[Full Guide] How Long To Make Chicken Noodle Soup In Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can significantly reduce the cooking time of various dishes, making it a convenient tool for busy individuals. Making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also allows for the flavors to meld together in a pressure-cooking environment. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot, including the selection of ingredients, preparation steps, Instant Pot cooking times, troubleshooting common issues, and the step-by-step process to achieve a flavorful and comforting chicken noodle soup.

Quick Answer: How Long To Make Chicken Noodle Soup In Instant Pot

The approximate time required to make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot is around 25-30 minutes, excluding the time taken for the pot to reach pressure and release pressure.

Selection

Ingredients

When making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot, selecting the right ingredients is crucial to achieving a well-balanced and delicious soup. Here are some key ingredients to consider:

1. Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. These cuts of meat cook well in the Instant Pot and provide a tender texture in the soup.

2. Vegetables: Common vegetables used in chicken noodle soup include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Fresh vegetables add depth and aroma to the soup.

3. Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, as well as salt, pepper, and a touch of poultry seasoning, can enhance the flavor profile of the soup.

4. Noodles: Choose any type of noodle that you prefer, such as egg noodles, spaghetti, or any other pasta.

5. Broth: Use chicken broth or stock as the base for the soup. Opt for low-sodium broth to have better control over the soup’s saltiness.

6. Oil: A small amount of oil, such as olive oil, can be used for sautéing the vegetables and chicken.

Equipment

Aside from the Instant Pot, ensure that you have a cutting board, a sharp knife, a ladle, and measuring spoons on hand for a smooth cooking process.

Preparation

Before starting the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients accordingly. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the preparation phase:

Step 1: Chop The Vegetables

Begin by chopping the onions, carrots, and celery into evenly-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, and set the vegetables aside for later use.

Step 2: Season The Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to enhance its flavor before cooking in the Instant Pot.

Step 3: Measure The Ingredients

Measure the chicken broth, noodles, and any additional seasonings or herbs needed for the soup based on the chosen recipe.

With the selection and preparation of ingredients completed, you are now ready to begin the cooking process.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Chicken Noodle Soup

Understanding the cooking times in an Instant Pot is important for achieving the desired texture of the chicken and ensuring that the noodles are perfectly cooked. Here are the general cooking times for making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot:

• Sautéing: 5-7 minutes
• Pressure Cooking (Chicken): 8-10 minutes
• Natural Release (Chicken): 5 minutes
• Pressure Cooking (Noodles): 4-5 minutes
• Quick Release (Noodles): Immediate

It’s important to note that cooking times can vary slightly based on factors such as the specific model of the Instant Pot, altitude, and ingredient quantities. Adjustments may be needed during the cooking process to achieve the desired results.

How To Make Chicken Noodle Soup In Instant Pot

Now that the ingredients are selected, and the Instant Pot cooking times are understood, it’s time to delve into the step-by-step process of making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot.

Step 1: Sauté The Vegetables

1. Turn on the Instant Pot: Select the "Sauté" function on the Instant Pot and allow it to heat up.

2. Add Oil and Vegetables: Once the Instant Pot displays "Hot," add a small amount of oil and sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until they are slightly softened and aromatic.

3. Deglaze the Pot (Optional): If there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, deglaze it with a small amount of chicken broth, scraping off any flavorful remnants.

Step 2: Cook The Chicken

1. Add Seasoned Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the Instant Pot on top of the sautéed vegetables.

2. Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken broth or stock over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring that the liquid covers the ingredients.

3. Secure the Lid: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the "Sealing" position.

4. Pressure Cook: Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the cooking time according to the recipe or general guidelines.

5. Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for the specified time before opening the valve for a quick release.

Step 3: Add Noodles

1. Open the Lid: Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the Instant Pot lid.

2. Switch to Sauté Mode: Select the "Sauté" function again and wait for the broth to come to a gentle boil.

3. Add Noodles: Add the noodles to the pot and cook them in the boiling broth until they reach the desired tenderness, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping.

