Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe

Ingredients and Equipment

A list of essential ingredients

To make the best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you will need to gather the following essential ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups of chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving (optional)
Cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

As for the equipment, you will need:

Instant Pot pressure cooker or multi-cooker
Searing pan or skillet
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking utensils (spoon, spatula)

Note: Some of these ingredients and equipment may already be part of your pantry or kitchen staples.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

To make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
This type of chicken breast is ideal because it’s lean and easy to cook, making it perfect for soups.
You’ll want to choose chicken breasts that are free of any visible fat or tendons, as these can make the soup unpleasantly textured.
For the equipment needed to prepare this recipe:
An Instant Pot is the primary cooking vessel, which will allow you to quickly and easily cook the ingredients under high pressure.
A large skillet can be used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and other aromatics before adding them to the Instant Pot.
A cutting board and sharp knife are necessary for chopping the onions, bell peppers, and any other vegetables that will be added to the soup.
A measuring cups and spoons will come in handy when measuring out the ingredients, such as the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices.

1 onion, diced

The following are the essential ingredients required to prepare a delicious and authentic Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup:

For this recipe, you will need:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
4 cups of chicken broth (you can use low-sodium broth or make your own)
1 onion, diced (about 2 medium-sized onions will yield this amount)
3 cloves of garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons worth)
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
The equipment required to cook this recipe in the Instant Pot is:
An Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker with a sauté function and manual release valve.
A large cutting board for chopping vegetables
A sharp chef’s knife for chopping onions, bell peppers, and garlic
A spoon or spatula for stirring the soup during cooking
A ladle for serving
For serving, you will also need:
Tortilla chips (store-bought or homemade)
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced radishes

3 cloves garlic, minced

To make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium red bell peppers, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving (optional)
Cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

To make this recipe, you will also need the following equipment:

Large knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon for stirring
Ladle for serving

1 red bell pepper, diced

The ingredients required for this Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe are quite straightforward and accessible. To begin with, we will need one red bell pepper, which should be diced into small pieces. The sweetness of the red bell pepper adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken and spices.

In addition to the red bell pepper, we will also require some essential pantry staples that include one onion, minced; three cloves of garlic, minced; a can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); two cups of chicken broth; one can of black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz); one teaspoon of chili powder; half a teaspoon of ground cumin; salt and pepper to taste; shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well) for serving; and tortilla chips or crushed tortillas for garnish.

For the equipment needed, we have the Instant Pot, which is an electric pressure cooker that will help us cook this delicious chicken tortilla soup quickly and efficiently. We also need a cutting board for chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic; a chef’s knife for slicing these ingredients into desired sizes; and a spatula for stirring the mixture during cooking.

Having all of these ingredients and equipment ready to go will make it easy to follow along with this Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal in no time!

2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)

To make this delicious Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups chicken broth (low sodium), warmed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/4 cup chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
6-8 tortillas (flour or corn), cut into thin strips for serving

Optional: sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro, and diced bell peppers for toppings

Equipment:
A 30-minute timer capable Instant Pot
A large saute pan or skillet
A spoon or spatula for stirring and serving

1 can diced tomatoes

The key ingredients for this recipe include:

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, which provide a flavorful and tangy base for the soup. These canned diced tomatoes are pre-cooked and easy to incorporate into the recipe.

For the chicken component:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
2 cloves garlic, minced.
For additional flavor and depth:
1 teaspoon cumin, which adds a warm and earthy taste.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, providing a smoky undertone.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), for some heat.
1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing the chicken.

The aromatics and spices are combined with:

4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium or homemade as desired.
8 ounces diced green chilies, such as Anaheim or Poblano peppers, adding a mild to medium heat level.
8-10 corn tortillas (6-inch), preferably whole wheat for added nutrition and flavor. You can also use gluten-free or low-carb options if needed.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for garnish and added freshness.
1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, optional, as a topping to add creaminess and richness.

As for the equipment necessary for this Instant Pot recipe:

A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot (such as the Duo or Ultra models).
A cutting board.
A knife for chopping garlic and herbs.
A spoon, spatula, and tongs for handling chicken and tortillas within the pot.
A paper towel to clean up excess fat from the broth after cooking (if using high-fat chicken).

