The Ultimate Guide to Olena’s Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

Discovering the Comfort of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a day when you’re feeling under the weather, this classic dish has a way of bringing comfort. Growing up, my mom always had a pot simmering on the stove, filling the house with a rich, savory aroma. It wasn’t just food; it was home.

Now, thanks to the Instant Pot, making homemade chicken noodle soup has never been easier. Instead of waiting hours for flavors to develop, you can have a deeply satisfying, flavorful soup in less than an hour. With Olena’s Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, you get all the heartwarming goodness without the long cooking time. Let’s break down why this recipe stands out and why you’ll love making it at home.

Why Choose Olena’s Real Food Recipe?

Olena’s recipe is popular because it strikes the perfect balance between health and flavor. Many chicken noodle soup recipes use unnecessary additives, but this one keeps it real—fresh ingredients, minimal prep, and a focus on nourishing flavors. The Instant Pot does most of the work, locking in the taste while ensuring the chicken stays tender and juicy.

Here’s why this recipe is a favorite:

• Quick and easy: No need to stand by the stove for hours. The Instant Pot makes the process effortless.
• Healthy ingredients: Fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and a rich, homemade broth make this soup a nutritious choice.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer egg noodles, whole wheat pasta, or gluten-free options, this soup adapts to your preferences.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Now that you know why this recipe is worth trying, let’s look at the ingredients that make it so special.

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

Key Components of the Soup

Every bowl of Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup starts with a few key ingredients. From high-quality chicken to aromatic vegetables and rich broth, each element contributes to a soup that’s both flavorful and nourishing.

Chicken Selection

Choosing the right type of chicken is crucial for a flavorful soup. Different cuts bring unique textures and richness, so picking the right one makes a big difference.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are lean and cook quickly, making them perfect for a lighter soup. However, they can become dry if overcooked.
• Chicken thighs: Dark meat has more fat, which means more flavor. Thighs stay juicy and tender even after pressure cooking.
• Bone-in chicken: Cooking with bones adds depth to the broth. After cooking, you can remove the bones for a rich, homemade taste.
• Rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked shredded chicken is an option. Just add it in at the end to prevent overcooking.

Whichever cut you choose, make sure to season the chicken properly before cooking. A little salt, black pepper, and garlic powder will help enhance its natural flavors.

Vegetables and Aromatics

A great chicken noodle soup isn’t just about the chicken—it’s about the vegetables and herbs that add layers of flavor. The right combination of ingredients makes the difference between a basic soup and one that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

• Onions: A key aromatic that forms the soup’s flavor base. Sautéing onions first releases their natural sweetness.
• Carrots: They add natural sweetness and a bit of texture, balancing the savory broth.
• Celery: Provides an earthy, slightly bitter note that rounds out the other flavors.
• Garlic: A small amount of minced garlic boosts depth and warmth.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley, thyme, and bay leaves enhance the soup’s fragrance.

Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery before adding the broth makes a huge difference. This extra step intensifies the flavors, giving the soup a deeper, richer taste.

Broth Basics

The broth is the heart of any chicken noodle soup. A high-quality broth makes all the difference, as it infuses every bite with rich, savory goodness.

Here are the best options:

• Homemade chicken broth: If you have time, making your own broth from chicken bones and vegetables creates the deepest flavor.
• Store-bought chicken broth: Look for low-sodium broth to control the salt level. Some of the best brands include Better Than Bouillon, Swanson, and Pacific Foods.
• Bone broth: This option adds extra collagen and nutrients, making the soup even more nourishing.

If you want to boost the flavor of store-bought broth, try adding a splash of soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, or a Parmesan rind while cooking. These simple tricks help deepen the umami notes in the soup.

Noodles

The type of noodles you choose can impact the soup’s texture and overall experience. Since noodles absorb liquid, choosing the right kind helps keep them from getting too soft.

Here are the best noodle options:

• Egg noodles: A classic choice for chicken noodle soup. Their slightly chewy texture holds up well in broth.
• Whole wheat pasta: A healthier alternative that adds a bit of nuttiness to the flavor.
• Gluten-free noodles: For those avoiding gluten, rice noodles or chickpea pasta work well.
• Spiralized vegetables: If you want a low-carb option, zucchini or carrot noodles add a fresh twist.