4. Adjust Seasoning (Optional): Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the desired flavor.

Step 4: Serve And Enjoy

Once the noodles are cooked to perfection, the chicken is tender, and the flavors have melded together, your chicken noodle soup is ready to be served. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Soup Is Too Thin

• Solution: If the soup is thinner than desired, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Then, gradually add the slurry to the soup while stirring constantly until the desired consistency is reached.

Vegetables Are Overcooked

• Solution: To prevent overcooked vegetables, consider adding them after the chicken and allowing them to cook during the second phase when the noodles are being added.

Noodles Are Mushy

• Solution: If the noodles become mushy, reduce the cooking time for the noodles by 1-2 minutes in the next batch. Additionally, consider using slightly undercooked noodles, as they will continue to absorb liquid and soften upon standing.

Making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient process, allowing you to create a comforting and flavorful meal in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop methods. By carefully selecting the right ingredients, understanding the Instant Pot cooking times, and following the step-by-step process, you can achieve a hearty and satisfying chicken noodle soup that will surely become a household favorite. With this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to embark on your journey to creating delicious chicken noodle soup with ease using your Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food loved by many. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for any time of year. Making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot is not only quick and convenient but also allows you to infuse the flavors deeply into the ingredients.

One of the advantages of using an Instant Pot is that it can cook frozen ingredients without the need for defrosting. This is a time-saving feature, especially when you don’t have the luxury of planning ahead or have some leftover frozen chicken to use. Here’s a breakdown of the cook times for frozen chicken noodle soup in your Instant Pot:

1. Start by adding the frozen chicken to the Instant Pot.
2. Add your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, along with herbs and spices for flavor.
3. Pour in the chicken broth or stock, ensuring that it covers the ingredients.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to the "Soup" setting. If your Instant Pot doesn’t have a specific setting for soup, you can use the "Manual/Pressure Cook" setting instead.
5. Set the cooking time to 15-20 minutes on high pressure, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Larger pieces may require a longer cooking time.
6. Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes.
7. After 10 minutes, carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
8. Open the Instant Pot and add your favorite type of noodles, such as egg noodles or spaghetti broken into smaller pieces.
9. Close the lid again and set the Instant Pot to the "Manual/Pressure Cook" setting for the time specified on the noodle package.
10. Once the noodles are cooked, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
11. Open the Instant Pot and give the soup a gentle stir.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

Achieving Perfect Texture

One of the keys to a delicious chicken noodle soup is achieving the perfect texture. The chicken should be tender, the vegetables should be cooked but not mushy, and the noodles should be al dente. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best texture in your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup:

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and is tender throughout.
2. If you prefer larger pieces of chicken in your soup, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
3. Avoid overcooking the vegetables by adding them to the Instant Pot after the chicken has cooked. This will prevent them from becoming mushy.
4. Use the quick release method instead of natural release for the vegetables and noodles. This will stop the cooking process immediately and prevent them from becoming overcooked.
5. If you’re using egg noodles, be sure to follow the package instructions for the cooking time. Overcooking the noodles can result in a mushy texture.

By following these tips, you can ensure that each component of your chicken noodle soup is perfectly cooked and has the ideal texture.

Flavor Infusion

One of the great benefits of using an Instant Pot is its ability to infuse flavors deeply into the ingredients. Here are a few ways you can enhance the flavor of your chicken noodle soup:

1. Sear the chicken before cooking. By browning the chicken in a little oil on the "Sauté" setting in your Instant Pot before adding the other ingredients, you will develop a deeper and richer flavor.
2. Use homemade chicken broth or stock instead of store-bought. Homemade broth adds a depth of flavor that can’t be matched by the packaged versions.
3. Add herbs and spices. Enhance the flavor of your soup by adding garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and other herbs and spices that complement the dish.
4. Use aromatics like onions, celery, and carrots. These ingredients not only add flavor but also contribute to the overall aroma of the soup.
5. Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a few drops of hot sauce just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Remember, the longer you cook the soup in the Instant Pot, the more the flavors will meld together. Allow the ingredients to cook for at least 15-20 minutes on high pressure to ensure that the flavors have fully developed.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Chicken Noodle Soup

While the traditional method of cooking chicken noodle soup in the Instant Pot involves adding all the ingredients at once and letting them cook together, there are alternative methods you can try. These methods may result in slightly different flavors and textures, allowing you to experiment and find your ideal soup:

1. Chicken First Method: Begin by cooking the chicken alone in the Instant Pot using the "Soup" or "Manual/Pressure Cook" setting until it’s tender. Remove the chicken and shred it. Then, add the vegetables, broth, and noodles, and cook for the appropriate time. Finally, add the shredded chicken back to the Instant Pot and heat through.