1 teaspoon cumin

The Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe requires a combination of aromatic spices, flavorful broth, and tender chicken to create a hearty and delicious meal.

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Cumin: 1 teaspoon – This earthy spice is a staple in Mexican cuisine and adds depth to the soup. Use high-quality cumin powder for the best flavor.
Chicken broth: 4 cups – You can use low-sodium broth or make your own by simmering chicken bones in water.
Canned diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can – Look for tomatoes that are labeled “fire-roasted” or “san marzano” for added flavor.
Diced onion: 1 medium – You can use fresh or frozen onion, but make sure to thaw it first if using frozen.
Garlic: 3 cloves – Like cumin, garlic is a fundamental spice in Mexican cuisine and adds a pungent flavor to the soup.
Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) – This herb adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the soup.
Diced chicken breast or thighs: 1 pound – Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for this recipe. You can also use bone-in chicken if you prefer.

For cooking and serving, you will need the following equipment:

Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker is a must-have for making soups quickly and efficiently. Look for an Instant Pot with at least 7-in-1 functionality.
Immersion blender or regular blender: You can use either of these blenders to puree the soup for a creamier texture.
Cooking pot or Dutch oven: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this recipe on the stovetop or in a slow cooker using a large cooking pot or Dutch oven.

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

To make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need to gather a variety of ingredients and equipment.

The ingredients for this recipe are:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving (optional)

The equipment you’ll need includes:

Instant Pot pressure cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Large spoon or spatula for stirring
Serving bowls

Make sure to have all the ingredients measured out and ready to go before starting the recipe, as the Instant Pot cooks quickly!

The necessary equipment

When making a delicious and comforting Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, it’s essential to have the right ingredients and equipment on hand.

Ingredients

To make this mouth-watering soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Aromatics: 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
Canned goods: 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Spices and seasonings: 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste
Broth and water: 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water
Tortillas: 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
Cheese (optional): shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for topping

The necessary equipment

To make this recipe in the Instant Pot, you will need the following equipment:

Instant Pot: any model of Instant Pot with a “Saute” function
Cutlery and tools: chef’s knife; cutting board; measuring cups and spoons; wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Pot holders and oven mitts: to safely remove the Instant Pot from the stovetop or handle it when hot
Serving dishes and utensils: bowls, spoons, and tortilla chips for serving

Make sure you have all the necessary equipment and ingredients before starting to cook. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

Instant Pot pressure cooker

In order to make a delicious and authentic Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you will need some essential ingredients and equipment. Here are the necessary items:

Ingredients

Protein: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Aromatics: 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; and 1 medium bell pepper, diced
Canned goods: 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes; 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed; and 4 cups chicken broth
Savory spices: 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; and 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Other ingredients: 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; salt and pepper, to taste; 6-8 corn tortillas (for serving); shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and any other desired toppings

Equipment

Instant Pot pressure cooker: This is the main appliance you’ll use to cook your soup. Make sure it’s in good working condition and has a spring-form lid.
Stovetop or electric stove: You may need this for sautéing the aromatics and cooking the tortillas at the end.
Cutlery and utensils: A chef’s knife, cutting board, tongs, slotted spoon, spatula, and wooden spoons for mixing.
Measuring cups and spoons: You’ll need these for accurately measuring out the ingredients. Dry measures are best for dry ingredients like spices.
Large serving bowls or ladle: This is where you’ll serve your delicious soup.

Note that some of these items may already be in your kitchen, so don’t worry if you see a familiar face. The key is to have the essential ingredients and equipment on hand to make this recipe a success!

Cutting board and knives

The foundation of any exceptional soup begins with high-quality ingredients and appropriate equipment. For this delectable Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you will require a variety of kitchen essentials.

When it comes to preparing the soup’s base, chicken breast or thighs are recommended as the protein source. The leaner breast offers a lighter flavor, while the more robust thighs provide a richer taste. For this recipe, boneless and skinless chicken breasts will suffice.

