This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Made with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, cream, and a blend of warm spices, this soup comes together in under 30 minutes in an electric pressure cooker. It’s easy to make, full of protein, and perfect for cold days or a cozy dinner. Enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy bowl that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 small jar (220g) sun-dried tomatoes, drained from oil
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chipotle or cayenne chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ cups (375ml) chicken stock
- 1 cup cream
- ½ cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Sauté aromatics: Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat the oil, then add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breast, sun-dried tomatoes, bell pepper, cumin, oregano, paprika, chili powder, and chicken stock. Stir well, cover with the lid, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Release pressure & shred the chicken: Once done, quick-release the pressure by turning the valve to “venting”. Remove the chicken breast, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Make it creamy: Stir in the cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir until the cheese melts and the soup is smooth.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!
Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s the perfect one-pot meal for busy nights or when you need something warm and satisfying! 🍲🔥
Why Choose Instant Pot for Creamy Chicken Soup?
The Instant Pot is an incredibly versatile kitchen tool that can cook meals quickly while enhancing the flavors of ingredients. When it comes to soups, the electric pressure cooker is particularly valuable because it can infuse deep flavors in a fraction of the time compared to traditional stovetop cooking. For this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup, the chicken is cooked perfectly in the pressure cooker, allowing the spices, sun-dried tomatoes, and other ingredients to blend beautifully and create a rich, flavorful broth in under 30 minutes. The added benefit of pressure cooking is that it helps tenderize the chicken, making it easy to shred into juicy, succulent pieces that absorb all the flavor from the soup.
A Flavorful and Creamy Combination of Ingredients
This soup features a combination of ingredients that elevate it from a simple chicken soup to a full-flavored, satisfying meal. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy, umami-rich depth to the soup, while the bell peppers provide a sweet crunch that balances the richness of the cream. The cream cheese and cheddar cheese offer an indulgent creamy texture that coats the chicken and vegetables in a velvety sauce, making each spoonful a comforting experience. The blend of spices, including cumin, oregano, and paprika, creates a warm, earthy base that gives the soup complexity without overpowering the ingredients. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the chipotle chili powder or cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, making this soup more exciting without being too spicy.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
While this soup is indulgent and creamy, it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a healthy meal option. Chicken breast, the primary protein source, is lean and high in protein, helping to support muscle growth and repair. The bell peppers provide a rich dose of vitamin C, essential for immune function and skin health. The sun-dried tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is great for heart health. Additionally, the cream and cream cheese offer healthy fats that promote satiety, while the inclusion of cilantro as a garnish adds extra antioxidants, boosting the soup’s overall nutritional value.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup is versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. It’s a fantastic dish to serve at family dinners, where everyone can gather around a big pot of warm soup and enjoy it together. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner during the week. Whether you’re hosting a casual game day, a cozy holiday gathering, or just enjoying a quiet night at home, this creamy chicken soup fits perfectly into any occasion.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Preferences
One of the best features of this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup is its adaptability. You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary preferences. For example, if you prefer a lower-fat version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or light cream for a lighter texture while still maintaining a creamy base. If you’re looking for more veggies, consider adding carrots, celery, or spinach to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the soup. For a vegetarian alternative, swap the chicken for tofu or lentils and follow the same steps for cooking, allowing the flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes and spices to shine through.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own, but it can be served with a variety of sides to enhance the meal. For a more filling dinner, pair it with a crusty baguette or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. Crumbled bacon or grilled chicken can be added as a topping for extra protein and crunch. If you prefer a bit of tang, squeeze a wedge of lemon over the soup before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Conclusion: A Quick, Delicious, and Nourishing Meal
The Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Soup is the perfect meal for those seeking comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can create a rich, flavorful soup that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of creamy textures, tender chicken, and bold spices makes this soup an irresistible dish that will please a crowd. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner, this Instant Pot recipe will become a staple in your cooking rotation.
The ease of preparation, the rich and deep flavors, and the versatility of ingredients make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this creamy chicken soup will not disappoint. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and full of flavor, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!