Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s something magical about a bowl of Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup—it wraps you in comfort, warms you from the inside out, and delivers both wholesome nutrition and incredible flavor in every spoonful. This recipe takes all the cozy charm of classic chicken soup and gives it a creamy upgrade, balancing tender chicken, sweet vegetables, and rich broth for a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Whether you need a soothing weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing recipe for family gatherings, Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup has you covered with irresistible ease.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity shines in this soup: each ingredient has a role, whether it’s adding depth, color, or heartiness. By letting the Instant Pot do most of the work, these humble kitchen staples transform into something divine.

• Olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps soften the base vegetables for deeper flavor.
• Onion (diced): A classic aromatic that brings sweetness and savoriness to every bite.
• Garlic (minced): For a fragrant, cozy aroma and gentle bite of flavor that stands out.
• Carrots (peeled and sliced): Offer natural sweetness and a pop of bright orange color.
• Celery (sliced): Lends crunch and a subtle earthiness that’s signature in chicken soups.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Become perfectly tender in the Instant Pot, making shredding a breeze.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out flavors from every ingredient.
• Black pepper: A touch of gentle heat that ties everything together.
• Dried thyme: Adds a hint of warmth and woodsy flavor typical of comfort food soups.
• Dried oregano: Invites a touch of Mediterranean brightness to the dish.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful foundation that lets every ingredient shine without overpowering.
• Frozen corn: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness and subtle texture.
• Frozen peas: These green gems bring a fresh pop and balance to the creaminess.
• Heavy cream: For that ultra-luscious, decadent texture that sets this soup apart.
• All-purpose flour: Combines with water to make a quick slurry that thickens the soup just right.
• Water: Blends with flour for the perfect thickener without lumps.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled in at the end, it adds color and a fragrant herbal note.

How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and pour in the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for 2-3 minutes until softened and lightly golden. This step is the flavor foundation—so don’t rush it. Stir in the carrots and celery next and let them mingle with the onion and garlic for another two minutes, building a wonderful base for your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices

Next, nestle the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle over salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged. These spices infuse every element of the soup with earthy, homey notes that bring the broth to life in the Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup.

Step 3: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Secure the lid, set your Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes. Once time’s up, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes (let the pressure drop on its own), then carefully quick release any remaining pressure. This step ensures the chicken is juicy and fall-apart tender—perfect for shredding later!

Step 4: Shred and Add Veggies

Using tongs, remove the cooked chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the frozen corn and peas, which will cook quickly in the residual heat, lending bursts of color and sweetness to your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup.

Step 5: Thicken and Make it Creamy

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water to form a lump-free slurry. Pour this into the soup and set the pot to sauté mode again. Stir and let the soup simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens to velvety goodness. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and chopped parsley for that signature richness and a vibrant finish. Give it a taste, and adjust seasonings if you wish—your creamy masterpiece is ready to serve!

How to Serve Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup

Garnishes

This soup begs for a few simple, fresh garnishes. Try extra chopped parsley, a crack of fresh black pepper, or even parmesan cheese for extra depth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only brightens the flavor but also makes each bowl look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better than a warm slice of crusty bread to mop up every bit of that creamy broth. You can also serve the soup with a crisp green salad, some homemade garlic bread, or even over fluffy rice for an extra-hearty meal—the possibilities are endless!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic touch, or top each bowl with crunchy homemade croutons. For a family meal, set out a toppings bar with bacon bits, shredded cheese, chives, and extra vegetables so everyone can build their perfect bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get richer and more developed overnight, making your next bowl even better.

Freezing

You can freeze Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and label with the date. If you plan to freeze, consider leaving out the cream and adding it after reheating to prevent separation.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking or curdling. If you notice the soup is thick, add a little extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. For individual portions, the microwave works wonderfully too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely to avoid splatters.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup even more flavorful and tender; just use an equal amount and follow the same steps.

What can I use to make this gluten-free?

Simply swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch (using about half as much), or your favorite gluten-free flour. This way, your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup will be every bit as creamy and satisfying, no gluten required!

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half offers a lighter version with a bit less richness but plenty of creaminess. If you want to keep things lighter, go ahead and swap it in without any other adjustments.

Can I add noodles or rice?

Definitely! Stir in cooked noodles or rice just before serving, or serve the soup ladled over a bed of white or brown rice for a heartier meal. Just keep in mind that adding grains will change the soup’s texture and make it even more filling.

How can I add a touch of heat?

If your household loves a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings, or finish each bowl with a few dashes of hot sauce. It’s an easy way to customize your Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup!

Final Thoughts

There’s just nothing like the comfort and convenience of a homemade Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup. It’s creamy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable—everything you could want from a cozy family recipe. Gather your favorite people, fire up your Instant Pot, and make this soul-soothing soup part of your regular rotation. You’ll be glad you did!

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