The addition of aromatic vegetables adds depth and complexity to the broth. Onions and garlic form the backbone of most soups, so it is essential to have sharp knives for chopping these ingredients. A high-quality chef’s knife or a paring knife can effectively slice through onions without crushing them, ensuring they retain their flavor.

Garlic cloves require a bit more finesse due to their compact size and delicate texture. For precise cutting, an angled paring knife or a microplane is ideal for peeling the garlic skin off.

The acidity in tomatoes provides a necessary balance to the richness of the chicken broth. Diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can be used, depending on your desired level of chunkiness in the finished soup.

For an authentic Mexican flavor, a pinch of cumin powder is vital. You can also add some smoked paprika for added smokiness and heat with red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

A good Instant Pot is crucial for this recipe as it allows you to pressure cook the soup in just 10-15 minutes, resulting in fall-off-the-bone chicken and perfectly tender vegetables. Additionally, the Instant Pot’s sauté function enables you to brown the onions and garlic before adding other ingredients.

Lastly, a set of cutting boards is necessary for this recipe. A large cutting board is ideal for chopping vegetables, while a smaller one can be used for finely chopping herbs or garlic. A bamboo or wooden cutting board helps prevent damage to knives and also provides a comfortable surface for chopping.

When preparing this Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, the quality of your ingredients and equipment significantly impacts the final product’s flavor and presentation. By investing in the best kitchen essentials, you will be rewarded with a delicious and satisfying meal that your family and friends will enjoy.

Measuring cups and spoons

To make the Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the soup: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the tortilla strips: 6-8 corn tortillas
Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
As for the equipment:
Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowls
Cutting board
Knife
Spoonula
Silicone spatulas (optional)
Tongs or slotted spoon
Additionally, you may want to have some optional ingredients on hand:
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Cream or half-and-half (for a creamy soup)
Diced jalapeños or other hot peppers (for added heat)
Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients and equipment ready before starting the recipe, as it will move quickly once you add the ingredients to the Instant Pot.

Instructions for Cooking

Step-by-Step Process in the Instant Pot

The art of cooking a delicious and comforting soup like chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot is not only easy but also straightforward if you follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Searing the Onion and Garlic

To begin, press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot to heat up the pot. Once it’s hot, add a couple of tablespoons of oil to the pot and swirl it around to coat the bottom.

Add a medium-sized onion that has been diced into small pieces to the pot. Let it cook until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add two cloves of minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, making sure not to burn it.

Step 2: Adding Aromatics

Add one teaspoon of ground cumin and one teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional) to the pot. Let them cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to release their aroma.

Step 3: Adding Chicken and Stock

Pour in two cups of chicken broth into the pot followed by two boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been diced into small pieces. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.”

Step 4: Pressure Cooking the Soup

Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button on your Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for five minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally (NPR) for ten minutes before opening the lid manually.

Step 5: Shredding Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside until you’re ready to assemble the soup.

Step 6: Adding Tortillas and Seasonings

Add six corn tortillas that have been diced into small pieces along with a teaspoon of salt and a half-teaspoon of black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 7: Assembling and Serving the Soup

Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir gently to combine it with the tortillas and stock.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed before ladling it into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced radishes, or crumbled queso fresco for added flavor and texture.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting chicken tortilla soup in your Instant Pot!

Press the “Saute” button to heat the pot.

To cook delicious chicken tortilla soup using an Instant Pot, start by pressing the “Saute” button to heat the pot.

This initial step is crucial as it helps to establish a smooth and efficient cooking process. By preheating the Instant Pot with the saute function, you’re ensuring that the ingredients cook evenly and quickly.

The sauté function works by using a combination of heat from the bottom of the pot and the heating element on the side. This creates a gentle simmering effect that’s perfect for cooking aromatics like onions and garlic.

As soon as you’ve activated the Saute button, wait for about 2-3 minutes to allow the pot to heat up completely. You’ll know it’s ready when the display shows “HOT” and the inner pot has reached a temperature of around 180°F (82°C).

