Imagine a warm bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup, steam rising, aromas swirling, and flavors dancing on your taste buds—it’s like a cozy hug from the inside. This delightful dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to curl up with comfort food that doesn’t just fill your belly but warms your soul.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where my grandmother would whip up her famous soup. The bubbling pot on the stove was like a magical fountain of joy that brought everyone together. Whether it was a rainy day or just a regular Tuesday, her soup could turn any moment into a cherished memory. Now, you too can create your own delightful moments with this Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup recipe that promises to be as heartwarming as it is delicious!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile combines savory chicken with garden-fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate any seasonal veggies you have on hand!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly here; adjust depending on how many bowls you want to fill.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; choose firm ones for the best texture.
- Celery Stalks: These give a lovely crunch and enhance the overall flavor; select crispy stalks for optimal taste.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth; chop it finely so it melds beautifully into the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an irresistible aroma; use about three cloves for that punchy flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth makes this soup rich without overwhelming saltiness—your taste buds will thank you!
- Diced Tomatoes: One can of diced tomatoes adds acidity and brightness; opt for fire-roasted varieties for extra flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A tablespoon or two brings all those flavors together—think of it as your secret weapon!
- Spinach or Kale: Adding greens boosts nutrition; toss in whatever leafy green you have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
For maximum flavor explosion, follow these simple steps:
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil and let it heat up until shimmering. Toss in chopped onions and garlic, stirring until they soften and become fragrant—your kitchen will smell incredible!
Add Your Veggies: Next, introduce diced carrots and celery to the pot. Stir them around until they soften slightly; this usually takes about five minutes. You’re creating layers of flavor here!
Incorporate Chicken: Now it’s time to add those beautiful chicken breasts right in there. Pour in some chicken broth and diced tomatoes along with Italian seasoning—this is where things get exciting!
Pressure Cook Like a Pro: Close the lid tightly and set your Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for about ten minutes. Don’t forget to allow time for natural pressure release afterward—it’s like letting the soup rest before serving.
Add Greens Last: Once you’ve released pressure, stir in fresh spinach or kale. They’ll wilt instantly from the residual heat while adding vibrant color and nutrients—your soup is looking gorgeous!
Taste Test Time!: Finally, give your soup a taste test! Adjust seasoning if needed with salt and pepper according to preference. There’s nothing like that first spoonful of piping hot goodness!
With these simple steps completed, you now have a delectable bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup that will warm hearts (and bellies) everywhere! Enjoy every last drop as you savor those memories created alongside each comforting spoonful!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup offers more than just comfort; it’s a one-pot wonder that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven
- Not only does it nourish the body, but it also warms the soul with every spoonful
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for gatherings!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sauté the chicken on the Instant Pot’s high setting until golden brown. Next, throw in your veggies and seasoning, followed by broth. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. This sequence ensures rich flavors and tender chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like kale or zucchini. You can also try different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor twist. Add some cooked pasta or rice to make it heartier!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, ensuring it retains its delightful flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let the soup cool before storing to prevent condensation
- Use low-sodium broth for a healthier version while still enjoying rich flavors
- Don’t rush the sautéing process; browning adds depth to the dish!
After trying this recipe at a family gathering, my cousin exclaimed that it was like getting a warm hug in a bowl! Who knew soup could spark such joy?
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup?
To make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup, gather the following ingredients: boneless chicken breasts or thighs, a mix of your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and seasonings such as thyme and pepper. You can customize the soup by adding other vegetables or spices to suit your taste. This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent option for a hearty meal.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup?
Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is quick and easy. The cooking time is approximately 10 minutes under high pressure. However, you should also factor in the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and release steam afterward. Including these steps, total preparation and cooking time will be about 30 minutes. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal fast.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup! To do this effectively, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you can enjoy your delicious soup even on days when you’re short on time.
How can I make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup healthier?
To make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup healthier, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and adding more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing or include whole grains like quinoa for added fiber. Using skinless chicken helps lower fat content while still providing protein. These small adjustments can enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup:
Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is an excellent choice for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal. Using simple ingredients allows you to create a nutritious dish that everyone will love. With its ease of preparation and flexibility in ingredient choices, this soup fits into any dietary preference while offering rich flavors. Enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week and savor the goodness of homemade soup in less than 30 minutes!
Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender chicken and vibrant vegetables in a warm, nourishing bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this hearty soup is ready in just 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite that warms both your body and soul.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups chopped fresh carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 2 cups chopped celery (about 4 stalks)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
Instructions
- Select the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add 2 tsp olive oil and heat until shimmering. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped carrots and celery; cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Place the chicken breasts into the pot, followed by the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- Close the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release afterward.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale until wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
