Are you in the mood for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table? Look no further than Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles! This delightful meal is not just another dinner option; it’s a cozy embrace on a plate. Imae perfectly cooked chicken combined with tender noodles, all enveloped in a rich and savory broth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want to serve something nourishing to your loved ones.
You might not know this, but this comforting recipe is similar to the classic chicken noodle soup, just with a twist that adds heartiness. How many times have you thought, “What’s for dinner?” only to feel uninspired? Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is here to turn that frown upside down! With quick preparation and minimal ingredients, it’s simple enough for even novice cooks to impress their families. Trust us, this dish will quickly become a household favorite!
What is Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles?
So, what’s the deal with the name “Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles?” It sounds straightforward enough, right? But can we just take a moment to appreciate the sheer elegance of simplicity? Think about it: you take two basic components—chicken and noodles—and elevate them with the magic of pressure cooking! It’s literally like a warm hug in bowl form. They say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and with this dish, you’ll be winning over hearts and taste buds in no time. Why not give this fabulous recipe a go? You won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
What makes Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles so irresistible? First, it’s the highlight of the dish: the creamy, comforting sauce that brings everything together. As the chicken cooks, it releases its juices, blending perfectly with the broth and noodles to create a dish that’s simply bursting with flavor.
Second, let’s talk about cost-saving benefits. By making this dish at home, you’re not just saving money; you’re also avoiding the preservatives and additives often found in store-bought alternatives. Homemade meals allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option for you and your family.
Finally, the special ingredients that set this dish apart include fresh vegetables and herbs that add a wonderful depth of flavor. While you may find similar recipes like Chicken and Dumplings, the quick cooking time and creamy texture of this chicken and noodles version make it a standout option for those looking to maximize their mealtime enjoyment. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
Quick Overview
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a satisfying dish that can be ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how effortlessly all the flavors meld together to create a perfect family meal that’s creamy, rich, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a splash of oil, and once it’s hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and select the manual setting. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Carefully remove the lid.
- Add Noodles: Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Add the uncooked egg noodles directly into the pot, along with the shredded chicken.
- Finish Cooking: Close the lid again, set to high pressure, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release again.
- Stir in Cream: Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
What to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles With
To create a well-rounded meal, you can pair Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. A light, crusty bread or buttery garlic biscuits would also make for the perfect accompaniment, allowing everyone to soak up that delicious creamy sauce. For beverage pairings, a glass of iced tea or lemonade adds a refreshing touch.
Top Tips for Perfecting Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on your preference. Peas, corn, or even bell peppers would be delightful additions.
- Timing Adjustments: If you prefer thicker noodles, consider adding them later in the cooking process or using a quick-cooking variety.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure you don’t skip the sautéing step for the vegetables, as it builds flavor in the dish that you don’t want to miss.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, pour the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat while adding a splash of chicken broth to retain the creamy texture.
Now that you’re equipped with all the secrets to prepare exquisite Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles, get cooking! You’ll find that this dish is not only tasty but also a fantastic way to gather the family around the dinner table. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a splash of oil, and once it’s hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add in the garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Place the chicken breasts in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and select the manual setting. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release to let out the steam. Carefully remove the lid.
- Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Add the uncooked egg noodles directly into the pot, along with the shredded chicken.
- Close the lid again, set to high pressure, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release again.
- Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
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