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If you’ve ever found yourself starving after a long day but too tired to spend hours in the kitchen, then you know the value of a meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. Enter Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup. This comforting, flavorful dish can be made in a fraction of the time compared to traditional soup recipes, and it’s perfect for any busy lifestyle. With just a few simple ingredients and a couple of steps, you can have a healthy, hearty bowl of soup ready in under 30 minutes.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the best Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup, from the ingredients to the step-by-step process. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will become your go-to for a quick and nutritious meal. Let’s get started!
Why Choose Instant Pot for Chicken Vegetable Soup?
You may wonder why an Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is the best tool for this soup. There are plenty of cooking methods out there, but the Instant Pot takes the lead in terms of speed, convenience, and flavor retention. Here’s why:
1. Time-Saving
The Instant Pot is known for its ability to drastically reduce cooking times without sacrificing flavor. Traditional chicken vegetable soups usually require long simmering times to develop a rich, deep flavor, but with an Instant Pot, you can achieve this in just 10 minutes of pressure cooking.
2. One-Pot Convenience
Gone are the days of washing a stack of pots and pans. The Instant Pot does it all: you can sauté, cook, and even keep your soup warm, all in one place. This makes cleanup a breeze and minimizes the mess in your kitchen.
3. Flavorful Results
Unlike stovetop cooking, where you might need to carefully monitor the heat to prevent overcooking or burning, the Instant Pot locks in the flavors by using pressure. The result? A rich, savory soup with all the flavors intensified, just like a soup that’s been simmering all day.
4. Perfect for Busy Days
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, the Instant Pot lets you prepare a healthy, homemade meal without spending hours on preparation or cooking time. When you’re pressed for time, this is the solution you need.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
The key to a great soup is using fresh, quality ingredients. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup, with quantities that serve 4 to 6 people.
Table: Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Boneless chicken breast | 2 lbs | Diced or whole pieces |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Chopped |
| Celery | 2 stalks | Chopped |
| Onion | 1 small | Chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low sodium preferred |
| Potatoes | 2 medium | Diced |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup | Or fresh peas |
| Bay leaves | 2 leaves | |
| Thyme (dried or fresh) | 1 tsp | |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits-Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup:
- Boneless chicken breast provides lean protein, making the soup filling and nutritious.
- Carrots, celery, and onions add not only flavor but also a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins.
- Chicken broth serves as the base for your soup, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. Opting for low-sodium broth is a healthier choice, giving you more control over the salt content.
- Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Once you have all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these easy steps to make your Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the chicken: If you’re using whole chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make the soup easier to eat.
- Chop the vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots, dice the potatoes into small cubes, and chop the celery and onion. Don’t forget to mince the garlic—this step helps release the rich aroma and flavor of the garlic into your soup.
- Measure out the broth: Have your chicken broth ready to go.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Turn your Instant Pot to Saute mode.
- Add a tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred oil) to the pot.
- Once the oil is hot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Saute them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they begin to soften. The vegetables should be aromatic and slightly tender but not overcooked.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth
- Add the diced chicken to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes. This step helps the chicken sear and lock in some flavor before pressure cooking.
- Now, pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the potatoes, frozen peas, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning later if needed.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is set to “Sealing.”
- Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release the pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release to let out the remaining steam.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Open the lid carefully, and stir the soup to combine all the ingredients.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
While the recipe itself is simple, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.
1. Customize the Vegetables
The beauty of this soup is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you prefer. Try adding zucchini, corn, or green beans, or use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
2. Use Bone-In Chicken
For an even richer broth, consider using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. These will take slightly longer to cook (about 15 minutes in the Instant Pot), but the bones add extra flavor and nutrients to the broth. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.
3. Make It Creamy
If you prefer a creamy chicken vegetable soup, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream after the soup has finished cooking. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture.
4. Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
While dried thyme and bay leaves work well, fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or basil can elevate the flavor. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their freshness.
Nutritional Information for Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
This Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is a wholesome meal that checks all the boxes: low-calorie, high-protein, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional benefits:
- Calories: Approximately 250–300 per serving (depending on specific ingredients)
- Protein: 30–35 grams per serving (thanks to the chicken)
- Fiber: 4–6 grams per serving (from the vegetables)
- Carbs: 20–25 grams per serving (from potatoes and other vegetables)
This soup is ideal for those on a healthy eating plan, and it’s a great option for meal prep. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup
Q: How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup?
It takes around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, 10 minutes to cook in the Instant Pot, and an additional 5 minutes for pressure release. Overall, the entire process takes about 25–30 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe. Just add an additional 5 minutes to the pressure cooking time (15 minutes total), and ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple sandwich. It’s a filling meal on its own, but these sides can add extra variety.
Conclusion: A Quick, Healthy Meal for Any Day
With Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup, you can enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal in a fraction of the time it would take to make traditional soup. It’s packed with protein, vegetables, and flavors, making it a perfect choice for anyone on the go. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just need a quick lunch, this recipe delivers everything you need in one easy step. So go ahead, fire up your Instant Pot, and treat yourself to a comforting bowl of soup in no time!
Ready to make your own Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup? Grab your ingredients and get cooking!