Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. This Instant Pot Healthy Lemon Chicken Soup is not just easy to make, but it bursts with bright, zesty flavors that will uplift your spirits. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little pick-me-up, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Add the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped celery, carrots, onion, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in the lemon juice and spinach.
- Adjust salt to taste and let it sit for a few minutes to wilt the spinach.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest.
- You can substitute kale for spinach, if preferred.
- This soup freezes well, so feel free to make a batch ahead of time!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking this soup in the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and infuses the broth with rich flavors in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Is this soup gluten-free? Absolutely, all the ingredients are gluten-free.
- How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Conclusion
As the steam rises and the aroma fills your kitchen, this Instant Pot Healthy Lemon Chicken Soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Transforming simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish has never been easier. Enjoy each spoonful of this nourishing delight!