Are you craving a warm and comforting bowl of chicken soup? Look no further than this delicious Chicken and Pasta Soup recipe, made effortlessly in a pressure cooker. With tender chunks of chicken, hearty vegetables, and al dente pasta, this soup packs a flavorful punch. The pressure cooker locks in all the savory goodness, resulting in a soup that is ready to be enjoyed in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day, this Chicken and Pasta Soup recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your pressure cooker and get ready to indulge in a bowl of homemade goodness.
Ingredients
Chicken breast
- Chicken breast is the star ingredient of this flavorful soup. It provides lean protein and a delicious taste to the dish.
Pasta
- The pasta adds substance to the soup and transforms it into a hearty meal. Choose your favorite type of pasta, such as macaroni, penne, or rotini.
Carrots
- Carrots not only add color to the soup but also bring a natural sweetness. They provide a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Celery
- Celery adds a refreshing crunch to the soup. It also adds depth of flavor and essential nutrients.
Onion
- Onion is the foundation of most dishes, and this soup is no exception. It adds savory and aromatic notes to the soup.
Garlic
- Garlic brings a bold and distinct flavor to the soup. It enhances the overall taste and adds a touch of complexity.
Chicken broth
- Chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, providing a savory and rich flavor. It adds moisture and depth to the dish.
Dried thyme
- Dried thyme is a wonderful herb that complements the chicken and vegetables. It adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.
Salt
- Salt is an essential seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. It brings balance and depth to the soup.
Black pepper
- Black pepper adds a subtle spicy kick to the soup. It complements the other flavors and adds complexity to the dish.
Preparation Time
Making this delicious chicken and pasta soup in a pressure cooker is quick and convenient. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
- Gathering ingredients: 10 minutes
- Chopping vegetables: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering chicken and pasta soup in a pressure cooker.
Step 1: Prep Work
Gather and measure all the ingredients before you start cooking. This will help ensure a smooth and organized cooking process.
Wash and chop the carrots, celery, and onion according to your preference. It’s recommended to dice them into small, bite-sized pieces for easy consumption.
Mince the garlic finely, as it will blend into the soup and distribute its pungent flavor throughout the dish.
Lastly, cut the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. This will allow for quick and even cooking, ensuring tender chicken in the soup.
Step 2: Sautéing
Turn on the pressure cooker to the sauté mode and add a tablespoon of oil. Allow the oil to heat up before proceeding.
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. This technique helps enhance their flavors and adds a delightful aroma to the soup.
Next, add the chopped carrots and celery to the pressure cooker and continue sautéing for a few more minutes. This step helps soften the vegetables slightly before pressure cooking, ensuring they are tender and flavorful in the finished soup.
Step 3: Adding Chicken and Vegetables
Add the chicken breast pieces to the pressure cooker and stir them together with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the chicken to slightly brown on the outside.
Now, it’s time to add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings will coat the chicken and vegetables, infusing them with delicious flavors. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pressure Cooking
Pour the chicken broth into the pressure cooker. Close the lid securely and set the pressure cooker to high pressure. Let it cook for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to become tender.
Step 5: Quick Release and Seasoning
After the cooking time has elapsed, carefully release the pressure using the quick release valve. Be cautious and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper and safe pressure release.
Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and give the soup a taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or black pepper according to your preference. This step ensures the soup is perfectly seasoned to your liking.
Step 6: Adding Pasta
Now, it’s time to add the pasta to the soup. Choose your favorite type of pasta and add the desired amount to the pressure cooker. Close the lid again and set the pressure cooker to high pressure.
Cook the soup for the recommended cooking time for the pasta. This will ensure the pasta is al dente, cooked to perfection without becoming mushy or overcooked.
Step 7: Serving
Once the pasta is cooked, the soup is ready to be served! Ladle the warm and comforting soup into bowls and enjoy. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an added touch of freshness.
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer a different protein, feel free to substitute chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs for extra flavor.
- Customize the soup by adding other vegetables like peas or spinach. They will add additional color, texture, and nutrients to the dish.
- For a creamier soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end. This will create a luscious and velvety texture.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the soup. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, perfect for leftovers or meal planning. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a comforting and delicious meal.