Introduction
Warm bowls of instant pot chicken noodle soup bring comfort like no other meal. The aroma of tender chicken simmering with vegetables fills the kitchen and creates an inviting feeling that suits any season. Every spoon delivers warmth, nourishment, and familiar homemade flavor.
Busy schedules often make slow cooking difficult, yet craving something wholesome never fades. Using an instant pot allows this classic soup to come together quickly while still developing deep flavor. Pressure cooking locks in moisture and creates a rich broth without long hours on the stove.
Home cooks love this recipe because it feels traditional while fitting modern lifestyles. Simple ingredients combine beautifully, making the soup suitable for family dinners, recovery meals, or quiet evenings when comfort food matters most.
Ingredients Needed
The following ingredients create a balanced and hearty soup. Calorie values are approximate and may vary based on brands.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 500 grams | 550 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Onion chopped | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic minced | 4 cloves | 18 |
| Carrots sliced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery chopped | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | 90 |
| Egg noodles | 2 cups | 420 |
| Bay leaf | 1 | 2 |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | 5 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Turn on the instant pot and select the sauté setting.
- Add olive oil and allow it to warm for a few seconds.
- Place chopped onions into the pot and stir until soft and fragrant.
- Add garlic and cook briefly until aroma develops.
- Place chicken breasts into the pot and lightly sear on both sides.
- Add carrots and celery and mix gently with the chicken.
- Pour in chicken broth ensuring all ingredients are submerged.
- Add bay leaf thyme black pepper and salt.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing position.
- Select pressure cook on high for eight minutes.
- Once cooking completes allow natural pressure release for five minutes.
- Carefully release remaining pressure and open the lid.
- Remove chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Add egg noodles and stir gently.
- Close the lid and pressure cook for three minutes.
- Perform quick release and open lid carefully.
- Add lemon juice and fresh parsley.
- Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Soup flavors can change beautifully with small adjustments. Adding fresh ginger creates warmth and supports digestion during cold weather. A pinch of turmeric enhances color and provides gentle earthiness without overpowering the broth.
Vegetables can be swapped based on preference or availability. Zucchini peas or corn blend nicely while maintaining texture. Whole wheat or gluten free noodles work well and keep the soup inclusive for different diets.
Those seeking richer flavor may stir in a small amount of butter after cooking. For extra protein cooked chickpeas or white beans offer a hearty twist without altering the classic nature of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Instant pot chicken noodle soup offers a balanced meal that nourishes the body. One serving provides high quality protein for muscle support while vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals.
Chicken broth helps maintain hydration and supports digestion. Carrots and celery add fiber which aids gut health. Moderate calorie content makes this soup suitable for light meals without feeling heavy.
Approximate nutrition per serving includes 320 calories with low fat moderate carbohydrates and strong protein content. Sodium levels can be controlled easily by adjusting salt and broth choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with warm bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal. A light green salad on the side adds freshness and balance. For children pairing with soft crackers makes it comforting and familiar.
During colder months this soup shines as a main dish. In warmer seasons smaller portions work well as a starter. It also stores well and reheats without losing flavor making it perfect for meal prep.
Adding fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the bowl and enhances aroma. Each serving feels homemade and nourishing.
Conclusion
Instant pot chicken noodle soup combines tradition comfort and efficiency into one reliable recipe. Tender chicken rich broth and soft noodles come together effortlessly while keeping flavors clean and wholesome.
Cooking this soup at home builds connection through food and offers warmth that store bought versions cannot match. Every bowl reflects care simplicity and nourishment which makes it a timeless favorite for all ages.
Once prepared this recipe often becomes a regular part of weekly meals. Comfort convenience and flavor unite beautifully creating a dish worth returning to again and again.