To prevent mushy noodles, add them at the very end of the cooking process. The residual heat from the broth will cook them just right without making them overly soft.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Making Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is easier than you might think, but following the right steps ensures the best results. From prepping your ingredients to adjusting the final seasonings, every detail matters. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the cooking process, including tips for maximizing flavor, achieving the perfect texture, and avoiding common mistakes.

Preparing Ingredients for Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Before turning on your Instant Pot, take the time to prepare your ingredients properly. Chopping vegetables, measuring spices, and seasoning the chicken ahead of time will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Chopping and Measuring

Efficiency in the kitchen starts with proper prep work. Since Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup comes together quickly, having everything prepped beforehand is essential.

• Dice the onions, carrots, and celery evenly so they cook at the same rate. Cutting them into small, uniform pieces ensures that no one ingredient overpowers the others.
• Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press for even distribution. Fresh garlic adds a deep, rich flavor that enhances the broth.
• Measure out your seasonings and broth in advance to avoid last-minute scrambling. Having everything ready allows you to focus on cooking instead of searching for ingredients.
• Portion the noodles separately and set them aside for later. Since they cook quickly, you don’t want them sitting in the broth too long before serving.

Proper preparation not only saves time but also helps achieve a balanced and flavorful soup.

Seasoning the Chicken

A well-seasoned chicken is the foundation of great flavor. Even though the broth will infuse the meat, pre-seasoning ensures that every bite is flavorful.

• Use a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder to season the chicken before cooking. This simple combination enhances the meat’s natural taste.
• For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 15 minutes in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and dried herbs. While optional, this step helps tenderize the meat.
• If using bone-in chicken, rub the seasoning under the skin to infuse more flavor directly into the meat.
• For extra richness, sear the chicken using the sauté function before pressure cooking. This step locks in juices and adds a deeper taste to the broth.

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.

Utilizing the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot simplifies cooking by reducing the time needed for flavors to develop. With the right settings and techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Sautéing for Flavor

One of the best ways to enhance the depth of Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is by using the sauté function before pressure cooking.

• Heat a small amount of oil in the Instant Pot before adding the onions, carrots, and celery. Sautéing them for a few minutes releases their natural sweetness and intensifies the flavor.
• Add the garlic last to prevent burning. Garlic cooks quickly, so stirring it in for just 30 seconds before adding liquid is enough.
• If you didn’t season the chicken earlier, now is a good time to add spices directly to the pot. This allows the flavors to bloom before adding broth.
• For a richer broth, deglaze the pot with a splash of chicken broth or white wine before pressure cooking. Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom adds an extra layer of taste.

After sautéing, the soup base is ready for the next step—pressure cooking.

Pressure Cooking Essentials

Using the correct Instant Pot settings ensures that the chicken stays juicy while the vegetables become perfectly tender.

• Add the seasoned chicken to the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in broth. This allows it to cook evenly and absorb the surrounding flavors.
• Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes if using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If using bone-in chicken, cook for 15 minutes.
• Allow a natural pressure release for 5-10 minutes before manually releasing the rest. This step prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery and helps retain moisture.
• Shred the chicken once it’s cooked using two forks. Since the meat will be tender, it should fall apart easily. Return it to the pot so it soaks up even more of the broth’s flavor.

Once the chicken and vegetables are perfectly cooked, it’s time to add the noodles.

Adding Noodles

Noodles can make or break a good chicken noodle soup. Cooking them the right way ensures that they stay firm and don’t turn mushy.

• Always add noodles at the very end to prevent them from overcooking. The residual heat in the broth is usually enough to cook them through.
• For egg noodles, let them simmer for 5-7 minutes after pressure cooking. If using whole wheat pasta, it may need an extra minute or two.
• For gluten-free noodles, cook them separately and add them to individual bowls before pouring the soup over them. This prevents them from breaking apart in the broth.
• If making a large batch, cook noodles separately and store them apart from the soup. This way, they won’t absorb too much liquid and turn soggy in leftovers.

