The aroma of chicken broth bubbling away with vegetables has a way of taking me back to family dinners around the table. That’s why I’m excited to share my Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe—a perfect blend of nostalgia and convenience for busy nights. In just under an hour, you’ll have a nourishing bowl of comfort that’s both healthy and quick to prepare. With flavors that warm your heart and ingredients that provide a wholesome boost, this dish is sure to become a go-to. Plus, it’s easily adaptable with vegetarian options, making it a family-friendly favorite for everyone. Are you ready to create this cozy masterpiece that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds?

Why is Chicken Noodle Soup So Comforting?

Warmth embraces your soul: This Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup offers the ultimate cozy experience, delivering comfort in every spoonful.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just one pot, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins—like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Family-Friendly: This nourishing meal is loved by both kids and adults, ensuring everyone gathers around the table.
Health Boosting: Packed with vitamins and quality protein, you’ll feel good serving this wholesome dish. For more delicious ideas, check out our vegetarian soup variations.

Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients

• Explore the wholesome components of this comforting dish!

For the Soup

Chicken Breast – A primary protein; can be substituted with frozen chicken, just adjust cook time accordingly.
Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing aromatics and boosting flavor.
Onions – A base flavor; enhances aroma, and can be replaced with shallots for sweetness.
Garlic – Adds depth to the broth; use fresh cloves or garlic powder in a hurry.
Carrots – Brings natural sweetness and texture; parsnips are a great substitute if desired.
Celery – Contributes a nice crunch and flavor; feel free to omit it if you don’t have any on hand.
Chicken Broth – Forms the heart of the soup; swap it out for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Egg Noodles – Adds heartiness; gluten-free noodles can provide a gluten-free option.
Thyme and Bay Leaves – Essential flavor enhancers; thyme can be substituted with Italian seasoning if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings; always adjust to taste for a personalized twist.
Fresh Parsley – Great for garnishing and adds freshness; swap with green onions for a different flair.
Lemon Juice – Introduces brightness; optional as a finishing touch for added zest.

Now you have all the nutritious ingredients ready to bring comfort and warmth to your kitchen with this Chicken Noodle Soup! Enjoy the cooking journey!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften, filling your kitchen with a delicious aroma that sets the stage for your Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Next, place the chicken breasts on top of the sautéed vegetables in the Instant Pot. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, followed by the thyme and bay leaves. Season the mixture lightly with salt and pepper to enhance flavors. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the broth for even cooking, which is key for a comforting Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 3: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. When the cooking time is complete, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release. This method helps retain moisture in the chicken, making it tender and bursting with flavor once you open the lid, revealing a hearty broth.

Step 4: Shred Chicken
Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands until it’s in bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring it into the savory broth filled with vegetables, bringing those heartwarming flavors together in your Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 5: Cook Noodles
Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté mode again. Add in 2 cups of egg noodles and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together, ensuring you get a comforting and hearty finish to your Chicken Noodle Soup.

Step 6: Finalize Soup
Once the noodles are cooked, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Remove the bay leaves from the pot and serve the warm Chicken Noodle Soup hot. For a refreshing touch, garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, adding brightness to this nourishing dish.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Noodle Soup

Fridge: Keep leftovers refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days, keeping the comforting flavors intact for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezer: Freeze soup in portions without the noodles for up to 3 months. This ensures freshness and prevents mushiness when reheated.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to revitalize the soft noodles and juicy chicken.

Noodle Storage: If you plan to freeze, consider adding noodles only during reheating to maintain their delightful texture in your Chicken Noodle Soup.

What to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Elevate your comforting bowl of soup into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that tease the senses and warm the heart.

Crusty Whole-Grain Bread: A warm, crunchy exterior and soft inside make it perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
Light Garden Salad: Fresh, crisp greens drizzled in a zesty vinaigrette balance the hearty flavors, offering a burst of brightness.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring depth and a slight char that complements the noodles wonderfully.
Savory Cheese Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits with melted cheese add a rich texture, perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice with fresh herbs acts as a comforting side that enhances the wholesome flavors of the soup.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Crunchy on the outside and fluffy inside, these are perfect for adding a contrasting texture to your meal.
Chilled White Wine: A refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp, fruity note that beautifully balances the soup’s savory warmth.
Lemon Bars: For dessert, these tangy treats provide a sweet contrast to the warmth of the soup, delighting the palate with every bite.
Warm Apple Crisp: A sweet, spiced dessert topped with vanilla ice cream creates a cozy end to your meal, echoing the comfort of the soup.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea after dinner helps to digest and adds a calming touch to your satisfying evening.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Frozen Chicken Helpful: If you’re using frozen chicken, just increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes, ensuring the meat remains juicy for your Chicken Noodle Soup.
Vegetarian Twist: Want a veggie version? Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth, keeping the comfort factor intact!
Noodle Timing: Avoid pressure cooking the noodles. Add them just before serving to keep their texture delightful and soft in your Chicken Noodle Soup.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days; the soup also freezes wonderfully without the noodles for future comforting meals.
Taste Adjustments: Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for that zesty finish to your Chicken Noodle Soup.

Chicken Noodle Soup Variations

Feel free to customize this Chicken Noodle Soup recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth to keep it hearty and satisfying.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles instead of egg noodles, ensuring everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl without worry.
Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding peas, spinach, or bell peppers for a colorful twist that increases freshness.
Herb Swap: Switch thyme with rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile that elevates the comforting notes of the soup.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
Creamy Variation: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, velvety broth that feels indulgent.
Lemon Zest: Include fresh lemon zest along with the juice for an uplifting brightness that complements the savory depth of the soup.
Asian Flair: Incorporate shreaded ginger and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist that warms both body and soul.

Explore these variations to create your own signature Chicken Noodle Soup that your family will adore! And if you’re looking for more ideas, check out our lovely guide on vegetarian soup variations for even more delightful options.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, keeping them fresh while saving valuable prep time. Additionally, you can season the chicken and keep it marinated in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking, enhancing the flavors even more. When it’s time to enjoy the soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables and continue with the cooking process as outlined. Finish by adding the noodles in the last few minutes of cooking for perfectly tender bites, ensuring your soup is just as delicious as if made from scratch on the day!

Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for the soup?
Absolutely! Look for fresh chicken breasts that are pink with no dark spots or discoloration. If you’re opting for frozen chicken, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. The more flavorful the chicken, the richer your soup will be!

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken noodle soup?
Very simply! Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s that easy! Just make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing it up to keep those comforting flavors fresh for your next meal.

Can I freeze my chicken noodle soup?
Definitely! This soup freezes beautifully. I recommend freezing without the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. Portion the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

What if my chicken noodle soup feels too salty?
No worries, we’ve all been there! If your soup turns out saltier than desired, add some additional diced vegetables or a potato to help absorb the excess salt. Just let it simmer for a bit longer. If you’re looking for a fresh touch, adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also help brighten the flavors while balancing the saltiness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for pets or allergies?
Great question! It’s best to avoid feeding your soup to your pets, especially if it contains onions or garlic, as these can be harmful. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be sure to check labels on chicken broth and seasonings, as they can sometimes contain hidden allergens. Always adjust ingredients to suit dietary restrictions!

Can I modify the recipe to make it vegetarian or gluten-free?
You bet! To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For gluten-free options, swap regular egg noodles with gluten-free noodles. Make sure to check that all ingredients meet your dietary needs, and enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!