(GUIDE) How To Cook Chicken Soup In Pressure Cooker?

Chicken soup is a popular and comforting dish that is loved by many. Traditionally, it is slow-cooked over the stovetop to allow all the flavors to meld together. However, if you’re short on time, using a pressure cooker can significantly speed up the cooking process while still creating a delicious and flavorful soup. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking chicken soup in a pressure cooker. We will cover everything from preparation to optimal cook times and troubleshooting, as well as variations and flavoring options to suit your taste preferences.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Chicken Soup In Pressure Cooker

The cooking time for chicken soup in a pressure cooker typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes under high pressure. However, this can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific pressure cooker you are using. It is important to consult your pressure cooker’s manual for recommended cook times based on the weight and type of meat you are using. Additionally, the cooking time may differ if you choose to cook your soup on low pressure instead of high pressure.

Preparation

Before you start cooking chicken soup in a pressure cooker, there are some essential preparation steps to ensure a successful and flavorful outcome.

1. Selecting Chicken: Choose chicken pieces with bones and skin intact, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks. The bones and skin add depth of flavor to the soup. You can use a whole chicken, quartered chicken, or bone-in chicken parts, depending on your preference.

2. Trimming and Cleaning: Trim excess fat from the chicken pieces. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps remove any impurities and prevents the soup from becoming greasy.

3. Prepping Vegetables: Prepare the vegetables you want to include in your chicken soup. Common vegetables used in chicken soup include onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Dice or chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

4. Herbs and Seasonings: Gather the herbs and seasonings you intend to use. Popular choices for chicken soup include bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the flavors according to your preference.

Pressure Cooker Basics For Chicken Soup

To cook chicken soup in a pressure cooker, it is crucial to understand the basic principles of pressure cooking. Here’s what you need to know:

1. The Pressure Release Valve: The pressure release valve is a crucial component of the pressure cooker. It controls the release of excess pressure in the cooker when cooking is complete. Depending on the specific type of pressure cooker you have, the valve may have different settings, such as a quick-release or a natural-release option.

2. Liquid Requirements: It is important to add enough liquid to the pressure cooker to generate steam and create the desired pressure. In the case of chicken soup, water or chicken broth is typically used as the base liquid. The general rule of thumb is to use enough liquid to cover the ingredients.

3. Pressure Levels: Most pressure cookers offer two pressure levels: low pressure and high pressure. High pressure is commonly used for cooking chicken soup and other dishes that require shorter cooking times. However, if you prefer a gentler cooking method, you can opt for low pressure, which may require slightly longer cooking times.

4. Timing: Cooking times can vary depending on the pressure cooker you are using, the size of the chicken pieces, and the specific recipe. It is essential to consult your pressure cooker’s manual for the recommended cook times, as this will ensure that your chicken soup is cooked to perfection.

Cook Times For Chicken Soup In Pressure Cooker

The cooking times for chicken soup in a pressure cooker can vary based on various factors, including the size of the chicken pieces, the pressure level used, and the specific pressure cooker model. However, here are some general guidelines:

1. Boneless Chicken: If you are using boneless chicken pieces, such as boneless chicken breasts or boneless thighs, the cooking time under high pressure is around 8 to 10 minutes.

2. Bone-in Chicken: For bone-in chicken pieces like chicken thighs or drumsticks, the cooking time under high pressure is typically around 15 to 20 minutes.

Remember, these times are approximate, and it is essential to consult your pressure cooker’s manual for precise cooking times. Also, keep in mind that if you choose to cook your chicken soup on low pressure, it may require slightly longer cooking times.

How To Cook Chicken Soup In Pressure Cooker

Now that you’ve prepared the ingredients and have a basic understanding of pressure cooker cooking, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking chicken soup in a pressure cooker.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 pounds of chicken pieces with bones and skin
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• A handful of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6-8 cups of chicken broth or water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your pressure cooker by selecting the sauté setting. Add a small amount of oil, such as olive oil, to the pot.

2. Once the oil is heated, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

3. Add the chicken pieces to the pressure cooker, followed by the bay leaves and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Pour in the chicken broth or water, ensuring that the liquid covers the ingredients.

5. Securely lock the lid of the pressure cooker in place, making sure the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position.

6. Set the pressure cooker to high pressure and adjust the cooking time according to the size and type of chicken pieces you are using. Refer to your pressure cooker’s manual for recommended cooking times.

7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick-release by manually moving the pressure release valve to the venting position. Make sure to follow the safety precautions outlined in your pressure cooker’s manual.

8. Once the pressure has completely released and it is safe to open the pressure cooker, remove the lid and discard the bay leaves and any herb stems.

