Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup

Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken, rich cream, and vibrant spinach into a delightful bowl of goodness. This soup is perfect for weeknight meals, offering a quick and easy solution for busy families looking for something nutritious yet satisfying. The creamy texture, combined with the savory notes of herbs and spices, creates a harmonious blend that appeals to both adults and children. What sets this recipe apart is its versatility; it can be served as a cozy dinner or a filling lunch. Whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup is sure to impress with its rich flavor and creamy consistency, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are several reasons why Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup is a must-try. First, the flavor profile is simply unbeatable. The combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy broth creates a unique taste that is both comforting and satisfying. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of savory and creamy elements that will have everyone coming back for more. Second, the ease of preparation is a significant draw. With the Instant Pot, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal in a fraction of the time it would typically take. Just set your ingredients, let the pot work its magic, and you’ll have a delicious soup ready in no time. Third, the texture is incredibly appealing. The creaminess of the soup is perfectly complemented by the tender chunks of chicken and vibrant spinach, making each bite a delightful experience. Finally, the versatility of this soup is noteworthy. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with your favorite bread or salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients :

To prepare Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken Breast : You’ll need about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast. This lean protein serves as the main ingredient, providing a hearty base for the soup. When cooked in the Instant Pot, the chicken becomes tender and easily shreds, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the broth while adding a satisfying texture to each spoonful.
Fresh Spinach : A generous 4 cups of fresh spinach will add vibrant color and a wealth of nutrients to your soup. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants. When added to the soup, it wilts beautifully, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish.
Chicken Broth : Use 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth as the base for your soup. This ingredient infuses the dish with a rich, savory flavor while keeping it moist. Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup, making it a healthier option for everyone.
Heavy Cream : Add 1 cup of heavy cream for the signature creaminess that defines this soup. The cream not only enriches the texture but also balances the flavors beautifully, creating a luscious mouthfeel that elevates the dish to a comforting level.
Onion : One medium onion, finely chopped, will add depth and sweetness to the soup. When sautéed, onions caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sugars and providing a wonderful aroma that sets the stage for the rest of the flavors to develop.
Garlic : Two cloves of minced garlic will infuse the soup with a robust flavor. Garlic is known for its health benefits and aromatic qualities, making it a perfect addition to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Italian Seasoning : Use 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, a blend of dried herbs that typically includes basil, oregano, and thyme. This seasoning adds an aromatic quality to the soup and elevates its flavor profile, giving it a warm, comforting essence.
Salt and Pepper : Season to taste with salt and pepper. These essential seasonings will help to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, making each bite balanced and satisfying.
Parmesan Cheese : Adding ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese at the end enhances the soup’s flavor, adding a nutty richness that complements the creaminess. It also gives a lovely finish to the soup when served.

Step by Step :

Follow these detailed steps to create your Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup:

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic, ensuring everything is ready for a smooth cooking process. Gather your chicken breast, spinach, broth, cream, and seasonings.
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a splash of water or a light cooking oil if desired. Once the pot is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become aromatic without burning. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your soup.
Next, add the chicken breast to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is submerged in the broth for even cooking.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. The pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release by turning the valve to venting. Allow the steam to escape, and once the pressure is fully released, open the lid.
Remove the chicken breast from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step allows the chicken to better absorb the soup’s flavors.
Return the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer using the sauté function. This will help to meld the flavors together as the soup warms up.
Once the soup is simmering, add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and becomes bright green, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step adds freshness and nutrients to your soup.
Finally, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts completely, adding another layer of creaminess and flavor. Taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired. Pair it with your favorite bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Variations:

There are many ways to customize your Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup to suit your taste preferences. Here are some creative ideas:

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions. This addition will give your soup a delightful heat that pairs excellently with the creamy base.
If you prefer a different protein, try using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast. Simply add it to the pot along with the broth and cream, reducing the cooking time to just 5 minutes to heat through.
To enhance the flavor profile even further, incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts. These ingredients add a tangy twist that complements the creaminess, making the soup even more exciting.
For a lower-calorie version, substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk. This will still provide a creamy texture while reducing the overall richness of the soup.
Consider adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Sauté these vegetables along with the onions, allowing them to soften and develop flavor before adding the broth.
If you want a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before stirring in the spinach and cream. This technique will create a creamy consistency while still keeping some texture from the chicken and vegetables.
Experiment with different herbs by adding fresh basil or cilantro as a garnish. This will brighten the soup’s flavor and add a fresh touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
For a unique twist, serve the soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. This will transform the soup into a filling dish while adding another layer of texture.

Serving Suggestions:

To enjoy your Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup to the fullest, consider the following serving suggestions:

Serve the soup with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. The bread will soak up the creamy broth beautifully, creating a satisfying combination.
This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner and makes an excellent choice for gatherings or family meals. Its hearty nature ensures that everyone will leave the table satisfied.
For a seasonal twist, pair the soup with a fresh garden salad topped with seasonal vegetables, or serve it alongside a light pasta salad for a refreshing contrast.
If you’re hosting for Ramadan or special occasions, consider presenting the soup as an appetizer. Its creamy texture and rich flavor will set the tone for a delightful meal.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
This soup can also be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
As an alternative serving style, consider topping each bowl with freshly cracked black pepper, a sprinkle of parmesan, or fresh herbs for an appealing presentation that elevates the dish.

FAQ:

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers of your Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding more broth if necessary.

What can I serve with this soup?

Consider pairing Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or light pasta. These sides complement the creamy soup and create a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The total time to prepare Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup is approximately 30-40 minutes, including prep and cooking time. The Instant Pot’s efficiency allows you to enjoy a homemade meal in a fraction of the time it would normally take.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Creamy Instant Pot Crack Chicken Spinach Soup. Just increase the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes on high pressure, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. Shred the chicken once it’s done cooking.