Introduction
Warm your soul and delight your taste buds with this comforting Instant Pot Healthy Lemon Chicken Soup! It’s packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a burst of fresh lemony goodness. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you just need something nourishing, this soup is quick to prepare yet full of flavor. Your family will love the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 large celery stalk, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the chicken breast to the pot, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir it gently to coat the chicken with the herbs.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, and then add the sliced carrots and celery to the mixture.
- Close the lid securely and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes to capture all those delicious flavors.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks, turning it into tender, bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken back into the soup, then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and vibrant spinach leaves.
- Let the soup sit for a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully, then serve it up hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing step. If you love a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking. This soup also freezes well—store individual portions in airtight containers for easy meals later.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the Instant Pot for a speedy cooking experience, allowing for tender chicken and a rich broth in just minutes. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can simmer the soup on the stovetop for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables such as peas, zucchini, or green beans.
Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this soup is a perfect gluten-free option.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to nourish your body or simply warm up on a chilly day, this Instant Pot Healthy Lemon Chicken Soup is your go-to recipe. With its fresh ingredients and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy each cozy spoonful and share it with those you love!