2. Sautéed Vegetables Method: Heat a little oil in the Instant Pot and sauté the vegetables (onions, carrots, celery) until they begin to soften. This step adds an extra depth of flavor to the soup. Then, add the chicken, broth, and noodles and proceed with the cooking as usual.

3. Two-Step Noodles Method: Cook the chicken, vegetables, and broth together in the Instant Pot using the "Soup" or "Manual/Pressure Cook" setting until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken and shred it. Set the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" setting and bring the broth to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are cooked, add the shredded chicken back to the Instant Pot and heat through.

These alternative cooking methods may require some trial and error to find your preferred flavor profile and texture. Feel free to adjust cooking times and ingredients to suit your taste.

Instant Pot Tips For Chicken Noodle Soup

To ensure a successful and delicious chicken noodle soup in your Instant Pot, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Use quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will yield a better-tasting soup.
2. Do not overfill your Instant Pot. Follow the maximum fill line specified by the manufacturer to avoid any mishaps during cooking.
3. Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for a few minutes before performing a quick release to avoid splattering.
4. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken instead of frozen chicken. Simply add it to the Instant Pot with the other ingredients and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. For a creamier soup, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
6. Experiment with different types of noodles like rice noodles or udon noodles for a unique twist on the classic chicken noodle soup.
7. Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add a vibrant touch and fresh flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and comforting chicken noodle soup in your Instant Pot.

Creative Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipes And Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different with your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup, here are a few creative recipes and variations to consider:

1. Thai Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup: Add coconut milk, ginger, lemongrass, and a splash of fish sauce to your chicken noodle soup for a Thai-inspired twist. Top with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and sliced red chili for an added kick.

2. Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup: Add cumin, chili powder, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to your chicken noodle soup for a Mexican flavor. Top with avocado, shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla strips for a delicious twist.

3. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: Substitute the traditional noodles with orzo pasta and add lemon zest and juice to your soup. The lemon brings a refreshing and bright note to the dish.

4. Italian Chicken Noodle Soup: Add Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and cannellini beans to your chicken noodle soup. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for an Italian-inspired twist.

5. Curry Chicken Noodle Soup: Add curry powder, coconut milk, and a squeeze of lime juice to your chicken noodle soup for a flavorful curry twist. Top with chopped cilantro and toasted coconut flakes for an added burst of flavor.

These creative recipes and variations will allow you to explore different cuisines and customize your chicken noodle soup according to your preferences.

Conclusion

Making chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot is a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy this classic comfort food. By following the cook times for frozen chicken noodle soup, paying attention to achieving perfect texture, infusing flavors, and exploring alternative cooking methods, you can create a delicious and satisfying soup every time. Don’t hesitate to try different variations and recipes to expand your culinary horizons and personalize your chicken noodle soup to your taste.

FAQS

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Chicken Noodle Soup In An Instant Pot?

To make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 8 cups of chicken broth, 1 onion, 3 carrots, 3 celery stalks, 2 cloves of garlic, 2 cups of egg noodles, 1 tablespoon of butter, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

How Long Does It Take To Make Chicken Noodle Soup In An Instant Pot?

It takes approximately 20 minutes to make chicken noodle soup in an Instant Pot, not including the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. However, the cooking time may need to be increased by a few minutes.

What Is The Best Way To Release The Pressure From The Instant Pot?

For this recipe, it is best to do a natural pressure release (NPR). To do this, simply let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the valve to release the remaining pressure.

Can I Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup Made In An Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Once the soup has cooled, you can transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for later. Just make sure to leave some room at the top for expansion. When you are ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.