When it gets chilly, I crave something warm and comforting, and that’s where my Cozy Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup comes in. Seriously, it’s like a big hug in a bowl. Just imagine tender chicken mingling with sautéed veggies and that creamy cheddar base. Sounds dreamy, right? I used to shy away from cooking soup, but this recipe is so quick and easy that even I can’t mess it up. Let’s get into how to whip this up, shall we?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You know that feeling when the weather turns chilly, and all you want is a big bowl of something warm and comforting? That’s exactly why I adore this instant pot creamy chicken soup.
It’s like a hug in a bowl. Picture tender chicken, sautéed veggies, and a soothing creamy base that warms you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to whip up. Seriously, it almost feels like cheating.
I mean, 15 minutes of pressure cooking, and you’ve got a hearty meal. And let’s not forget the cheesy goodness that makes this dish truly irresistible.
It’s perfect for those lazy evenings when I want to impress friends or just cozy up on the couch. You’ll be hooked, trust me.
Equipment List
Let’s talk gear because having the right equipment can make all the difference when whipping up my cozy Instant Pot chicken soup.
First off, you really need an Instant Pot. It’s like a magical kitchen device that does all the heavy lifting.
Then, there’s a cutting board and a sharp knife for chopping veggies. Honestly, my chopping skills could use some work, but we’ve all been there, right?
Don’t forget a measuring cup for the broth and cream; trust me, guessing measurements won’t end well. A wooden spoon is great for stirring everything together, too.
Finally, you might want some heat-resistant gloves; pulling that hot lid off can be a bit of a wrestling match.
Having the right premium baking equipment can significantly enhance your cooking experience, so consider investing in some top-notch tools.
Seriously, this gear makes everything easier.
Our Ingredients
Making my cozy Instant Pot chicken soup isn’t only about the technique; it all starts with gathering the right ingredients to set you up for success. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that warm, comforting flavor that makes this soup so fantastic. I mean, who doesn’t love a bowl of creamy goodness that feels like a hug on a chilly day?
Let’s get you prepped with everything you’ll need before we plunge into the cooking fun.
Here’s your handy-dandy list of ingredients:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Mexican seasoning (which is a mix of oregano, cumin, paprika, and chili powder)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit. Fresh is always best, so if you can find high-quality chicken and veggies, that’s a definite win.
And don’t skimp on the cream cheese or cheese—they’re the secret stars of the show that bring that delightful creaminess to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can tweak the spices to match your taste; maybe you love a bit more heat or a little extra kick from the seasoning.
Just remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful. No pressure, right? Feel free to get creative or even leave out the bell pepper if it’s not your thing—this soup is as flexible as a yoga instructor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making your cozy Instant Pot chicken soup is such a delightful experience, and I promise it’s as easy as pie—er, soup. Just follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a comforting bowl of creamy goodness that warms your very soul. Ready? Let’s plunge into the cooking fun.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by turning on your Instant Pot and setting it to the sauté function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot, then toss in the chopped onion (1 onion, chopped) and minced garlic (2 cloves minced). Sauté them together for about 3–4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and smell heavenly. Don’t worry if your kitchen starts to smell divine; that just means you’re on the right path.
- Add Chicken and Veggies: Time to add some serious flavor! Place the 2 boneless chicken breasts into the pot along with the chopped bell pepper (1 bell pepper, chopped) and 1 teaspoon of Mexican seasoning. This is where the magic happens—think oregano, cumin, paprika, and chili powder all coming together. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to help the pot work its pressure-cooking magic.
- Pressure Cook the Chicken: Close the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Then, select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure. While it cooks, you can sit back and relish the delicious scents wafting through your kitchen. Yes, your mouth will start watering—totally normal.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the timer goes off, use the quick-release pressure valve to carefully let out the steam—just be cautious not to singe your eyebrows. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks, and then return it to the soup. This will bring back that hearty, meaty goodness that sets this soup apart.
- Add Creaminess: Now for the luxurious part, as if you weren’t already enjoying this enough. Stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese, ½ cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is smooth and melted—trust me, the texture is important here. You want it to look like a velvety dream by the time you’re done.
- Season and Serve: Give it a taste, and don’t forget to adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a bit more kick, feel free to add in more spices or seasonings. To finish, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish it with fresh cilantro for that pop of color and freshness.
And there you have it—your cozy Instant Pot chicken soup is ready to enjoy! Just grab a spoon, curl up with a warm blanket, and let that creamy goodness envelop you like a big hug. What could be better on a chilly day?
To keep your kitchen in order while preparing this soup, consider using stylish pantry labels to identify your ingredients easily!
Tips & Variations
Once your cozy chicken soup is all set and you’re ready to enjoy it, don’t forget that there’s always room for a little creativity in the kitchen.
I like to switch things up by adding veggies like carrots or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Feeling spicy? Toss in some jalapeños for a kick.
If the soup’s too thick for your liking, just blend in extra cream—it’s the secret to creamy perfection. I sometimes add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for that fancy touch, which makes me feel like a gourmet chef.
And don’t forget, leftovers are a goldmine; they make for great lunches. So, grab your spoon, and let your imagination run wild!
How to Serve?
There’s something about a warm bowl of chicken soup that just makes everything feel right in the world.
When I’m ready to serve my creamy chicken soup, I first ladle it into bowls, letting that comforting aroma fill the air. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
If I’m feeling fancy, I might toss in some crunchy tortilla strips or serve it with crusty bread on the side—trust me, it’s a game changer. A squeeze of lime brightens the whole dish, too.
Honestly, what could be better? Envision this: your family gathered around the table, smiling, digging in, and savoring every bite.
That’s cozy, right?
Storage & Reheating Guide
When I make a big batch of my creamy chicken soup, I always think ahead about how to store the leftovers—because let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to enjoy that cozy goodness again?
I usually let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Honestly, my fridge looks like a soup convention afterward.
When it’s time to reheat, I just pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stove—just be careful, it heats unevenly, can’t have a lava moment, right?
If you find it thickened too much, a splash of broth or cream does the trick. Leftovers can last about three days in the fridge or up to three months in the freezer. That’s my lifesaver! Plus, storing them in Mason Jars with Lids helps keep everything fresh and reduces spills.
Final Thoughts
While I might just be a little obsessed with this creamy chicken soup, it’s really no surprise why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen.
It’s quick, comforting, and, well, downright delicious. I mean, who wouldn’t want to plunge into a bowl of rich, cheesy goodness after a long day?
Plus, I always have the ingredients on hand, which means I can whip it up without any last-minute grocery runs. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe once they get a taste.
And if you’re anything like me, you’ll savor the leftovers all week long.
