Introduction
A bowl of chicken noodle soup has always been more than just a meal. It carries comfort, nourishment, and a sense of home with every spoonful. Preparing it in the Instant Pot brings together all the familiar flavors while saving time and effort in the kitchen. With the pressure cooking method, the chicken becomes tender, the vegetables soften perfectly, and the broth develops a rich depth in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove. This recipe captures the essence of the classic dish while giving you a quick and reliable way to serve it to your family.
Making chicken noodle soup in the Instant Pot is a wonderful option for busy weeknights, cold winter evenings, or whenever you need a wholesome dish to warm the body and soul. The blend of chicken, carrots, celery, onions, herbs, and noodles creates a balance of flavors that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Beyond its taste, the convenience of one-pot cooking means less cleanup, making it an easy favorite for home cooks who want comfort without complication.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast (1 lb) | 500 |
| Olive oil (1 tbsp) | 120 |
| Carrots (2 medium) | 50 |
| Celery (2 stalks) | 20 |
| Onion (1 medium) | 45 |
| Garlic (3 cloves) | 15 |
| Chicken broth (6 cups) | 90 |
| Egg noodles (3 cups) | 660 |
| Bay leaf (1) | 0 |
| Dried thyme (1 tsp) | 3 |
| Salt (to taste) | 0 |
| Black pepper (to taste) | 0 |
| Fresh parsley (2 tbsp) | 8 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Heat the olive oil until it shimmers.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about four minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Place the chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
- Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to season the broth.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on high for ten minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally for ten minutes, then switch the valve to quick release.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks before returning them to the pot.
- Stir in the egg noodles and set the Instant Pot to sauté again. Cook for about six minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Finish with fresh parsley, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
The beauty of Instant Pot chicken noodle soup lies in how easily it can be adapted. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a heartier soup, add diced potatoes or corn. For those who enjoy a stronger herb presence, fresh rosemary or dill can be added. Using whole wheat noodles or zucchini noodles makes it lighter and suitable for different dietary preferences. You can even swap egg noodles for rice if you want a gluten free option.
Nutritional Information
A serving of this Instant Pot chicken noodle soup contains approximately 280 calories. It provides a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Each serving includes around 22 grams of protein from the chicken, 35 grams of carbohydrates from the noodles and vegetables, and 7 grams of fat mainly from the olive oil. The soup also contains dietary fiber, vitamins from the vegetables, and important minerals from the broth.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken noodle soup is best enjoyed warm, straight from the pot. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated parmesan on top adds richness, while a squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors. For gatherings, serve it in large bowls with crackers on the side. The soup also reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or storing for a quick lunch during the week.
Conclusion
Few dishes provide the same comfort and satisfaction as chicken noodle soup, and making it in the Instant Pot makes the process effortless without compromising flavor. The tender chicken, soft vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles create a bowl that feels both hearty and nourishing. Whether you are cooking for your family or preparing a simple meal for yourself, this recipe brings warmth and ease to your kitchen. Once you try it, it will likely become a go to dish that you return to again and again whenever comfort is needed most.
