Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup: A Comforting Meal in Minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup is a lifesaver on those cold, dreary days when all you want is a warm, comforting meal. The Instant Pot makes this classic soup incredibly easy to prepare, and it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a breeze. Just imagine the aroma of simmering chicken and rice, the comforting broth, and the satisfying crunch of fresh herbs – it’s a symphony of flavors that will warm your soul.
This soup is a versatile canvas for creativity. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and spices. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice, making it a budget-friendly option. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and ready in under an hour. The Instant Pot does all the work, so you can relax and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen.
Ingredients
The ingredients for this soup are simple and likely already in your pantry.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions, Instant pot chicken and rice soup
Making this soup is a breeze, thanks to the Instant Pot.
Instant Pot chicken and rice soup is a real comfort food, especially when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. For a bit of extra oomph, I love adding in some homemade sweet Italian sausage, either mild or hot, depending on my mood.
You can find a fantastic recipe for this sausage here , and it makes all the difference in adding a rich, savory depth to the soup. The sausage cooks up beautifully in the Instant Pot, adding a wonderful aroma and texture to the final dish.
- Turn the Instant Pot to the Saute setting and heat the olive oil. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the chicken broth, rice, diced tomatoes, and cooked chicken. Stir to combine.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
- Carefully release any remaining pressure. Stir in the peas.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips for making the best Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as corn, green beans, or potatoes.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the Instant Pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then shred the chicken before adding the peas.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information per serving (assuming 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Protein | 20g |
Variations
The beauty of this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, proteins, or spices. Let’s explore some exciting variations that will tantalize your taste buds.
Variations for a Flavorful Twist
Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, adding depth and complexity to the original recipe.
My Instant Pot chicken and rice soup is a real crowd-pleaser, especially on chilly nights. It’s simple, comforting, and always hits the spot. Speaking of comfort food, I recently discovered a recipe for Chef John’s Cincinnati-style chili that I’m dying to try! I think it would be a perfect pairing with the soup, offering a spicy counterpoint to the creamy broth.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken and Rice Soup:This variation features a rich and savory tomato flavor with a creamy texture. The addition of diced tomatoes and a touch of cream adds a vibrant red hue and a smooth, velvety consistency. The key ingredients include diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
The flavor profile is characterized by a sweet and tangy tomato base with a creamy richness.
- Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup:This variation brings a fiery kick to the classic recipe. The addition of jalapeños, chili powder, and cayenne pepper creates a spicy and aromatic soup. The key ingredients include jalapeños, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a dash of cumin for an earthy flavor.
Sometimes, I crave a hearty bowl of Instant Pot chicken and rice soup, but other times, I’m in the mood for something crispy and flavorful. That’s when I turn to these amazing vegan air fryer taquitos , which are packed with plant-based goodness and satisfying crunch.
But, no matter what I’m craving, there’s always room for a warm, comforting bowl of Instant Pot chicken and rice soup in my life. It’s just that good!
The flavor profile is characterized by a spicy heat with a hint of smokiness.
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:This variation offers a nutty and earthy flavor with a unique texture. The addition of wild rice adds a chewy and slightly nutty flavor, complementing the chicken and vegetables. The key ingredients include wild rice, vegetable broth, and a sprinkle of dried herbs.
The flavor profile is characterized by a nutty and earthy taste with a subtle sweetness.
- Chicken and Rice Soup with Lemon and Herbs:This variation adds a refreshing and bright flavor with a touch of citrus. The addition of lemon juice and fresh herbs like parsley and dill creates a light and aromatic soup. The key ingredients include lemon juice, fresh parsley, dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
The flavor profile is characterized by a bright and tangy lemon flavor with a fresh herbal aroma.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Tomato Chicken and Rice Soup | Diced tomatoes, heavy cream, sugar | Sweet and tangy tomato base with a creamy richness |
| Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup | Jalapeños, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin | Spicy heat with a hint of smokiness |
| Chicken and Wild Rice Soup | Wild rice, vegetable broth, dried herbs | Nutty and earthy taste with a subtle sweetness |
| Chicken and Rice Soup with Lemon and Herbs | Lemon juice, fresh parsley, dill, salt, pepper | Bright and tangy lemon flavor with a fresh herbal aroma |
Serving Suggestions
This hearty and comforting Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a more elaborate dinner party, there are plenty of serving suggestions to suit your taste.
Serving the Soup
The beauty of this soup is its adaptability. It can be served as is, or enhanced with various toppings and accompaniments. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty Bread:A classic pairing, crusty bread provides a satisfying texture contrast and soaks up the delicious broth. Choose a rustic sourdough or a hearty baguette for the best results.
- Dollop of Sour Cream:A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness and tangy flavor to the soup. Use full-fat sour cream for the best taste and texture.
- Sprinkle of Fresh Herbs:Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill add a burst of freshness and aroma to the soup. Use a generous sprinkle for a vibrant touch.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese:A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory and salty flavor to the soup. Choose a high-quality Parmesan for the best taste.
Pairing the Soup with Side Dishes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup is a complete meal in itself, but it can also be paired with various side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying culinary experience. Here are some suggestions:
| Side Dish | Visual Description | Taste Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Green Salad | A fresh and vibrant salad with mixed greens, vegetables, and a light vinaigrette dressing. | Provides a refreshing contrast to the warm and comforting soup. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Assortment of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, seasoned with herbs and spices. | Adds a depth of flavor and texture to the meal. |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter and herbs. | A classic and flavorful accompaniment that complements the soup. |
| Fruit Salad | A medley of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, with a light honey dressing. | Provides a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savory soup. |
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Instant Pot chicken and rice soup is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of cooking. Properly storing and reheating your soup will ensure it remains flavorful and safe to eat.
Storing Leftover Soup
Storing leftover soup correctly is crucial to maintaining its quality and safety. To prevent bacterial growth, it’s essential to cool the soup quickly and store it in an airtight container.
- Cool the soup rapidly: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator. You can do this by transferring the soup into a shallow container or placing it in an ice bath.
- Use an airtight container: Store the soup in an airtight container to prevent air exposure and moisture loss. This helps maintain the soup’s flavor and texture.
- Refrigerate promptly: Place the cooled soup in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures the soup remains safe to eat.
Reheating Leftover Soup
Reheating your soup is simple and can be done using various methods. The key is to reheat it thoroughly to kill any potential bacteria and maintain its delicious flavor.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer. Continue to cook for a few minutes to ensure the soup is heated through.
- Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. The heating time will vary depending on the quantity of soup.
Changes in Consistency and Taste After Reheating
While reheating, the consistency of the soup may slightly thicken, especially if it contains starches like rice. This is due to the starch molecules absorbing water during the heating process. The flavor of the soup may also become slightly more concentrated after reheating.
