Go Back

Instant Pot Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made quickly using an Instant Pot, combining tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a nourishing broth. The final dish has a clear, flavorful broth with soft vegetables and juicy chicken, perfect for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts or thighs boneless or bone-in, adjust cooking time accordingly
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 4 cups broth store-bought or homemade low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed, added at the end
  • a handful fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or pressure cooker
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into rough pieces, aiming for bite-sized chunks.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, and once hot, toss in the chopped vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly and your kitchen fills with a fragrant aroma.
  3. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot, along with the broth and dried thyme. Close the lid, ensure the valve is sealed, and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
  4. Once the cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to vent. Remove the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks, then stir the soup to combine all flavors evenly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup for brightness, then sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.
  7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of vegetables and shredded chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or spinach for extra color and nutrients. Adjust seasoning to taste, and for a heartier version, add cooked noodles or rice at the end.