During this time, you can start preparing any additional ingredients that need to be chopped or sliced. This might include onions, bell peppers, garlic, or tomatoes, depending on your personal preferences for the soup.

Once the pot is hot, add a small amount of oil to prevent food from sticking and to promote even cooking. You can use any type of oil you prefer, such as olive, coconut, or vegetable oil.

Now that everything is set up and the pot is heated, it’s time to start adding ingredients. Begin with aromatics like onions and garlic, sautéing them until they’re softened and fragrant.

Add diced onion, cook until softened.

To prepare this delicious Instant Pot chicken tortilla soup recipe, you will need to follow a series of steps that require attention to detail and some basic cooking skills.

The first step involves sautéing the diced onion until it is softened. To do this, heat a tablespoon or two of oil in the Instant Pot’s sauté function on medium-high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the diced onion and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

While the onion is cooking, you can start preparing the other ingredients needed for the soup. This may include dicing chicken breast or thighs, chopping bell peppers, mincing garlic, and slicing tortillas into strips.

Once the onion is softened, add a teaspoon of ground cumin to the pot and stir well to combine with the onion. Allow the mixture to cook for another minute, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.

Next, add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This will help to lock in moisture and flavor throughout the cooking process.

Once the chicken is browned, add the remaining ingredients to the Instant Pot, including broth, diced tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, minced garlic, and any desired spices or seasonings.

Nest the tortilla strips into the pot, making sure they are covered with the liquid. If necessary, you can use a spoon to gently press the tortillas down into the soup.

Finally, close the Instant Pot’s lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Press the “manual” or “pressure cook” button and set the cooking time to 10-15 minutes at high pressure. Let the Instant Pot do its magic and create a delicious, hot chicken tortilla soup for you to enjoy.

Add minced garlic, cook for 1 minute.

To prepare a delicious and flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these steps:

Cooking Instructions

Heat oil in the Instant Pot by pressing the “Saute” button and selecting “Normal” mode. Let it heat up for about 1-2 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. The aroma of garlic will fill the air, getting you excited for the flavors that are about to unfold!
Next, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add the chicken breast or thighs to the Instant Pot and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the browned meat from the pot and set it aside for later use.
Add the diced bell peppers (any color), chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and close the lid of the Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing” mode.
Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure. Let the Instant Pot do its magic!
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5-10 minutes before opening the lid.
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Add the shredded chicken back into the soup.
1 Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add some tortilla chips or avocado on top for added flavor and texture.
Now, your Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup is ready to be devoured! Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Mexican-inspired soup.

Add chicken breasts, brown on both sides.

To cook delicious and tender chicken for your Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, follow these steps carefully.

Add chicken breasts

Place 1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. You can use fresh or frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it first if it’s frozen.

Brown on both sides

Press the ‘Saute’ button on your Instant Pot and let it heat up for 2-3 minutes. Place the chicken breasts in the pot and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re browned evenly.

This step is crucial in developing a rich flavor in the soup. By browning the chicken, you create a nice crust on the surface that will add depth to the dish when you simmer it later.

Once you’ve browned the chicken, remove it from the pot and set it aside for now. We’ll come back to it later in the recipe.

Add remaining ingredients: chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.

To complete this delicious and easy-to-make Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, follow these next steps.

Add 1 cup of chicken broth to the Instant Pot, making sure not to overfill it. This will help to prevent any accidents or spills during cooking.

Next, add in 2 cups of diced tomatoes. You can use fresh or canned tomatoes, depending on your preference and what’s available at the store.

Now it’s time to add the spices that give this soup its flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Cumin has a warm, earthy taste while chili powder adds a spicy kick, so they complement each other perfectly in this recipe.

Close the lid of your Instant Pot, making sure it’s securely locked in place. This will help to build up pressure inside the pot and ensure that your soup cooks evenly and quickly.

Set the valve on the Instant Pot to “Sealing”. This will allow the pressure to build up inside the pot as the soup cooks, which is an essential step for cooking tender and flavorful meat in a short amount of time.

Cooking Time and Pressure Release

Cooking delicious chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail, particularly when it comes to cooking time and pressure release.

