Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup: Easy & Healthy Recipe

Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup: Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of chicken soup? Especially when you know it’s packed with nutrients and completely compliant with your Whole30 goals! This isn’t just any chicken soup; it’s a flavorful, nourishing powerhouse that’s ready in a fraction of the time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.

Chicken soup has been a staple in cultures around the world for centuries, often hailed as a remedy for colds and a symbol of home and healing. From Jewish penicillin to Asian broths, the variations are endless, but the underlying principle remains the same: simple ingredients, simmered with love, create a deeply satisfying and restorative meal.

What makes this particular version so special? Well, besides being incredibly easy to make, this Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup is bursting with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs. It’s the perfect balance of savory and comforting, without any grains, dairy, or added sugars. People love it because it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic comfort food, and the Instant Pot makes it weeknight-friendly. The pressure cooking method infuses the chicken and vegetables with incredible flavor, creating a rich and satisfying broth that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both economical and convenient. Get ready to experience the ultimate in healthy comfort food!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium, compliant)
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 cup chopped cauliflower florets
• 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Soup Base:

1. First, turn your Instant Pot to the “Saute” function. Once the display reads “Hot,” add the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the Instant Pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it! You want the onions to become translucent and the carrots and celery to soften slightly.
3. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the Instant Pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma of the herbs blooming in the hot oil is just wonderful!
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the Instant Pot to deglaze it. This is important to prevent the “Burn” notice. Make sure to get all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom!

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the Instant Pot. Make sure they are submerged in the chicken broth.
2. Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
3. Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve.
4. Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 10 minutes. If using chicken thighs, you might want to increase the cooking time to 12 minutes for extra tenderness.
5. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Be cautious when releasing the pressure manually, as hot steam will escape.
6. Carefully open the Instant Pot lid.
7. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and place it on a cutting board.
8. Using two forks, shred the chicken.

Adding the Vegetables and Finishing the Soup:

1. Add the chopped cauliflower florets, broccoli florets, and green beans to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the Instant Pot lid again and seal the valve.
3. Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 3 minutes. This short cooking time ensures the vegetables are tender-crisp and not mushy.
4. Once the cooking time is up, quickly release the pressure manually.
5. Carefully open the Instant Pot lid.
6. Add the shredded chicken back into the Instant Pot.
7. Stir everything together to combine.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
9. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving:

1. Ladle the Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.

Tips and Variations:

• Bone-in Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken pieces (like drumsticks or thighs) for even more flavor. Increase the cooking time to 15 minutes and ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
• Sweet Potatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients. Add them along with the other vegetables.
• Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other Whole30-compliant vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. If you prefer a milder soup, omit them altogether.
• Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme, rosemary, and sage on hand, use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup is a fantastic recipe because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly convenient to cook a delicious and nutritious soup in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop methods. The combination of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and tender chicken creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly day or any time you’re craving a healthy and flavorful soup. Plus, it’s completely Whole30 compliant, making it a great option for those following the program.

Troubleshooting:

• “Burn” Notice: If you get a “Burn” notice on your Instant Pot, immediately turn off the Instant Pot and release the pressure manually. Remove the inner pot and scrape the bottom to remove any stuck-on food. Add a little more chicken broth and try again. Make sure to deglaze the pot properly after sautéing the vegetables.
• Chicken is Dry: If the chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. Make sure to use the correct cooking time and let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes. You can also add a little more chicken broth to the soup to help keep the chicken moist.
• Soup is Too Thick: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Soup is Too Thin: If the soup is too thin, you can simmer it on the “Saute” function for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken soup recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl, a nutritional powerhouse, and a testament to how delicious healthy eating can be, especially when you’re following Whole30. I truly believe this Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food that aligns with their health goals. The ease of the Instant Pot combined with the depth of flavor achieved through simple, wholesome ingredients makes it a winner in my book, and I’m confident it will be in yours too.

Think about it: tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a broth so rich and flavorful, you’ll want to savor every last spoonful. It’s the perfect antidote to a chilly evening, a comforting meal when you’re feeling under the weather, or simply a delicious and nourishing way to fuel your body. And because it’s Whole30 compliant, you can enjoy it guilt-free, knowing you’re staying on track with your dietary commitments.

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity and health benefits but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach added at the end would be fantastic additions. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the Instant Pot.

Serving suggestions are endless! I love enjoying a steaming bowl of this soup with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete and satisfying meal. You could also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re not strictly following Whole30, a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt can add a delightful tanginess. For those looking for a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked sweet potato noodles or even shredded chicken thighs for extra protein.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! The beauty of cooking is in the experimentation and personalization. I encourage you to tweak the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Maybe you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, or perhaps you’re a fan of adding a touch of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so excited for you to try this Whole30 Instant Pot Chicken Soup. It’s a recipe that I’ve come to rely on time and time again, and I truly believe it will become a staple in your kitchen as well. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your Instant Pot, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade chicken soup.

Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite additions? Share your photos and stories with me in the comments below. Let’s create a community of soup lovers and inspire each other to embrace healthy and delicious eating. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!