Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy and flavorful **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup**! This creamy, hearty soup delivers all the beloved flavors of a classic chicken pot pie, but in a convenient, quick-to-make, and utterly delicious soup form. Packed with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a soul-warming dish that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Forget the fuss of traditional baking; this “dump and start” Instant Pot recipe brings the magic of chicken pot pie to your table faster than you ever thought possible, with biscuits or crusty bread as the perfect accompaniment.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chicken pot pie, and this Instant Pot soup version takes all the classic flavors you love and transforms them into a quick, one-pot marvel. What makes this recipe truly special is its incredible ease and efficiency. Using an Instant Pot electric pressure cooker allows you to achieve the deep, slow-simmered taste of traditional chicken pot pie in a fraction of the time. The pressure cooker infuses the chicken and vegetables with incredible flavor, resulting in a rich and satisfying broth that tastes like it’s been cooking for hours.

This **creamy chicken soup** is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and homemade but are short on time. It’s a complete meal that’s both filling and nutritious, making it a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. Plus, the “dump and start” method means less chopping, less sautéing, and less cleanup, which is always a win in our book!

The Magic of “Dump and Start” Pressure Cooking

One of the biggest advantages of this **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup recipe** is its straightforward “dump and start” approach. Unlike stovetop versions where you might spend extra time sautéing vegetables or browning chicken, this recipe streamlines the process. You simply add all your ingredients directly into the Instant Pot, set it, and let the pressure cooker work its magic.

This method doesn’t just save time; it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully under pressure, resulting in a more cohesive and deeply flavorful soup. After the pressure cooking cycle, a quick sauté function is used to thicken the soup to that perfect, creamy consistency, ensuring every spoonful is rich and satisfying. If you prefer to add an extra layer of flavor, you can briefly sauté the vegetables in olive oil and unsalted butter for 2-3 minutes before adding the rest of the ingredients. While optional, this step can enhance the aromatic depth of the soup, and it’s a step I often take when I have a few extra moments.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Your Soup

The beauty of this **chicken pot pie soup** lies in its versatility, especially when it comes to the chicken. Almost any cut of chicken will yield delicious results, making it easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Whether you start with raw chicken or use up leftovers, this recipe is incredibly forgiving.

• **Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast:** This is my go-to choice for its lean protein and ease of shredding. It cooks up wonderfully tender in the Instant Pot.
• **Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs:** If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They tend to be more moist and flavorful, adding a richer dimension to the soup. A combination of both chicken breast and thighs can also provide a balanced texture and flavor.
• **Leftover Cooked Chicken:** To make this recipe even faster, incorporate pre-cooked, shredded chicken. This could be leftover roasted chicken, boiled chicken, or even rotisserie chicken. Simply add the cooked chicken after the pressure cooking cycle, before you thicken the soup, to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
• **Rotisserie Chicken:** A shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It’s already seasoned and cooked, saving you significant prep time and infusing the soup with extra flavor.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pot Pie Soup

A truly great chicken pot pie soup starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. This recipe combines classic components to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to comfort food heaven. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• **Chicken Breasts (or Thighs):** As discussed, boneless, skinless chicken is preferred for ease of shredding and consumption. Dark meat (thighs) will add more richness, while white meat (breasts) keeps it lighter.
• **Fresh Vegetables:** A vibrant mix of Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, peas, and celery forms the hearty base of this soup. Yukon gold potatoes hold their shape well and add a creamy texture, while carrots and celery provide essential sweetness and crunch. Frozen peas are added at the end to maintain their bright color and tender texture.
• **Garlic:** Freshly minced garlic cloves offer the best pungent flavor, but jarred minced garlic is a convenient substitute. In a pinch, garlic powder can also be used, though you might need slightly less as it’s more concentrated.
• **Thickener:** Achieving that classic creamy consistency is key. My preferred method is a simple flour and butter mixture (a roux), which creates a smooth, velvety texture. Alternatively, you can use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water) or an arrowroot starch slurry for a gluten-free option.
• **Chicken Stock (or Broth):** Use low-sodium chicken stock or broth to control the overall saltiness of the soup. Vegetable broth or even water can be used, but chicken stock provides the deepest flavor foundation.
• **Seasonings:** A blend of salt, black pepper, poultry seasoning, thyme, and rosemary brings the traditional pot pie essence to life. Adjust to your taste preferences. Poultry seasoning is a blend often containing sage, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, and nutmeg, which are all quintessential pot pie flavors.
• **Heavy Cream:** This is what gives the soup its luxurious creaminess. For a slightly lighter version, half and half or whole milk can be used. If you need a non-dairy option, coconut milk (full-fat for richness) or almond milk can work, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a fantastic time-saver. When cooking with frozen chicken in the Instant Pot, you will generally need to add about 5 minutes to the pressure cooking time. This adjustment accounts for the time it takes for the frozen chicken to thaw and come up to temperature before it begins to cook effectively. The exact additional time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes Best with Chicken Pot Pie Soup?

While Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup is undeniably hearty and satisfying on its own, it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Since it mimics the flavors of a classic pot pie, a bread component is almost mandatory for that authentic experience – perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth!

Beyond bread, consider these delightful pairings:

• **Green Salad:** A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. It’s a simple way to add some greens and brightness to your meal.
• **Fruit Salad:** A colorful and sweet fruit salad can be a lovely palate cleanser and a lighter side option.

The Best Breads to Serve with Your Soup

The best part about a soup like this is often the opportunity to dunk something delicious into its creamy depths. Here are some top bread choices:

• **Biscuits:** This is the quintessential accompaniment for any pot pie inspired dish. Whether you opt for canned biscuits for ultimate convenience, store-bought frozen biscuits, or your favorite homemade recipe, warm, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up the rich soup.
• **Puff Pastry Squares:** For a touch of elegance and a satisfying crunch, thaw a sheet of puff pastry and cut it into squares. Bake them according to package directions (usually around 425°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown), optionally brushing with an egg wash for a beautiful sheen. These airy, buttery squares can be placed directly on top of individual servings of soup.
• **Pie Crust:** While the soup naturally lacks a pie crust, you can recreate the experience by baking small pieces of pie crust (store-bought or homemade) and placing them on top of individual servings. For an extra special touch, you can even broil a small piece of crust directly on top of soup in heat-safe bowls until golden and bubbly.
• **Store-bought Frozen Dinner Rolls:** These are incredibly simple to prepare. Just allow them to thaw and rise slightly, then bake until golden. Their soft texture makes them ideal for dipping.
• **Crusty Bread:** A rustic loaf of artisan bread, sliced thickly, is always a winning choice for any hearty soup.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Making this creamy, delicious soup in your Instant Pot is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:

1. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, minced garlic, cubed potatoes, and raw chicken breasts (or thighs) directly into the inner pot of your Instant Pot.
2. **Season and Add Broth:** Sprinkle in the black pepper, kosher salt, thyme, minced fresh rosemary, and poultry seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers most of the ingredients. Do not stir.

3. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the steam release knob to the “Sealing” position (if it’s not self-sealing). Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) button and set the time to 8 minutes on High Pressure.
4. **Natural Release:** Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This helps the chicken stay tender. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the steam release knob to the “Venting” position to quick release any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid. *Pro Tip: If you’re serving with biscuits, this 10-minute natural release period is the perfect time to get them baking in the oven!*
5. **Shred the Chicken:** Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, a hand mixer can quickly shred the chicken for you. Set aside.
6. **Add Cream and Peas:** Stir the frozen peas and heavy cream (or your chosen dairy/non-dairy alternative) into the soup in the pot.

7. **Return Chicken and Sauté:** Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot.

8. **Prepare Thickener:** In a small pan on the stovetop or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a smooth paste (this is a roux). If using cornstarch or arrowroot, create a slurry by mixing the starch with an equal amount of cold water until smooth.
9. **Thicken the Soup:** Once the soup in the Instant Pot begins to simmer, gradually stir in the butter-flour paste (or slurry). Continue stirring gently until the soup reaches your desired thickness. The soup will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
10. **Serve:** Press “Cancel” to turn off the Sauté setting. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately with your favorite biscuits or crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your homemade **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup**!

Helpful Tips for the Best Pot Pie Soup

Achieving a perfect bowl of creamy chicken pot pie soup is simple with these additional tips:

• **Frozen Chopped Onions:** To save time on prep, feel free to use frozen chopped onions, readily available in the frozen food aisle of most supermarkets. They cook down beautifully in the soup.
• **Adding Pasta or Gnocchi:** For an even heartier meal, you can add noodles or gnocchi (fresh, frozen, or refrigerated) to the soup. Introduce them after the pressure cooking cycle, along with the peas and heavy cream. Use the Sauté setting to simmer until the pasta or gnocchi are cooked through to al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• **Dairy-Free Option:** This recipe can be easily adapted for those with dairy sensitivities. Simply substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a rich almond milk. Be aware that coconut milk may impart a slight coconut flavor, but it’s often subtle and complements the savory notes.
• **Gluten-Free Version:** To make this soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour used for thickening with an equal amount of cornstarch or arrowroot starch. Ensure you make a slurry (mix the starch with cold water) before adding it to the hot soup to prevent lumps.
• **Adjusting Consistency:** If your soup is too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your preferred consistency. If it’s not thick enough, you can create a small slurry with more cornstarch or flour and water, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.