The first step in making this recipe is to prepare all the ingredients. This includes browning the chicken with some oil until it’s golden brown, sautéing onions, garlic, and jalapenos for added flavor, and adding the remaining ingredients like diced tomatoes, chicken broth, beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, tortillas, and shredded cheese.

Once all the ingredients are in place, it’s time to cook the soup. To do this, close the lid of your Instant Pot, making sure the steam release handle is set to ‘sealing’. Press the ‘manual’ or ‘pressure cook’ button and adjust the cooking time to 10-15 minutes at high pressure.

During this time, the Instant Pot will work its magic by subjecting the ingredients to high pressure. This process breaks down the proteins in the chicken, tenderizing it and infusing all the flavors together. The result is a rich and savory broth that’s full of texture and flavor.

When the cooking time has elapsed, allow the Instant Pot to release its pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together further and makes it easier to remove the steam from the lid without any accidents or messes.

Once the pressure has been released, you can carefully open the lid of your Instant Pot and check if the chicken is cooked through. If not, cover the pot again and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Finally, add some fresh cilantro, scallions, or any other desired garnishes to give your soup a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with tortillas on the side for dipping, shredded cheese for sprinkling, and enjoy!

Cook for 1012 minutes at high pressure.

To cook the chicken tortilla soup in an Instant Pot using the provided recipe, follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results.

Cooking Time and Pressure

The first step involves cooking for 10-12 minutes at high pressure. This time frame allows for the chicken to become tender and the vegetables to be cooked through.

Why High Pressure?

High pressure is essential in an Instant Pot because it enables quick cooking times by allowing steam to build up inside the pot, resulting in faster cooking of the food without losing nutrients. The pressure also helps to break down connective tissues in meat, making it tender and easier to digest.

The Importance of Cooking Time

Cooking for 10-12 minutes at high pressure is crucial for achieving a delicious and safe meal. If you undercook the soup, it may not be palatable or pose health risks due to undercooked meat or underheated ingredients.

Understanding High Pressure in Instant Pots

In an Instant Pot, high pressure is achieved by closing the lid and turning the valve to ‘sealing’. The electric control then builds up pressure inside the pot. This process can be intimidating for beginners, but following a reliable recipe like this one ensures you’re using the right settings.

Remember to always refer to your Instant Pot user manual or online instructions for specific details on operating the device. Additionally, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with safety guidelines and precautions when working with high-pressure cooking equipment.

Once the 10-12 minute cooking period has elapsed, you can proceed with releasing pressure naturally (NPR) and then quick-releasing the remaining pressure (QPR). This allows for a safe way to release steam from the pot, preventing accidents or injuries.

Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes then quickrelease any remaining pressure.

After the cooking cycle has completed, it’s essential to allow the Instant Pot to release its built-up pressure naturally for a period of 5 minutes.

This step is crucial as it enables the safe and efficient release of any remaining steam inside the cooker, helping to prevent accidental scalds or other safety hazards.

Natural pressure release allows the pressure in the pot to decrease gradually, which helps to redistribute the flavors evenly throughout the soup and prevents any ingredients from becoming mushy or overcooked.

After the 5-minute natural pressure release has elapsed, you should carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to the “quick-release” position.

This step will allow any remaining steam to be released rapidly, ensuring that your Instant Pot returns to a safe and normal operating pressure as quickly as possible.

It’s essential to note that this final release of pressure should be done carefully, as the steam may still be very hot and potentially cause burns or other injuries if not handled properly.

Once the remaining pressure has been released, you can safely remove the lid and proceed with serving your delicious chicken tortilla soup, garnished with your choice of toppings and fixings.

Tips and Variations

Customizing the Recipe

In this section, we’ll explore various tips and variations for customizing the Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Tips

To enhance the flavor of the soup, add a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder before cooking. This will give it a more authentic Southwestern taste.

For an added layer of depth, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers in a tablespoon of olive oil until softened before adding the chicken. This step can be skipped if you prefer to cook the aromatics directly in the Instant Pot.

If you like your soup thicker, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water or broth before adding it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Stir well and let the mixture simmer until thickened.