Now that the soup is nearly complete, let’s finish with some final touches.

Final Touches

Before serving Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, adjusting the seasoning and adding fresh garnishes will take it to the next level.

Adjusting Seasonings

Even with the best ingredients, the final seasoning adjustment can make all the difference.

• Taste the broth before serving and adjust the salt level as needed. Some store-bought broths may require extra seasoning.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors and balance the richness.
• For extra depth, stir in a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami notes.
• If the soup tastes too salty, add a little more broth or water to balance it out. A pinch of sugar can also help neutralize excess saltiness.

Once the seasonings are perfected, the final step is adding garnishes for a beautiful presentation.

Garnishing Options

A good garnish not only makes the soup look more appealing but also adds extra flavor and texture.

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro gives a burst of freshness and color.
• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a touch of richness and depth.
• Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the savory notes of the broth.
• A drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream creates a velvety finish.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

By taking these extra steps, you ensure that Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Now, all that’s left to do is serve and enjoy.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting

Making Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple, but small adjustments can make it even better. Whether you’re adapting the recipe for dietary needs or fixing common cooking mistakes, a few tweaks can improve both flavor and texture.

Customizing Your Soup

Not every bowl of chicken noodle soup has to be the same. Customizing it to suit your preferences or dietary requirements makes it even more enjoyable.

Dietary Modifications

If you need to make this soup gluten-free, low-sodium, or dairy-free, there are plenty of easy swaps that won’t sacrifice flavor.

• Gluten-Free Noodles: Regular egg noodles contain gluten, but there are great alternatives. Rice noodles, chickpea pasta, or even spiralized zucchini work well. If using gluten-free pasta, cook it separately and add it right before serving to prevent it from breaking apart.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Store-bought broths can be high in sodium. To reduce salt, choose a low-sodium chicken broth or make your own by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs. Adding a splash of lemon juice can help enhance flavor without extra salt.
• Dairy-Free Version: Most chicken noodle soups are naturally dairy-free, but if you like a creamy texture, try adding a splash of unsweetened coconut milk instead of cream.

Flavor Enhancements

Even though Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with flavor, a few extra ingredients can take it up a notch.

• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving brightens the broth and balances the flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of spice.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, and thyme work well, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Adding fresh basil or cilantro can give the soup a unique twist.
• Soy Sauce or Fish Sauce: These umami-rich ingredients deepen the broth’s flavor, making it taste like it simmered for hours.
• Parmesan Rind: If you love a rich, savory broth, drop a small Parmesan rind into the pot while cooking. It melts slightly and adds incredible depth to the soup.

Now that you know how to customize the soup, let’s address some common cooking challenges.

Common Issues and Solutions

Even the best recipes can run into problems. If your Instant Pot chicken noodle soup isn’t turning out quite right, these fixes can help.

Preventing Rubbery Chicken

One of the biggest complaints about Instant Pot chicken is that it can turn out rubbery. This usually happens because of improper cooking time or pressure release methods.

• Use the right cooking time: Chicken breasts cook perfectly at high pressure for 10 minutes with a natural release of at least 5 minutes. Bone-in chicken thighs may need 15 minutes.
• Avoid quick pressure release: A sudden release of steam can make the chicken tough. Always let the pressure come down naturally for at least 5-10 minutes before manually releasing the rest.
• Slice against the grain: If your chicken feels a bit chewy, slicing it against the grain makes it more tender.
• Consider using chicken thighs: They have more fat and are naturally juicier, making them harder to overcook.

If you’re still having issues with rubbery chicken, try shredding it and letting it sit in the broth for a few extra minutes. This helps it absorb moisture and become more tender.

Avoiding Mushy Noodles

No one likes soggy noodles in their soup. The key to perfect chicken noodle soup is timing and choosing the right type of pasta.

