Cozy Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup Recipe

Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, wrapping you in cozy flavors that dance on your taste buds. The tender chicken mingles with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked orzo, creating a delightful symphony of taste that makes every spoonful an adventure. Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos.

Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the smell of garlic wafts through the house as you whip up this scrumptious soup. Memories come flooding back of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and bowls overflowed with warmth. Perfect for any occasion, this Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup promises to be your new go-to dish when you want comfort in a bowl! For more inspiration, check out this whipped Greek yogurt recipe.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta adds texture; cook it perfectly so it doesn’t turn mushy.
• Fresh Garlic: The more garlic, the better! Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the soup; bottled just won’t cut it!
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while enhancing flavor.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrition; it wilts beautifully into the hot soup.
• Dried Oregano: A classic herb in Greek cuisine that infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a splash of olive oil, then toss in minced garlic until fragrant—about one minute should do. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 2: Add Chicken

Throw in those boneless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Sauté for about five minutes until they are lightly browned on each side.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and add fresh lemon juice along with dried oregano. Give everything a good stir while scraping up any tasty brown bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Seal your Instant Pot lid, set it to manual (high pressure) for eight minutes, then let it naturally release pressure for another ten minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.

Step 5: Add Orzo and Spinach

Once safe to open, remove the chicken breasts (don’t worry; they’ll be back!). Stir in orzo pasta along with fresh spinach. Close the lid again for five minutes on sauté mode until orzo is al dente.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

While waiting for that orzo magic, shred your now-tender chicken using two forks. Return shredded chicken back into the pot and give everything a final stir.

Serve up steaming bowls topped with extra lemon slices if desired! Enjoy this delightful soup as you reminisce about those cozy family moments just don’t forget to share!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the orzo while preparing the broth. This sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed and deliciously infused with that Greek magic.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the vegetables or add your favorite herbs. Want it spicier? Toss in some crushed red pepper! Don’t hesitate to get creative with this dish; it’s all about personal flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.

Sometimes I whip up this Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup when I need a cozy meal after a long day, and it always gets rave reviews from my family! For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup?

To make Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup, you will need boneless chicken breasts, orzo pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, olive oil, and Greek seasoning. Fresh parsley and lemon juice are great for garnishing. This flavorful combination creates a wholesome dish that warms you up on cold days. Ensure you have all the ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process to streamline your time in the kitchen.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup?

Cooking Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup is quick and efficient. The actual cooking time is about 10 minutes under high pressure. However, consider an additional 10 minutes for the pot to come to pressure and another few minutes for the steam to release naturally afterward. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Wraps This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I use other types of pasta in this soup?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta in your Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup. While orzo provides a unique texture and flavor, alternatives like small shells or ditalini work well too. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta choice. Adjust the liquid amount if needed to ensure your soup remains hearty and delicious.

Is Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup healthy?

Absolutely! Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup is both nutritious and satisfying. It combines lean protein from the chicken with vitamins from fresh vegetables like carrots and celery. The inclusion of whole grains from orzo adds fiber to your meal. Moreover, using low-sodium chicken broth can help keep sodium levels in check while allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish guilt-free.

Conclusion for Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup :

Instant Pot Greek Orzo and Chicken Soup is a delightful recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients for a comforting meal. With its quick cooking time in the Instant Pot, it’s perfect for busy families seeking nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Caprese Stuffed Chicken The balance of tender chicken, hearty orzo, and vibrant vegetables makes it an appealing choice year-round. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and lemon juice for added brightness! Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish any night of the week.