Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup

Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is a hearty, wholesome, and comforting dish that comes together quickly and easily in a pressure cooker. Packed with lean chicken, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is ideal for chilly days, quick weeknight dinners, or healthy meal prep. The Instant Pot ensures all the flavors meld beautifully in a fraction of the time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy with the help of the Instant Pot
• Nutritious and low in fat
• Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins
• Great for batch cooking and leftovers
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
• Easily customizable with your favorite veggies
• Perfect for cold weather or when you’re feeling under the weather
• One-pot meal means easy cleanup
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• Comforting, cozy, and satisfying

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Carrots, chopped
• Celery, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Potatoes, diced (optional)
• Green beans or peas
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth or stock
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaf
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Sauté aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, potatoes (if using), green beans or peas, chicken breasts/thighs, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pressure cook: Lock the lid in place, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Natural release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to vent remaining steam.
5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir well.
6. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes (plus 10 minutes natural release)
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add pasta or rice for extra heartiness (cook separately to avoid mushiness)
• Use turkey instead of chicken
• Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra greens
• Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes
• Spice it up with a dash of chili flakes or cayenne
• Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end

storage/reheating

Store soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Increase pressure cooking time to 15 minutes.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, just simmer everything in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Do I need to sauté the veggies first?

It’s optional but recommended for better flavor.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, add shredded cooked chicken after pressure cooking and stir to warm through.

What are the best vegetables for this soup?

Carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, peas, zucchini, and spinach all work well.

Can I make this soup low-carb?

Yes, skip the potatoes and use more low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or cabbage.

How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry if desired.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be portioned into individual servings.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure you don’t exceed the Instant Pot’s max fill line.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It keeps for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Vegetable Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that proves homemade soup doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s the perfect go-to for healthy meals during the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or stocking your freezer, this cozy bowl of goodness is always a smart and satisfying choice.

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