Why Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Heals Fast

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, **Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup** is your go-to remedy. This scrumptious, nutrient-packed recipe isn’t just soothing for the soul—it’s crafted to help you heal faster. Rich in wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s an effortless dish that marries convenience with comforting goodness, delivering both satisfaction and nourishment in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultra-Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time without sacrificing depth of flavor, perfect for busy or under-the-weather days.
  • Deep Nutritional Boost: Loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh veggies, lean chicken, and broth, it supports faster recovery and immunity.
  • Comfort in Every Bite: The warm, savory broth combined with tender noodles and chicken hits the spot for emotional and physical well-being.
  • Minimal Fuss: With one pot and simple prep, this recipe keeps your kitchen mess to a minimum while maximizing taste.
  • Family Favorite: It appeals to all ages, making it a versatile meal for loved ones needing a pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component enhances texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits, ensuring your soup tastes rich and fresh every time.

  • Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy meat that shreds easily.
  • Carrots and Celery: Add a subtle sweetness and crunch to balance the savory broth.
  • Yellow Onion: Provides a fragrant base that enriches every spoonful.
  • Garlic Cloves: Punctuate the broth with robust, healing notes.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium to control saltiness and keep the soup nourishing.
  • Dried Thyme and Bay Leaves: Infuse herbal undertones that elevate the flavor complexity.
  • Egg Noodles: The perfect pasta choice for soft, chewy bites that absorb broth beautifully.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the dish’s natural flavors.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, adding subtle richness and depth.

Variations for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

One of the best parts about Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is how easily you can tweak it to fit your preferences or pantry stash. Make it your own by trying these variations.

  • Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, peas, or zucchini to pack extra nutrients and freshness.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies like zucchini noodles.
  • Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to warm you up even more.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary, parsley, or sage for different herbal nuances.
  • Protein Swap: Use shredded turkey or tofu for a change in protein source while keeping the soup hearty.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat olive oil. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation of your soup.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth

Place chicken pieces on top of the sautéed veggies, pour in chicken broth, and toss in thyme and bay leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper to season throughout.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Add Noodles

Remove chicken and shred with forks. Return the meat to the pot along with egg noodles, then simmer on sauté mode for another 5 minutes until noodles are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove bay leaves, stir gently, and ladle the soup into bowls for serving.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Use Homemade Broth: If possible, homemade chicken broth adds incredible depth and nutrients.
  • Don’t Overcook Noodles: Add noodles at the end to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
  • Natural Pressure Release: Helps keep the chicken moist and prevents splattering.
  • Fresh Herbs Finish: Stir in chopped parsley or dill just before serving to brighten flavors.
  • Double the Recipe: Soup freezes well, so make extra for quick meals later.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Garnishes

Add freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to enhance each bowl’s aroma and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with a crusty whole-grain bread, light salad, or simple roasted vegetables to round out your meal without overpowering the soup’s delicate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess and visual appeal that makes every meal feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully; place it in freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Leave out noodles if you prefer to add fresh ones after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using frozen chicken works well with the Instant Pot as it cooks thoroughly under pressure, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this soup suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Its gentle flavors and soft noodles appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a family-friendly meal.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Add noodles at the very end of cooking and simmer just until tender; avoid pressure cooking noodles with the soup to keep texture firm.

What are the health benefits of this Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

This soup provides hydration, vitamins A and C from vegetables, protein from chicken, and immune-supporting garlic and herbs, making it ideal for recovery and wellness.

Final Thoughts

Ready to warm your heart and heal faster? This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup combines speed, nutrition, and comfort in one irresistibly tasty bowl. Whether you’re under the weather or simply in need of a cozy meal, give this recipe a try—it’ll become your new kitchen favorite that feels like a little piece of healing magic.

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Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free noodles)

Description

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm, comforting, and nutrient-packed meal that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and soft egg noodles in a savory broth. Designed to be quick and easy, this recipe helps you heal faster with wholesome ingredients and deep flavors, all ready in under an hour.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Vegetables

  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Liquids and Broth

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Other

  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat olive oil. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation of your soup.
  2. Add Chicken and Broth: Place chicken pieces on top of the sautéed veggies, pour in chicken broth, and toss in thyme and bay leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper to season throughout.
  3. Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid.
  4. Shred Chicken and Add Noodles: Remove chicken and shred with forks. Return the meat to the pot along with egg noodles, then simmer on sauté mode for another 5 minutes until noodles are tender but not mushy.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove bay leaves, stir gently, and ladle the soup into bowls for serving.

Notes

  • Use homemade chicken broth if possible for greater depth and nutrients.
  • Add noodles at the end to prevent them from getting mushy.
  • Allow natural pressure release to keep chicken moist and prevent splatter.
  • Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving to brighten flavors.
  • Double the recipe to make extra; the soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soups
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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