Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a savory broth. This one-pot meal is the epitome of convenience, as it takes minimal effort and time while delivering maximum flavor. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and the noodles absorb all the rich flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and perfectly cooked noodles creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. Plus, with the Instant Pot, you can whip this dish up in no time—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a family-friendly meal, appealing to both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to option for busy families.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They can elevate the taste of your dish significantly.
- Sautéing First: Take a few minutes to sauté the chicken and onions before pressure cooking. This step adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Adjust the Liquid: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of broth slightly. If you like it soupy, feel free to add a bit more.
- Noodle Type: Opt for egg noodles for the best texture. They cook quickly and complement the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components of this recipe in advance. Chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also season your chicken and refrigerate it overnight to enhance the flavors. The broth can be made ahead and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, everything will be prepped, and you can quickly assemble the dish.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate frozen peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a creamy version of this dish.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Just simmer everything in a large pot, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
How to Serve
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles in deep bowls to showcase the hearty broth and noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper on top adds a touch of elegance. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your dish, pair it with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with vinaigrette works beautifully. For dessert, consider a light fruit salad or a slice of lemon cake to cleanse the palate after this rich meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit any dairy products and use coconut milk or nut milk instead. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular noodles with gluten-free pasta. To make it vegan, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, add seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes. In the spring, consider incorporating fresh peas and asparagus for a lighter touch. Use dried herbs in winter months when fresh options are limited, and always adjust your vegetable choices based on what’s fresh and in season.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
2. What if I don’t have egg noodles? You can substitute with any type of pasta, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I double this recipe? Yes, but avoid filling the pot beyond the maximum fill line. You may need to cook in batches.
4. How do I prevent the burn notice? Ensure that you have enough liquid in the pot and scrape the bottom well after sautéing.
How To Make instant pot chicken and noodles
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a savory broth.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pot. Add the remaining chicken broth, carrots, egg noodles, thyme, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Shred Chicken: Open the lid, and remove the chicken. Shred it with two forks and return it to the pot. Stir everything well and season to taste.
- Serve: Dish out the chicken and noodles into bowls, garnish, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 400Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 167mgSodium 1227mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 34g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is a delightful, comforting recipe that is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or simply when you need a warm bowl of goodness. The versatility of this dish allows for numerous adaptations, so you can make it your own. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you might just find it becoming a favorite in your home! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!