Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and made quickly in the Instant Pot. This Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a healthy, delicious meal. It’s a flavorful twist on the classic, offering a satisfying kick that will warm you from the inside out.

Why Choose Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized cooking, making it faster and easier to prepare wholesome meals. Using chicken breast in this soup is a great way to ensure a lean and protein-packed dish. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Speed: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods. You can have a flavorful soup ready in under an hour.
• Flavor: Pressure cooking infuses the chicken and vegetables with rich, deep flavor, creating a more satisfying soup.
• Healthy: Chicken breast is a lean protein source, and this recipe is loaded with vegetables, making it a nutritious and wholesome meal.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Convenient: It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Breast Soup

Before you start, gather your ingredients. This recipe uses common pantry staples and fresh produce, making it easy to whip up anytime.

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show. Use fresh or frozen, but keep in mind that frozen will increase the cooking time slightly. About 1.5 – 2 pounds will do.
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, and ginger form the base of the flavor profile. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
• Vegetables: Carrots and celery add sweetness and texture. Dice them into bite-sized pieces. Bell peppers (red or yellow) offer a boost of vitamins and flavor.
• Broth: Chicken broth or stock is essential for the liquid base. Use low-sodium to control the saltiness. 6-8 cups.
• Spices: This is where the “spicy” comes in. Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat), and a pinch of red pepper flakes are the key components. Adjust the amounts to your preferred spice level.
• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) add acidity and depth of flavor.
• Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the soup at the end.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is the perfect garnish, adding a burst of freshness.
• Olive Oil: To sauté the aromatics.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Plate

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil to the pot. Once heated, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices. Cook for another minute to bloom the spices.

3. Add Chicken and Liquid: Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the liquid.

4. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10-12 minutes for fresh chicken breasts, or 15-18 minutes for frozen.

5. Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually by turning the valve to the “Venting” position.

6. Shred Chicken and Finish Soup: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the lime juice.

7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot. You can also add toppings like avocado, sour cream, or tortilla strips.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Chicken Thickness: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. If the chicken is very thick, you may need to add a few more minutes to the cooking time.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or spinach. Add spinach at the very end, after pressure cooking, as it wilts quickly.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the soup after pressure cooking. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Variations and Adaptations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas to customize your Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup:

• Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans, corn, and a can of Rotel tomatoes with green chilies for a Mexican flair. Top with avocado and a dollop of sour cream.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.
• Noodle Soup: Add cooked egg noodles or rice noodles to the soup after pressure cooking for a heartier meal.
• Lemon Chicken Soup: Substitute lemon juice for lime juice and add a teaspoon of dried dill for a Mediterranean twist.
• Add Some Heat: Incorporate fresh or canned jalapenos, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with other dishes.

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup.
• Quesadillas: A cheese quesadilla is a classic pairing for chicken soup.
• Grilled Cheese: Another comfort food favorite that pairs perfectly with a warm bowl of soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful contrast to the spicy soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen chicken breast? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast. However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes (about 15-18 minutes total).
• Can I make this soup on the stovetop? Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and vegetables in a large pot, then add the chicken, broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and stir in the lime juice and cilantro before serving.
• How do I make the soup less spicy? Reduce the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to balance the flavors.
• Can I add beans to this soup? Yes, you can add canned beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to the soup after pressure cooking.
• How long does the soup last in the refrigerator? The soup will last for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.