Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup. With an Instant Pot, you get rich flavor, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles in a fraction of the time. This recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for busy days or cozy nights. Keep reading to learn how to make the ultimate Instant Pot chicken noodle soup step by step.
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Instapot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food loved by many. It’s soothing, hearty, and packed with flavor. Traditionally, making it could take hours, but the Instant Pot changes the game.
With this method:
- Quick and Easy: You can have a full pot of soup ready in under an hour.
- Rich Flavor: Pressure cooking extracts maximum flavor from chicken and vegetables.
- Tender Chicken & Perfect Noodles: The Instant Pot cooks chicken perfectly without drying it out and ensures noodles are soft but not mushy.
- Customizable: You can easily add extra vegetables, herbs, or spices to match your taste.
- Great for Busy Days: Minimal prep and hands-off cooking make it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, gather fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Chicken Options:
- Whole chicken: gives rich flavor and tender meat
- Chicken breasts or thighs: quicker cooking and easy shredding
- Rotisserie chicken: for a shortcut, especially if short on time
Vegetables:
- Carrots: peeled and sliced
- Celery: chopped
- Onion: diced
- Garlic: minced (optional for extra flavor)
- Optional additions: peas, corn, green beans, or spinach
Noodles:
Egg noodles or any pasta of your choice
Note: Cook separately or add at the end to avoid overcooking
Broth & Liquid:
- Chicken broth or stock: for a rich base
- Water: can be used to adjust consistency
Seasonings & Herbs:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried or fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves
- Optional: a pinch of turmeric or paprika for extra flavor
Optional Add-Ons & Substitutions:
- Low-sodium broth for a healthier option
- Gluten-free noodles if needed
- Extra vegetables for a heartier soup
- Lemon juice or vinegar for a touch of brightness
Pro Tip: Using a combination of chicken and fresh vegetables ensures the soup is flavorful, nutritious, and perfectly balanced.
Equipment Needed
Making this soup in the Instant Pot is simple, and you only need a few essential tools:
Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot works best for this recipe. Any brand of electric pressure cooker with sauté and pressure functions will work.
Cutting Board and Knife
For chopping vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Ensure a sharp knife for quick and clean cuts.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
For accurately measuring broth, water, seasonings, and spices.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
To sauté vegetables and stir ingredients without scratching the pot.
Tongs or Forks
For shredding cooked chicken easily inside or outside the pot.
Optional Tools
- Colander or Strainer: if you cook noodles separately.
- Ladle: for serving hot soup.
- Soup Bowls: to enjoy your homemade meal in style.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make a flavorful and hearty Instant Pot chicken noodle soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Turn on the Instant Pot to the Sauté mode. Add a little oil or butter. Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery for 3–5 minutes until slightly softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Soup Base
Pour in chicken broth or stock. Add salt, pepper, and herbs (like thyme, parsley, or bay leaves). Stir to combine and bring the mixture slightly to a simmer.
Step 3: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Place whole chicken, chicken breasts, or thighs into the pot. Close the lid and seal the vent.
Cook on High Pressure:
- Whole chicken: 25–30 minutes
- Chicken breasts/thighs: 10–12 minutes
Allow natural pressure release for 5–10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot.
- Use forks or tongs to shred the meat.
- Discard bones if using a whole chicken.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Turn the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode. Add noodles and cook until tender (usually 5–8 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return shredded chicken to the pot. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs. Optional: add fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy immediately.
Tips for Perfect Soup
Making the ultimate Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is easy if you follow these expert tips:
Choosing the Right Chicken
- Whole chicken: Rich flavor and tender meat, perfect for traditional soup.
- Breasts or thighs: Cook faster and are easy to shred.
- Rotisserie chicken: Great shortcut when short on time.
Sauté or Skip
Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery adds depth of flavor. If in a hurry, you can skip sautéing, but the soup will be slightly less rich.
Stock vs. Water
Chicken stock or broth gives the best flavor. Water can be used in a pinch, but consider adding bouillon for richness.
Cooking Noodles Properly
Add noodles at the end to prevent overcooking. For leftovers, cook noodles separately and add them when serving.
Season Gradually
Add a small amount of salt and pepper during cooking. Adjust at the end for best flavor.
