Comforting Chicken Instant Pot Soup

There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially when it’s homemade. And with the magic of the Instant Pot, achieving that comforting flavor is easier and faster than ever before. This recipe for Comforting Chicken Instant Pot Soup is a game-changer, delivering a rich, flavorful broth and tender chicken in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a cozy meal, or simply looking for a healthy and delicious dinner option, this Instant Pot chicken soup is sure to become a family favorite.

The Magic of Instant Pot Chicken Soup

The Instant Pot’s pressure-cooking abilities transform the process of making chicken soup. Typically, simmering chicken for hours is required to extract maximum flavor and create a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture. The Instant Pot achieves this in a fraction of the time, sealing in moisture and intensifying the flavors. This results in a deeply satisfying soup with a rich broth that tastes like it has been simmering all day. Another benefit of using an Instant Pot is the ease of cleanup. Everything cooks in one pot, minimizing dishes and simplifying the entire cooking process.

Crafting the Perfect Flavor Profile

The key to exceptional chicken soup lies in building a robust flavor profile. This starts with the foundational ingredients:

• Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, like thighs and drumsticks, are ideal for maximizing flavor. The bones release collagen, contributing to a richer, more gelatinous broth, while the skin adds depth and richness. You can also use a whole chicken for the ultimate flavor.
• Aromatic Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of onions, carrots, and celery forms the aromatic base of the soup. These vegetables release their savory sweetness as they cook, creating a complex and layered flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and bay leaf elevate the soup with their fragrant notes. Dried herbs can also be used, but fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhance the overall taste without overpowering the delicate flavors of the chicken and vegetables. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle warmth.
• Broth: Chicken broth or stock is crucial for creating a flavorful base. Homemade broth is always preferable for its depth of flavor, but store-bought broth can be used in a pinch. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt content of the soup.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavor enhancers! A splash of lemon juice brightens the soup, while a drizzle of olive oil adds richness. Adding a Parmesan cheese rind while cooking can contribute a salty, umami depth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Chicken Soup Success

Follow these simple steps for a foolproof Instant Pot chicken soup experience:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pot. Once heated, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

2. Brown the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor, brown the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot before adding the other ingredients. This step is optional, but it adds a depth of flavor to the soup. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients: Add the chicken broth or stock to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (this is where a lot of flavor resides!). Add the chicken pieces back to the pot, along with the herbs, spices, and any other desired flavor enhancers. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the broth.

4. Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 20-25 minutes for bone-in chicken pieces, or 10-12 minutes for boneless chicken breasts.

5. Natural Pressure Release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes. This helps prevent the chicken from drying out. After 10-15 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.

6. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the Instant Pot and shred the meat with two forks. Discard the bones and skin.

7. Add Noodles (Optional): If you’re adding noodles to the soup, bring the broth to a boil using the “Sauté” function. Add the noodles and cook until tender, according to package directions. Common choices are egg noodles, ditalini, or orzo.

8. Add Fresh Vegetables (Optional): If you desire softer or crisper veggies that the original mirepoix, add them with the noodles, or just before serving.

9. Return the Chicken and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and stir to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about chicken soup is its versatility. Feel free to adapt this recipe to your own tastes and preferences:

• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, peas, corn, or green beans.
• Protein: Use turkey instead of chicken. Consider adding cooked sausage or ham for a heartier soup.
• Grains: Add rice, quinoa, or barley for a more substantial soup.
• Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture.
• Lemon Chicken Soup: Add lemon slices to the broth while cooking, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serve your Comforting Chicken Instant Pot Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple salad.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If freezing, consider freezing the broth and cooked chicken separately from any noodles to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes. Make sure the chicken is not frozen together in a solid block; separate the pieces as much as possible before adding them to the Instant Pot.
• How do I make the soup thicker? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can remove a cup or two of the broth and blend it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender. Then, return the blended broth to the Instant Pot and stir to combine. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the boiling broth at the end of cooking.
• Can I make this soup on the stovetop? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Sauté the vegetables as directed, then add the chicken, broth, herbs, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
• Is this soup healthy? Chicken soup is generally considered a healthy and nutritious meal. It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also a great source of hydration. The vegetables provide fiber and antioxidants. To keep the soup as healthy as possible, use low-sodium broth and load up on the vegetables.
• Can I add rice to this recipe? Yes, you can add rice. It’s best to add rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking. You may need to add more liquid if rice absorbs it all.