• Add noodles at the very end: The Instant Pot cooks quickly, so adding noodles too soon makes them mushy. Toss them in after pressure cooking and let them simmer for 5-7 minutes.
• Use the right noodles: Egg noodles hold their texture well, but if you want an even firmer bite, opt for whole wheat pasta or even ditalini.
• Cook noodles separately for leftovers: If you plan to store soup for later, keep the noodles in a separate container and add them when reheating. This prevents them from absorbing too much liquid overnight.
• Reduce cooking time for softer noodles: If you prefer extra-soft noodles, cook them for a full 10 minutes in the broth after pressure cooking.

With these tips, your Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup will always turn out just right. Next, let’s go over some frequently asked questions to clear up any remaining doubts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Even with a detailed recipe, questions often come up when making Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns, including broth selection, chicken texture, and secret ingredients that can take your soup to the next level.

What Brand of Broth Is Best for Chicken Noodle Soup?

The broth is the foundation of any great soup, so choosing a high-quality brand makes a big difference. While homemade broth is always best, not everyone has time to make it from scratch.

Here are some of the best store-bought broths:

• Better Than Bouillon – A concentrated paste that allows you to adjust the strength of the broth to your liking.
• Swanson Natural Goodness – A low-sodium option that delivers a clean, rich chicken flavor.
• Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Broth – A great choice for those looking for organic ingredients without additives.
• Kettle & Fire Bone Broth – High in collagen and nutrients, this broth adds depth to the soup.

If you’re using store-bought broth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a Parmesan rind while cooking. This simple trick boosts the flavor and makes the soup taste homemade.

Why Does My Instant Pot Chicken Taste Rubbery?

If your Instant Pot chicken turns out rubbery, it’s likely due to improper cooking time or pressure release techniques. Because pressure cooking happens quickly, even a small miscalculation can affect the texture.

• Overcooking: Cooking chicken too long at high pressure can cause it to become dense and tough. Boneless chicken breasts should be cooked for 10 minutes, while bone-in thighs need around 15 minutes.
• Quick pressure release: Immediately releasing the pressure can cause muscle fibers to tighten, making the chicken chewy. Instead, allow a natural pressure release for at least 5-10 minutes before manually venting.
• Low-quality chicken: Some pre-packaged chicken contains added water or sodium, which can change the texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken whenever possible.

If your chicken still feels rubbery, shredding it and letting it sit in the broth for a few extra minutes can help soften it.

How Do You Make Chicken Soup in the Instant Pot?

Making Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple, but following the right steps ensures the best results.

Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown:

1. Prep ingredients: Dice onions, carrots, and celery. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sauté aromatics: Use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to soften the onions, carrots, and celery. Stir in the garlic just before adding liquid.
3. Add broth and chicken: Pour in chicken broth, then add the seasoned chicken.
4. Pressure cook: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes (breasts) or 15 minutes (thighs) and allow a natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes.
5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and return it to the pot.
6. Add noodles: Stir in egg noodles and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice.

That’s it—your homemade Instant Pot chicken noodle soup is ready to serve.

What Is the Secret Ingredient in Soup?

Every great soup has a secret ingredient that enhances its flavor. While Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is already delicious, adding one of these ingredients can take it to the next level.

• Bay Leaves: These add subtle depth and complexity to the broth. Remove them before serving.
• A Splash of Vinegar or Lemon Juice: A little acidity brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
• Parmesan Rind: Tossing in a piece of Parmesan rind while the soup cooks creates a rich, umami-packed broth.
• Soy Sauce or Fish Sauce: Just a teaspoon of either adds a deep, savory note without making the soup taste salty.
• A Dash of Nutmeg: This might sound unusual, but a tiny pinch of nutmeg enhances the warmth of the broth.

Experimenting with different ingredients can help you create a version of chicken noodle soup that’s uniquely your own.

Embracing Homemade Comfort

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Olena Real Food Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. Whether you’re making it to soothe a cold, enjoy a cozy meal, or prep a nourishing dinner for the family, this recipe is a must-try.

The best part? It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, thanks to fresh ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot. Now that you know how to customize, troubleshoot, and perfect this classic dish, it’s time to give it a try.

Make a batch, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every comforting spoonful. If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out—we’d love to hear your favorite tweaks and additions.