Introduction
Are you craving a comforting and delicious bowl of chicken soup, but don’t have hours to spend simmering it on the stove? Look no further than your electric pressure cooker! This modern kitchen appliance is a game-changer when it comes to making quick and flavorful meals, and chicken soup is no exception.
Chicken soup is a classic favorite that not only warms the soul but also provides hearty nutrition. Packed with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, it’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. And with the help of an electric pressure cooker, you can have a homemade batch of chicken soup ready to enjoy in a fraction of the time.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker. We’ll cover everything from preparing the chicken to adding the perfect blend of seasonings and cooking it to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned pro with your pressure cooker or a newbie looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, dust off that electric pressure cooker and get ready to whip up a batch of homemade chicken soup that is flavorful, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Before diving into the process of making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 8 ounces of egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients create a flavorful base for your chicken soup, but feel free to customize it according to your preferences. You can add additional vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach, or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker. Get your taste buds ready for a mouthwatering soup that will warm you from the inside out!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
The first step in making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker is to prepare the chicken. Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs. Then, season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
To infuse the chicken with even more flavor, you can also add spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Rub the spices onto the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
Next, set your electric pressure cooker to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pot and sear it on both sides until it develops a golden-brown color. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the soup.
Once the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the pressure cooker and set it aside momentarily. It’s now time to move on to the next step—sautéing the vegetables!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
After preparing the chicken, it’s time to sauté the vegetables to enhance the flavors in your chicken soup. With the electric pressure cooker still on the sauté function, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly softened. Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
The combination of onions, carrots, and celery, known as mirepoix, forms the flavor base of many classic soups and stews. It adds a savory depth and sweetness to your soup, making it even more delicious.
As the vegetables start to soften, they release their natural juices, which combine with the caramelized bits from searing the chicken. This process, known as deglazing, adds complexity and richness to the flavors of your soup.
Once the vegetables are sautéed to perfection, move on to the next step—adding the seasonings and herbs that will infuse your chicken soup with aromatic deliciousness!
Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Herbs
Now that the vegetables are sautéed, it’s time to add a delightful blend of seasonings and herbs to elevate the flavor profile of your chicken soup.
Start by adding the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. These herbs add a wonderful earthy and aromatic note to the soup, creating a savory and comforting experience.
The combination of thyme and rosemary perfectly complements the chicken and vegetables, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor. The bay leaf brings a subtle, herbal essence to the soup.
You can customize the seasonings based on your personal preferences. Feel free to add other herbs like parsley, oregano, or basil to enhance the flavor further.
After adding the seasonings and herbs, give everything a gentle stir to distribute the flavors evenly. The aroma of the herbs mixing with the sautéed vegetables will make your kitchen smell absolutely amazing!
Now that the seasonings and herbs are added, it’s time to move on to the next step—adding the chicken and liquid to create the base of your chicken soup.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Liquid
With the seasonings and herbs blended in, it’s time to add the chicken and the liquid that will serve as the flavorful base for your chicken soup.
Place the seared chicken pieces back into the electric pressure cooker, nestling them among the sautéed vegetables and herbs. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed for even cooking.
Next, pour in the chicken broth, which will provide the rich and savory liquid base for the soup. The broth adds depth of flavor and ensures that every spoonful of soup is bursting with taste.
Make sure that the chicken is submerged in the liquid, but do not exceed the maximum fill line of the electric pressure cooker. It’s important to not overfill the cooker to allow for proper pressurization during the cooking process.
At this point, you can also adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Be mindful that the broth itself may already contain some sodium, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
Once the chicken and liquid are added, give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients. The aromatic blend of flavors is now ready to be pressure cooked to perfection!
Now that the chicken and liquid are added, it’s time to move on to the next step—setting the electric pressure cooker.
Step 5: Set the Electric Pressure Cooker
Setting the electric pressure cooker is a crucial step in preparing your chicken soup. This ensures that the soup is cooked to perfection, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.
First, secure the lid of the electric pressure cooker, making sure it is tightly sealed. Set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position to allow pressure to build up during cooking.
Next, select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting on your electric pressure cooker. Adjust the cooking time to approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
It’s important to note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your electric pressure cooker. Consult your cooker’s manual for specific instructions.
Once the cooking time is set, allow the electric pressure cooker to come to pressure. This process may take a few minutes, during which the cooker will build up steam and pressure.