Customize with Herbs and Veggies
Fresh parsley, thyme, or a bay leaf enhance flavor. Extra vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach make it heartier.
Quick Release vs. Natural Release
Natural release keeps chicken tender and juicy. Quick release is faster but may slightly reduce tenderness.
Variations and Add-Ons
Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or the ingredients you have on hand.
Healthy Options
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce salt. Add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale for more nutrients. Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier twist.
Rotisserie Chicken Version
Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut. Skip the pressure cooking step; just add shredded chicken and simmer until heated. Adjust seasoning to compensate for the seasoned rotisserie chicken.
Extra Vegetables and Herbs
Add peas, corn, green beans, or bell peppers for more color and flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill elevate aroma and taste.
Flavor Boosters
A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar brightens the soup. A dash of paprika or turmeric adds warmth and depth. Optional garlic powder or onion powder can enhance flavor without extra chopping.
Protein Variations
Mix in shredded turkey for a post-holiday twist. For a lighter option, use skinless chicken breasts only.
Storing and Freezing Your Soup
Proper storage ensures your chicken noodle soup stays fresh and delicious for days or weeks.
Storing in the Refrigerator
Allow the soup to cool slightly before storing. Transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4–5 days.
- Tip: Store noodles separately if you plan to keep leftovers to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Freezing Your Soup
Cool the soup completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Tip: If possible, leave noodles out when freezing. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If noodles were stored separately, cook or heat them just before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings, as flavors may mellow after refrigeration or freezing.
Extra Tips
Label containers with the date for easy tracking. Portion into single-serving containers for convenient grab-and-go meals. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain tender chicken and noodles.
- Pro Tip: Proper storage keeps your soup tasting just like freshly made, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Nutrition Information and Health Benefits
Chicken noodle soup isn’t just comforting—it’s also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits and key nutritional information.
Key Nutrients
- Protein: Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions offer vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Hydration: Broth-based soups help keep you hydrated.
Calories and Macros (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 180–250 kcal
- Protein: 18–25 g
- Carbohydrates: 15–20 g (depends on noodles)
- Fat: 4–7 g (depending on chicken cuts and oil used)
Health Benefits
- Supports Immunity: Warm broth and vegetables can soothe the throat and provide essential nutrients during illness.
- Low in Fat (if skinless chicken is used): Makes it a heart-healthy option.
- High in Protein: Keeps you full and satisfied, making it ideal for a balanced meal.
- Customizable for Diets: Can be made gluten-free, low-sodium, or lower-calorie by adjusting ingredients.
Tips for Healthier Soup
Use skinless chicken to reduce fat. Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt intake. Add extra vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Conclusion
Making chicken noodle soup in the Instant Pot is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles, this recipe delivers comfort in every bowl. Whether you stick to the classic version, add extra vegetables, or try a rotisserie chicken shortcut, you’ll have a wholesome, delicious meal ready in no time. Follow these steps, tips, and variations, and enjoy the warmth and nutrition of homemade soup anytime.
FAQS
Instapot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Turn your Instant Pot to the saute setting. (See your manufacturer’s guide for detailed instructions on how to use your instant pot.)
- Add the butter and cook until the butter has melted. Add the onion, carrots and celery and saute for 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Season with salt and pepper, add the thyme, parsley, oregano, chicken bouillon and stir.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth. Add the chicken pieces and add another 4 cups of water.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Close the lid (follow the manufacturer's guide for instructions on how to close the instant pot lid). Set the Instant Pot to the Soup setting and set the timer to 7 minutes. If your instant pot doesn't have the Soup setting just use Manual/high pressure for 7 minutes.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Once the Instant Pot cycle is complete, wait until the natural release cycle is complete, should take about 10 minutes. Follow the manufacturer's guide for quick release, if in a rush. Carefully unlock and remove the lid from the instant pot.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the soup and shred with two forks.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Add the noodles to the soup and set the Instant Pot to the saute setting again. Cook for another 6 minutes uncovered, or until the noodles are cooked.
- process shots showing how to make chicken noodle soup in an instant pot.
- Turn off the Instant Pot, by pressing the cancel button. Add the shredded chicken back to the Instant Pot, taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. Garnish with additional parsley if preferred.