Delicious Soup Variations to Try

While the classic **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup** is a winner, don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to customize it to your taste:

• **Sweet Potatoes:** For a different flavor profile and added nutritional benefits, swap out the Yukon gold potatoes for sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the savory elements of the soup.
• **Extra Creamy with Cream Cheese:** If you desire an even richer, more indulgent soup, stir in 4 to 8 ounces of cubed cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat) along with the heavy cream. Stir until completely melted and smooth for an incredibly velvety texture.
• **More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other favorite vegetables. Green beans, corn, mushrooms, or even chopped bell peppers can be excellent additions. You can use a bag of frozen mixed vegetables as a convenient substitute for some of the fresh vegetables like carrots and peas.
• **Fresh Herbs:** Elevate the aroma and taste with fresh herbs. A sprig of fresh thyme, rosemary, chopped parsley, or a pinch of sage added during the cooking or as a garnish can significantly brighten the flavors of your soup.
• **Cheesy Goodness:** Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra layer of savory flavor and gooey texture.
• **Spicy Kick:** For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a delightful kick to your soup.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Soup

This Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious leftovers safely.

• **Refrigeration:** Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure the soup has cooled completely to room temperature before transferring it to the container.
• **Freezing:** This **creamy chicken soup** freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping. It will remain good for 3-4 months in the freezer.
  • **To Freeze:** Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. These containers for freezing soup are highly recommended. Leave a little headspace if using containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
  • **To Reheat:** For best results, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in a microwave-safe dish until hot. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to do so over low heat on the stovetop, allowing it to thaw and warm through slowly, stirring frequently. You might need to add a splash of broth or milk to restore its original consistency.

Discover more delicious Instant Pot soup recipes:

• Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup
• Instant Pot Zuppa Toscana (Sausage Potato Soup)
• Instant Pot French Onion Soup

If you try this delightful **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup recipe**, please come back and let me know how it turned out! Your comments and star ratings are incredibly valuable and help other home cooks discover wonderful new recipes. Happy cooking!

More Quick and Easy Instant Pot Dinner Ideas

If you love the convenience and flavor of this **Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup**, you’ll be thrilled with these other easy and delicious comfort meals, perfect for busy evenings or when you need a hearty, fuss-free dinner:

• **Instant Pot Beef Stew:** Another incredible “dump and start” soup that is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Packed with tender beef and vegetables, it’s a hearty classic made simple in your pressure cooker.
• **Instant Pot Hamburger Stroganoff:** A beloved family favorite that comes together quickly. Creamy, flavorful, and incredibly comforting, it’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste.
• **Instant Pot Lasagna Soup:** Enjoy all the delicious layers and flavors of lasagna without the extensive preparation. This soup version is much easier and faster to make in the Instant Pot, delivering that classic Italian comfort in a bowl.
• **Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup:** A timeless classic! This version boasts fantastic flavor, succulent chicken, and is loaded with wholesome vegetables, making it the ultimate remedy for a cold day or a simple, comforting meal.
• **Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup:** If you’re a fan of creamy soups, you absolutely must try this one. It’s an incredibly satisfying and flavorful soup with tender chicken and soft gnocchi – truly a standout recipe!
• **Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings:** One of my most popular Instant Pot chicken recipes, this dish offers tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth, providing a deeply comforting and traditional meal with modern convenience.

Dutch Oven and Slow Cooker Soups You Might Enjoy

For those times you prefer a different cooking method, or simply want more delicious soup inspiration, here are some fantastic recipes for your Dutch oven or slow cooker:

My favorite Dutch Oven

My Favorite Slow Cooker

• **Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup:** A classic, hearty, and wholesome soup that cooks effortlessly throughout the day, filling your home with wonderful aromas.
• **Loaded Broccoli Cheese & Potato Soup:** Indulge in a rich, creamy, and satisfying soup loaded with broccoli, cheese, and potatoes – pure comfort in a bowl.
• **Crock Pot Mexican Corn Chicken Soup:** A vibrant and flavorful soup with a Tex-Mex twist, featuring tender chicken and sweet corn, perfect for a cozy weeknight.
• **Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup:** A decadent stovetop version of the popular chicken gnocchi soup, known for its rich, velvety texture and tender Italian dumplings.