Once the cooker has reached full pressure, the cooking time will begin to count down. It’s important to avoid opening the lid during cooking, as this will release the pressure and prolong the cooking time.
While your chicken soup is cooking, take this time to prepare any additional side dishes, such as bread or a fresh salad, to complement your meal.
When the cooking time is complete, the electric pressure cooker will typically switch to a “Keep Warm” setting. At this point, you can perform a natural release or a quick release to release the pressure.
Congratulations! You have successfully set the electric pressure cooker. The delicious aroma filling your kitchen lets you know that a satisfying and comforting bowl of chicken soup is just moments away.
Step 6: Natural Release or Quick Release
After the cooking time is complete, it’s time to release the pressure from the electric pressure cooker. There are two methods you can use: natural release or quick release.
Natural Release: This method involves allowing the pressure to naturally decrease over time. Simply turn off the heat and let the pressure cooker sit undisturbed for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the pressure will naturally dissipate, and the float valve will drop, indicating that it is safe to open the lid.
Quick Release: If you’re short on time or eager to dig into your chicken soup, you can opt for a quick release. Carefully and slowly turn the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position using a long-handled spoon or a kitchen towel to protect your hand from the steam. Be cautious as the steam will release with force. Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.
Regardless of the method you choose, it’s important to exercise caution when releasing the pressure to avoid any potential burns or accidents.
Once the pressure has been released and it is safe to open the lid, remove it, and take in the aromatic goodness of your freshly cooked chicken soup. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fragrant vegetables will surely make your mouth water in anticipation of a comforting and delicious meal.
Now that you’ve released the pressure, it’s time to move on to the next step—shredding the chicken and adding noodles, if desired.
Step 7: Shred the Chicken and Add Noodles (optional)
With the pressure released and the lid off, it’s time to take your chicken soup to the next level by shredding the tender chicken and adding noodles, if desired.
Using a pair of tongs or a fork, carefully remove the cooked chicken pieces from the electric pressure cooker and place them on a cutting board. Allow them to cool slightly before shredding.
Once the chicken has cooled, use your fingers or two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easily fall apart.
Once the chicken is shredded, return it back to the electric pressure cooker, mixing it with the flavorful broth and vegetables. This step ensures that every spoonful of soup is packed with savory chicken goodness.
If you prefer your chicken soup with noodles, now is the time to add them. You can choose any type of noodles you like, such as egg noodles, pasta shells, or rice noodles.
Simply pour the desired amount of uncooked noodles into the soup, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. The noodles will cook directly in the hot broth, absorbing the flavors and becoming tender and delicious.
Cook the soup for an additional 5-7 minutes on the sauté function or until the noodles are cooked to your liking. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
If you prefer your noodles to be cooked separately, you can cook them in a separate pot according to the package instructions and then add them to each bowl of soup before serving.
Now that the chicken is shredded and noodles are added, it’s time to move on to the final step—serving and enjoying your homemade chicken soup!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Congratulations! You have successfully made a delightful batch of chicken soup in your electric pressure cooker. Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and savor the delicious flavors you’ve created.
To serve the soup, ladle it into bowls, making sure to divide the shredded chicken, vegetables, and noodles evenly among each serving. The aromatic steam rising from the bowl will immediately whet your appetite.
You can garnish your chicken soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness and a pop of color. The vibrant green parsley not only adds visual appeal but also a subtle herbaceous note.
Pair your chicken soup with some crusty bread or buttery crackers for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures will make each bite even more enjoyable.
Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of chicken soup on a chilly winter evening or seeking comfort when feeling under the weather, its warm and hearty qualities are sure to nourish both your body and soul.
Plus, the beauty of making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker is that it develops rich flavors in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop methods. This means you can enjoy a homemade, wholesome soup even on a busy weeknight.
So gather your loved ones or cozy up with a bowl of soup all to yourself. Enjoy the comforting and nourishing warmth of your homemade chicken soup, and let it bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making chicken soup in an electric pressure cooker, get creative and try adding your own twist with different vegetables, spices, and seasonings. Experiment and make this recipe your own!
Remember, a good bowl of chicken soup is like a warm hug—it brings comfort, satisfaction, and a sense of well-being. Enjoy the process of making it, and relish in the joy of the delicious outcome.
So go ahead, grab your spoon, and dive into the depths of flavor in your homemade chicken soup. Bon appétit!
