In the chaos of a busy week, I find that a good chicken soup can be both a balm and a quick fix. The Instant Pot makes it foolproof, turning simple ingredients into something that feels restorative. It’s a recipe born from necessity but grown into comfort.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Soup
It’s a reliable hug in a bowl — soothing, straightforward, and endlessly adaptable. I love how it transforms humble ingredients into something nourishing and warm, especially on those hectic days. Plus, it’s a recipe that’s quick enough for weeknights but hearty enough for weekends.
Breaking Down the Key Ingredients
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Juicy, tender, and forgiving—great for shredding and full of flavor.
- Carrots: Sweet and earthy, they add color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Celery: Crisp and aromatic, it layers in subtle bitterness and freshness.
- Chicken broth: Rich and savory—opt for homemade or a good quality store-bought.
- Thyme and herbs: Aromatic and bright, they elevate the broth’s flavor profile.
- Lemon or parsley: Brighten up the dish with a squeeze of lemon or fresh herbs.
- Olive oil or butter: Fundamental for sautéing and building flavor.
Tools of the Trade for Instant Pot Chicken Soup
- Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker: The main vessel for fast, even cooking.
- Chopping board and sharp knife: Prepping vegetables and chicken efficiently.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Stirring and scraping flavor from the pot.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Ensuring accurate seasoning and liquids.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Rich, Soul-Warming Chicken Soup
Step 1: Start by gathering your ingredients and setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode.
Step 2: Add a splash of oil, then toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in chicken broth, add your chicken pieces, and season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 4: Lock the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 15 minutes. Let the steam release naturally.
Step 5: Open the lid, check the chicken is tender and shredded easily. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Cooking Checkpoints & Tips for Success
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
- Check for enough seasoning—adjust salt or add a splash of soy sauce for depth.
- Observe the soup’s consistency—if too thick, stir in a bit more broth.
- Look for a gentle simmer with no burning or sticking at the sauté stage.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- Using too little seasoning.? Add more salt if the broth tastes flat.
- Cooking chicken for too long.? Reduce pressure cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Lack of brightness in the flavor.? Stir in a splash of lemon juice if the broth is dull.
- Overly dense texture.? If soup is too thick, stir in warm broth.
Instant Pot Chicken Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil or butter. When the oil is shimmering and fragrant, add chopped carrots, celery, and onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic, with a slight sizzle and the vegetables softening.
- Add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Place the chicken pieces into the broth, then sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged.
- Lock the lid onto the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 15 minutes. During cooking, you’ll hear a steady bubbling sound as the pressure builds.
- When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn the vent to release any remaining steam. Open the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon on the side. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this nourishing, vibrant dish.
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