Instant Pot Chicken And Noodles is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the warmth of homemade cooking to your table in a fraction of the time. With tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and a savory broth that envelops it all, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing for a delicious meal to be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavors are simply divine. The combination of garlic, onion, and herbs meld beautifully with the chicken, creating a rich and savory broth. The Instant Pot takes care of all the cooking, which means you can enjoy perfectly cooked chicken and noodles without the fuss. Plus, it fits well into a variety of dietary lifestyles, being naturally high in protein and fairly low in carbs if you choose whole wheat noodles. It’s comfort food made easy, and who doesn’t love that?
Tips and Tricks
- Sauté First: Before adding the liquid, sauté the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot to enhance the flavor profile. This step adds depth to the broth.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, opt for fresh parsley or thyme over dried for a brighter flavor.
- Noodle Type: Egg noodles work best, but you can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. Just be mindful of the cooking time as they may vary.
- Broth Balance: If you prefer a richer broth, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to follow the recommended cooking time to avoid dry chicken. The Instant Pot cooks quickly and retains moisture.
- Skipping the Sauté: Don’t skip the sautéing step. It’s crucial for building flavor.
- Not Enough Liquid: Ensure you have enough broth or water in the pot. The noodles need liquid to cook properly.
- Ignoring Natural Release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before switching to quick release to keep the chicken tender.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep several components of this dish ahead of time. Chop your onions, garlic, and any other vegetables, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also marinate the chicken in your favorite spices or herbs a day prior to cooking for extra flavor. Cooked chicken and noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add frozen peas, carrots, or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Different Proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
How to Serve
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles straight from the pot for a cozy, family-style meal. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a touch of elegance, serve it in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. A refreshing iced tea or lemonade would also complement the dish nicely. As for sides, a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables work beautifully. If you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of apple pie or chocolate cake would make for a delightful dessert.
How to Store
To store leftovers, transfer the chicken and noodles to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen the noodles.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need an Instant Pot for this recipe, which is essential for achieving that tender, fall-apart chicken and perfectly cooked noodles. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, a traditional stovetop method can be used, though cooking times will vary. A good cutting board and knife for prepping your ingredients are also essential.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free option, skip any dairy-based garnishes or creams. Gluten-free noodles can easily replace regular egg noodles to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh peas or asparagus for a seasonal twist. In fall and winter, incorporate hearty vegetables like carrots and celery for added warmth and nutrition. Using fresh herbs in warmer months versus dried herbs in colder months can also enhance the flavor profile.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for a batch of Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is around $12 for four servings, making it about $3 per serving. To keep costs down, buy chicken in bulk, use store-brand noodles, and consider seasonal vegetables which are often cheaper.
Kitchen Hacks
- Quick Garlic Peeling: Smash garlic cloves with the flat side of a knife to easily peel them.
- Chop Ahead: Prepare your vegetables the night before to save time during the cooking process.
- Instant Pot Cleanup: To reduce mess, place a paper towel in the bottom of the pot while sautéing to catch any splashes.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- What if I don’t have egg noodles? You can substitute with any type of pasta; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How can I prevent the noodles from getting mushy? Make sure to follow the cooking times closely and consider using the quick release method after cooking.
Instant Pot Chicken And Noodles
Instant Pot Chicken And Noodles is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the warmth of homemade cooking to your table in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the egg noodles, making sure they are submerged in the broth.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 6 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pot to naturally release for 10 minutes, then switch to quick release.
- Stir the mixture well, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 352Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 117mgSodium: 1363mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 40g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick yet satisfying dish. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings to your table. Happy cooking!