9. Use tongs to remove the chicken pieces from the pot and place them on a cutting board or plate. Remove the bones and skin if desired, and shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

10. Place the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir to combine.

11. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add additional salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor.

12. Serve the chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Optimal Pressure Cooking Techniques For Chicken Soup

To ensure the best results when cooking chicken soup in a pressure cooker, here are some additional tips and techniques:

1. Layering Flavors: For an extra boost of flavor, consider browning the chicken pieces before adding them to the pressure cooker. This step can be done using the sauté function of the pressure cooker. Browning the chicken adds depth and richness to the soup.

2. Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing the vegetables and chicken, deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, and scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. This will prevent the possibility of the pressure cooker emitting a burn notice.

3. Using Homemade Chicken Broth: If you have homemade chicken broth, it will enhance the flavor of your soup even more. You can use it instead of store-bought broth or combine them for added richness.

4. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables in your chicken soup. Additions like potatoes, peas, corn, or spinach can provide additional flavors and textures.

5. Time-saving Tips: Using a pressure cooker already saves time, but if you’re really short on time, you can use pre-cut vegetables or even frozen mixed vegetables to make the prep work even easier.

6. Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix cornstarch or flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry and add it to the soup. Allow the soup to come to a boil, and it will thicken as it simmers.

Troubleshooting

While pressure cooking chicken soup is generally a straightforward process, here are a few common issues you may encounter and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Burn Notice: If your pressure cooker displays a burn notice, it means that the bottom of the pot is overheating. This can happen if there isn’t enough liquid in the cooker or if food is stuck to the bottom. To fix this, carefully release the pressure, open the cooker, add more liquid if necessary, stir the contents, and reseal the cooker. Restart the cooking process with adjusted liquid levels.

2. Release of Excess Starch: Sometimes, when cooking soups or stews in a pressure cooker, the release of pressure can cause starches from ingredients like potatoes or pasta to thicken the liquid excessively. To avoid this issue, you can cook these starchy ingredients separately and add them to the soup after pressure cooking.

3. Overcooked Chicken: If you find that your chicken is overcooked and becomes dry or tough, try reducing the cooking time by a few minutes. It is always better to slightly undercook the chicken and allow it to finish cooking in the residual heat.

Variations And Flavoring Options

While the classic chicken soup recipe is always delicious, there are numerous ways to add variety and customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for variations and flavoring options:

1. Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance the taste of your chicken soup. Consider adding herbs like basil, oregano, or dill for a fresh twist. Spices like cumin, paprika, or turmeric can add depth and unique flavors.

2. Asian-Inspired Flavors: For an Asian-inspired chicken soup, add ingredients like ginger, lemongrass, soy sauce, fish sauce, and star anise. This will give your soup a delicious and fragrant profile.

3. Creamy Chicken Soup: Add a creamy touch to your chicken soup by stirring in a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of the cooking process.

4. Vegetarian/Vegan Options: If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the chicken and replace it with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or seitan. You can also add a variety of vegetables and legumes to create a hearty and nutritious soup.

5. Roasting Vegetables: Consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pressure cooker for a more complex and caramelized flavor.

6. Customize with Toppings: When serving your chicken soup, allow your creativity to shine by adding toppings like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, croutons, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.

By exploring these variations and flavoring options, you can take your chicken soup to the next level and create a unique dish that will satisfy your taste buds.

In conclusion, cooking chicken soup in a pressure cooker is a time-saving method that still allows you to create a delicious and flavorful meal. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, you can have a hearty bowl of chicken soup on the table in no time. Experiment with different variations and flavors to create a soup that suits your preferences, and enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of a homemade meal.

FAQS

Can I Use Frozen Chicken To Make Chicken Soup In A Pressure Cooker?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It will take longer for the pressure cooker to reach pressure and for the chicken to cook through.

How Much Liquid Do I Need To Add To The Pressure Cooker For Making Chicken Soup?

A general rule is to add about 1-2 cups of liquid, such as broth or water, to the pressure cooker. This is important for creating enough steam and pressure to cook the chicken and other ingredients.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Chicken Soup In The Pressure Cooker?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, and potatoes to the chicken soup. It is recommended to chop them into small pieces to prevent them from becoming too mushy during the cooking process.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Chicken Soup In A Pressure Cooker?

The cooking time for chicken soup in a pressure cooker can vary, but it usually takes about 20-30 minutes for the chicken to cook through. However, this may vary depending on the type of pressure cooker and the amount of ingredients being used.

Can I Add Noodles Or Rice To The Chicken Soup While Cooking It In A Pressure Cooker?

It is not recommended to add noodles or rice to the pressure cooker while cooking the chicken soup. These ingredients can become overcooked and mushy. Instead, cook them separately and add them to the soup after it has finished cooking in the pressure cooker.