Name: High Protein Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound); 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

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There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of High Protein Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Soup. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, filling your home with warmth and comfort like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy.

Now picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, your family is tired and hangry, and you need dinner on the table—stat! Enter this delightful soup that practically cooks itself in your trusty Instant Pot. With just a few ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you’ll serve up bowls of happiness that even the pickiest eaters will devour.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This High Protein Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Soup is not only easy to prepare but bursting with flavor that warms the soul
You can customize ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, making it versatile for any occasion
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually appealing for family dinners or meal prep
Perfect for those chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather!

Ah, I remember the first time I made this recipe—my kids couldn’t stop raving about it, even asking for seconds! It quickly became a family favorite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many people you’re feeding; they’re easy to cut and cook quickly.
Long Grain White Rice: This type of rice absorbs flavors well; avoid brown rice as it takes longer to cook.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Celery Stalks: Use crisp celery to provide crunch and depth; wash thoroughly before dicing.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor; crush or mince them for the best results.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enriching the soup’s flavor.
Dried Thyme: A classic herb that enhances the savory profile; fresh thyme can also work wonders if you have it!
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds just the right amount of spice without overwhelming other flavors.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté vegetables and prevents sticking in your pot.
Lemon Juice (optional): A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup’s flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

First things first: let’s get our Instant Pot ready to work its magic.

Sautéing Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, toss in minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—around 1 minute will do.

Add Vegetables & Chicken: Stir in diced carrots and celery, cooking until they soften slightly—about 3 minutes should suffice. Next, add your chicken breasts right into the mix.

Add Rice & Broth: Pour in long-grain white rice followed by low-sodium chicken broth. creamy white chicken chili Ensure everything is well combined so all those flavors mingle together.

Seasoning Time!: Sprinkle dried thyme and freshly ground black pepper over the top. If using lemon juice, hold off until later; we want those zesty notes to shine!

Cooking Under Pressure: Close the lid securely, set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Remember that it’ll take about 10 minutes for it to come to pressure before cooking starts.

Naturally Release Pressure**: Once cooking is complete, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Finally, carefully quick release any remaining pressure—watch out for steam!

And there you have it! Serve hot bowls garnished with additional thyme or a sprinkle of lemon juice if desired. Enjoy every spoonful as you revel in its heartwarming goodness!

This High Protein Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Soup doesn’t just fill bellies—it fills hearts too!

You Must Know

High Protein Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights
It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor that’ll make you feel like a culinary genius without spending hours in the kitchen
The smell alone will have your family flocking to the table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the chicken until golden brown, then add veggies and rice before pressure cooking. This sequence ensures flavors meld beautifully while keeping chicken juicy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap quinoa for rice or add your favorite herbs for a unique twist. A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until piping hot to enjoy again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate your soup, use homemade broth instead of store-bought for richer flavor
Always season between layers for maximum taste impact
Don’t overcook; keep an eye on timing for tender chicken without dryness

Sharing this recipe has been a joy; my friends rave about it every time I serve it at gatherings, making it an instant favorite.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can use turkey or tofu as great alternatives to keep it protein-packed.

How long does it take to cook in the Instant Pot?

Cooking time takes about 15 minutes under high pressure, plus natural release time.

Can I freeze this soup for later use?

Yes, it freezes well! Just thaw overnight before reheating.