Chicken soup is a timeless classic that is loved by many. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a comforting meal, chicken soup is the perfect go-to dish. With the help of an instant pot, you can make delicious chicken soup in a fraction of the time it takes to cook it on the stovetop.
An instant pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that has gained popularity in recent years. It is known for its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently. When it comes to making chicken soup, using an instant pot can help infuse the flavors and tenderize the meat in a shorter time compared to traditional cooking methods.
So, how long should you cook chicken soup in an instant pot? The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the desired tenderness. However, a general guideline is to cook the soup on high pressure for about 6 to 8 minutes per pound of chicken. This should ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
It’s important to note that the cooking time will also depend on the additional ingredients you add to the soup, such as vegetables and rice. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.
Once the cooking time is up, it’s important to let the pressure release naturally for about 10 to 15 minutes before opening the instant pot. This will help the flavors meld together and the chicken to continue cooking in its residual heat. After releasing the pressure, your chicken soup is ready to be enjoyed!
With an instant pot, you can enjoy a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Its convenience and efficiency make it a valuable tool for any home cook. So, next time you’re in the mood for some comforting chicken soup, give your instant pot a go!
Chicken Soup in Instant Pot: Cooking Time and Tips
Chicken soup is a comforting and delicious dish that can be easily cooked in an Instant Pot. This handy kitchen appliance reduces cooking time and allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Here are some tips and the recommended cooking time for making chicken soup in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken pieces (bone-in for added flavor)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot and add the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the pot.
- Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the steam release handle is set to the sealing position.
- Select the “Soup” setting and set the cooking time to 20 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release by turning the steam release handle to the venting position.
- Gently remove the chicken pieces from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Remove the bay leaf from the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the chicken soup hot and enjoy!
Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. It is always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Instant Pot model.
Chicken soup made in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to enjoy a homemade meal. The pressure cooking method allows the flavors to develop in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop cooking. Plus, the tender and juicy chicken adds protein and a comforting texture to the soup. So grab your Instant Pot and start making a warm bowl of chicken soup today!
Preparing the Ingredients for Chicken Soup
Before you can start cooking chicken soup in your Instant Pot, it’s important to gather and prepare all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 8 cups of chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to prepare them for cooking.
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel and slice the carrots, slice the celery stalks, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- Next, prepare the whole chicken. Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity of the chicken. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into pieces, such as legs, wings, and breasts, to help it cook faster and more evenly.
- In the Instant Pot, select the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken and adds depth to the soup.
- Once the chicken is browned, add the sliced carrots and celery, chicken broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the sealing position. Select the soup function and set the cooking time to 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the pressure release valve to the venting position.
- Remove the lid and skim off any excess fat or impurities from the surface of the soup. Taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary.
- Your chicken soup is now ready to be served hot. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, if desired.
By following these simple steps, you can prepare all the ingredients for chicken soup in your Instant Pot and have a delicious and comforting meal ready in no time.
Setting Up the Instant Pot for Cooking
Before you start cooking chicken soup in an Instant Pot, you need to make sure your appliance is properly set up and ready to go. Here’s how to do it:
1. Inspect the Instant Pot: Check for any defects or damages on the pot, lid, and sealing ring. Make sure everything is clean and in good condition.
2. Install the sealing ring: Place the sealing ring on the inside of the lid, making sure it fits snugly in the groove. This will create a tight seal during cooking.
3. Attach the lid: Align the lid with the Instant Pot and turn it clockwise until it locks into place. Ensure that the lid is securely attached before continuing.
4. Place the inner pot: Insert the inner pot into the Instant Pot base. Make sure it is positioned correctly and rests securely on the heating element.
5. Add ingredients: Add your chicken, vegetables, spices, and any other ingredients required for your chicken soup recipe into the inner pot.
6. Measure liquid: Refer to your recipe to determine the amount of liquid needed for your chicken soup. Pour the specified amount of broth, water, or stock into the inner pot.
7. Close the vent: Move the steam release handle to the “Sealing” position. This will ensure that pressure builds up inside the pot during cooking.
8. Select the cooking program: Depending on your Instant Pot model, choose the appropriate cooking program for chicken soup. This could be “Soup,” “Poultry,” or “Manual” mode.
9. Set the cooking time: Use the “+” and “-” buttons on the control panel to adjust the cooking time. Follow your recipe’s instructions for the recommended cooking time.
10. Start cooking: Once you have set the cooking time, press the “Start” button to begin the pressure cooking process. The Instant Pot will start building up pressure and cooking the chicken soup.
Now that your Instant Pot is set up properly, you can sit back and let it do its magic. Soon enough, you’ll have a delicious and comforting chicken soup ready to be enjoyed!
Cooking the Chicken Soup in the Instant Pot
When it comes to cooking chicken soup in the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious and flavorful meal on the table in no time. The Instant Pot is a multipurpose electric pressure cooker that can significantly speed up the cooking process.
To begin, you will need to gather the ingredients for your chicken soup. This can include chicken pieces, vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions, herbs and spices, and chicken broth or stock.
Once you have your ingredients prepared, you can start cooking. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the vegetables and gathering the spices you plan to use. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add some oil and sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Spices
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sprinkle the spices over the top. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and vegetables with the spices.
Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth or stock into the Instant Pot. Make sure to not exceed the maximum fill line indicated on the pot.
Step 5: Cook the Soup
Put the lid on the Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Soup” function and set the cooking time according to the recipe or approximately 8-10 minutes for chicken soup.
Step 6: Natural Release
Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully switch the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chicken soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs or serve with crusty bread on the side.
The Instant Pot makes cooking chicken soup quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal with minimal effort.
Q&A
How long should I cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time for chicken soup in an Instant Pot can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the desired doneness. Generally, you should cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot for about 15-20 minutes on high pressure.
Is it safe to cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, it is safe to cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and eliminates any bacteria or pathogens that may be present.
Can I cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot for chicken soup?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot to make chicken soup. However, the cooking time will be longer compared to using thawed or fresh chicken. You should cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot for about 20-25 minutes on high pressure.
How do I know if the chicken in the soup is cooked through?
To check if the chicken in the soup is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the chicken should be tender and easily shred when cooked.
Can I cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot with bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can cook chicken soup in an Instant Pot with bone-in chicken. The cooking time for bone-in chicken may be slightly longer compared to boneless chicken to ensure that the meat is cooked through. You should cook bone-in chicken soup in an Instant Pot for about 20-25 minutes on high pressure.