs. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure, so be patient. Once it reaches pressure, the cooking time will begin.

While the chicken is cooking, you can prep any additional veggies you want to add to the soup, like spinach or mushrooms.

Add Noodles and Finish: Soup's On!

Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Remove the lid and take out the chicken. Place it on a cutting board and shred it with two forks. Be careful, as the chicken will be hot!

Turn the "Sauté" function back on. Add the noodles to the Instant Pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of noodles you use, so keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finally, add the shredded chicken back to the Instant Pot. Stir in any additional veggies you want to add, like spinach or peas. Cook for another minute or two, until the veggies are heated through. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time Guideline:

• Chicken breasts: 8 minutes
• Chicken thighs: 10 minutes
• Noodles: 5-7 minutes (depending on type)

Tips and Tricks for the Best Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Don't Overcook the Noodles: Timing is Key

This is probably the most common pitfall when making Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. Overcooked, mushy noodles are a major buzzkill. The key is to add the noodles *after* the chicken has cooked and the pressure has been released. Then, use the Sauté function to cook them until they're just al dente. Remember, they'll continue to cook a bit in the residual heat of the soup, so err on the side of slightly undercooked. Nobody wants a bowl of noodle mush!

Also, different types of noodles cook at different rates. Egg noodles tend to cook the quickest, while thicker noodles like rotini may take a bit longer. Keep a close eye on them and stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Deglaze the Pot: Unlock Extra Flavor

After sautéing the aromatics, there might be some browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot. These bits are packed with flavor, and you don't want to leave them behind! This is where deglazing comes in. Simply pour in a splash of chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up those flavorful bits. This not only adds depth to your soup but also prevents the dreaded "Burn" warning on your Instant Pot.

Trust me, this simple step makes a world of difference in the overall flavor of your chicken noodle soup. It's like unlocking a secret level of deliciousness!

Here’s a handy table to guide you:

Salt to Taste: The Flavor Amplifier

This might seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning: don't underestimate the power of salt! Salt is a flavor amplifier, and it can make or break your chicken noodle soup. The amount of salt you need will depend on the saltiness of your chicken broth, so it's best to add it gradually and taste as you go. I like to add a pinch of salt at each stage of the cooking process – when sautéing the veggies, when adding the broth, and again at the end, before serving.

Also, consider using freshly ground black pepper. It has a much more vibrant flavor than pre-ground pepper. A generous pinch of black pepper adds a nice warmth and complexity to the soup.

Variations: Level Up Your Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Spice It Up: Adding Heat and Depth

so you've mastered the basic Instant Pot chicken noodle soup. Now, let's get a little adventurous! One of the easiest ways to level up your soup is by adding a touch of heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a subtle warmth, while a diced jalapeño will kick things up a notch. If you're feeling really bold, try adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce. But don't stop there! Experiment with different spices to create unique flavor profiles. A teaspoon of curry powder will add an exotic twist, while a smoked paprika will give your soup a smoky depth. Get creative and find your perfect spice blend!

For instance, I once added a small can of diced green chilies and a squeeze of lime juice to my chicken noodle soup. The result was a vibrant, Southwestern-inspired soup that was a total crowd-pleaser. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and use what you have on hand. You might just discover your new favorite soup variation!

Veggie Power: Boosting Nutrition and Flavor

Another fantastic way to elevate your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is by loading it up with extra veggies. Not only does this boost the nutritional value of your soup, but it also adds layers of flavor and texture. Think beyond the standard carrots and celery. Add some chopped spinach or kale for a boost of vitamins and minerals. Sliced mushrooms will add an earthy richness, while diced zucchini or bell peppers will bring a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless!

Consider roasting your vegetables before adding them to the soup. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized depth of flavor that will take your soup to the next level. Toss your veggies with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they're tender and slightly browned. Then, add them to the Instant Pot along with the broth and chicken. Trust me, this extra step is well worth it!

The Last Word on Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

So there you have it – a quick, easy, and utterly delicious chicken noodle soup recipe instant pot that's perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting meal. From customizing the veggies to experimenting with different herbs and spices, the possibilities are endless. The Instant Pot truly simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Now, go forth and create your own signature version of this classic dish! Whether you stick to the basics or add your own creative flair, one thing's for sure: a warm bowl of Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is always a good idea.