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Instant Pot Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, combining tender chicken breasts or thighs with aromatic vegetables and herbs. The pressure cooker concentrates flavors quickly, resulting in a comforting, clear broth with shredded chicken and fresh herbs, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts or thighs lean and tender, thighs more flavorful
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs parsley, dill, or thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed, added at the end

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or pressure cooker
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Gather all your ingredients and tools to start. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince the garlic, setting everything aside for easy access.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a splash of oil, then cook the diced onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are tender and aromatic, about 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chicken breasts or thighs. Season with salt, pepper, and toss in the bay leaf. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
  5. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure for 10 minutes, then start the cooking cycle. Once done, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully opening the lid.
  6. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the broth.
  7. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Give the soup a final stir, then ladle it into bowls. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side for a cozy, nourishing meal.

Notes

For an extra hearty soup, add cooked noodles or rice after shredding the chicken. To keep the broth clear, skim off any excess oil after cooking if needed.