Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make soup recipe that can be cooked in under an hour? Look no further than chicken tortilla soup, a classic Mexican-inspired dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. In this article, we will show you how to cook chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot, a pressure cooker that can help you prepare a variety of dishes quickly and easily.
What is Chicken Tortilla Soup?
Chicken tortilla soup is a type of soup that originated in Mexico and is made with shredded chicken, tortillas, vegetables, and a variety of spices. The soup is typically served with a variety of toppings, including shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips. Chicken tortilla soup is a popular dish in many parts of the world and is often served in restaurants and homes.
The Benefits of Cooking Chicken Tortilla Soup in an Instant Pot
There are several benefits to cooking chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot. Here are a few:
- Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot can cook chicken tortilla soup in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
- Easy to Make: The Instant Pot is a simple and easy-to-use pressure cooker that requires minimal effort to operate.
- Nutritious: Chicken tortilla soup is a nutritious dish that is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Customizable: The Instant Pot allows you to customize the recipe to your liking, adding or subtracting ingredients as desired.
Ingredients Needed
To make chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions for Cooking Chicken Tortilla Soup in an Instant Pot
Here are the steps to follow to cook chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot:
- Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the chicken to the pot and cook until it is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tortilla strips to the pot.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”.
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
- When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid of the Instant Pot and check that the chicken is cooked through and the soup is hot and bubbly.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crushed tortilla chips (if desired).
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot:
- Use Store-Bought Broth: If you don’t have time to make your own chicken broth, you can use store-bought broth instead.
- Add Other Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced carrots or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value.
- Use Different Types of Tortillas: You can use different types of tortillas, such as flour or whole wheat tortillas, to change the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Add Beans or Rice: You can add beans or rice to the soup to increase the protein and fiber content.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it is just cooked through, as overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough.
- Not Releasing the Pressure: Make sure to release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure, to avoid a mess.
- Not Seasoning the Soup: Make sure to season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, as this can make a big difference in the flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to make a delicious and nutritious meal. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create a tasty and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, the Instant Pot is a great tool to have in your kitchen, and chicken tortilla soup is a great recipe to get you started.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoy this recipe for chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or if you’d like any variations on this recipe. Happy cooking!
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6 | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes |
Note: Nutrition information is not included in this article.
What are the main ingredients required for this Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe?
The main ingredients required for this recipe include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, tortillas, and various spices. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado.
These ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores, and you may already have some of the pantry staples like spices and chicken broth at home. Make sure to choose high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of your soup.
How long does it take to cook the Chicken Tortilla Soup in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time for this recipe is relatively short, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and then you can cook the soup in the Instant Pot for 10-12 minutes. This includes the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. This will help prevent the soup from becoming too thick or the chicken from becoming tough. After that, you can shred the chicken and add any desired toppings before serving.
Can I customize the recipe to suit my taste preferences?
Yes, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you like spicy food, you can add diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the soup. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cumin or chili powder.
You can also add other ingredients to make the soup more substantial, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or black beans. Additionally, you can use different types of tortillas, such as corn or whole wheat, to change the flavor and texture of the soup.
Is it safe to cook chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, it is safe to cook chicken in an Instant Pot as long as you follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures. The Instant Pot is designed to cook food quickly and evenly, and it has built-in safety features to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
When cooking chicken in an Instant Pot, make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, but the cooking time will be longer. To make it in a slow cooker, brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
To make it on the stovetop, brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the soup has thickened.
How do I store leftovers of the Chicken Tortilla Soup?
You can store leftovers of the Chicken Tortilla Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To refrigerate, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets, such as gluten-free or low-carb?
This recipe is suitable for gluten-free diets, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you’re using store-bought chicken broth or tortillas, make sure to check the ingredients list for gluten.
For low-carb diets, you can modify the recipe by using low-carb tortillas or reducing the amount of tortillas used. You can also add more protein sources, such as beans or diced ham, to make the soup more substantial. Additionally, you can serve the soup with a side of low-carb toppings, such as diced avocado or sour cream.