To add some heat to your soup, include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers in the sauté step or add a dash of cayenne pepper towards the end of cooking.

Customizing the Recipe

Add cooked beans (black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans) to make it a hearty bean soup. You can also use canned beans for convenience.
Swap out chicken breast for thighs or a combination of both for a juicier and more tender texture.
For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or potatoes to make it a vegetable-rich soup.
Add some smoky flavor by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or smoked paprika into your soup.
Make it a low-carb option by using almond flour tortillas or cauliflower tortillas instead of traditional corn tortillas.

Add tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Add some crunch to your soup by sprinkling tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips on top before serving. This adds a satisfying texture contrast that complements the tender chicken and vegetables.
For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a pinch of cumin powder or smoked paprika to the pot along with the onion and garlic in step These spices will infuse a rich, smoky flavor into your soup.
Experiment with different types of protein: feel free to substitute chicken breast or thighs with diced beef, pork, or even fish for a seafood-inspired twist.
Add some heat to your soup by incorporating diced jalapenos or serrano peppers in the pot along with the onion and garlic. This will give your soup a spicy kick that’s perfect for those who like a little heat.
For a vegan version of this recipe, omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead. Also, be sure to swap out the chicken for a plant-based protein source such as tofu or tempeh.
To make this recipe more substantial, add some cooked rice, beans, or diced potatoes to the pot along with the vegetables in step This will increase the fiber and nutrient content of your soup, making it a satisfying meal option.

Use different types of peppers (e.g. jalapeño, Anaheim).

When it comes to adding some excitement to our Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, one way to do so is by experimenting with different types of peppers. The original recipe calls for diced green chilies and jalapeños, but you can easily swap them out for other pepper varieties to change up the flavor profile.

For example, Anaheim peppers have a sweet and slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with the rich flavors of chicken and tortillas. If you like a bit of heat without overpowering the rest of the soup, Anaheim peppers are an excellent choice. Simply slice them thinly and add them to the pot along with the other aromatics.

On the other hand, if you want to turn up the heat in your Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup, you can use hotter peppers like Serrano or habanero instead of jalapeños. Keep in mind that these peppers are much more potent than jalapeños, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Another option is to combine different types of peppers for a layered flavor experience. For instance, you could add some diced Anaheim peppers alongside the jalapeños for a mix of sweetness and heat. Alternatively, use some milder peppers like bell peppers or Poblano and add them to the pot along with the more potent peppers.

Remember that when working with different types of peppers, it’s essential to consider their Scoville heat units (SHU) – a measure of their heat level. Jalapeños have an SHU rating of around 2,500-8,000, while Anaheim peppers are significantly milder with an SHU rating of 500-1,00 If you’re unsure about the heat level or flavor profile of a particular pepper, start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment and come up with your own unique pepper combinations. With so many varieties available, the options are endless – and who knows? You might discover a new favorite flavor combination in the process!

Substitute chicken with turkey or beef for a variation in protein.

To add some variety to this Best Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe, consider substituting chicken with other proteins such as turkey or beef.

Turkey is a great option if you’re looking for a leaner protein source and can be cooked just as easily in the Instant Pot. Simply replace the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with equal-sized pieces of turkey breast and proceed with the rest of the recipe.

Beef, on the other hand, adds a heartier flavor to the soup. You can use beef brisket or beef shank for added depth of flavor. If using beef, increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure that the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

To further enhance the flavor of your soup, you can also add some diced bacon or pancetta to give it a smoky undertone. This adds a nice depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

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Percival Langley

Gourmet Expert at myfab5.com

Percival Langley, the creative force behind this site, holds the unique and delectable title of Gourmet Expert. With a passion for elevating the culinary experiences of our furry companions, Percival shares delightful and nutritious recipes that go beyond the ordinary. His site is a go-to resource for pet owners seeking to pamper their pets with gourmet treats and meals. Percival's expertise in crafting delicious and health-conscious pet cuisine is evident in the tasteful and innovative content he curates. For those who believe in treating their pets to a culinary adventure, Percival Langley's site is a flavorful journey into the world of gourmet pet delights.

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