There’s something incredibly soothing about a bowl of warm soup, especially as the weather turns crisp and cool. That’s why I can’t wait to share my Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup with you. This rich, hearty dish is not just comforting; it’s packed with tender chicken, creamy sweetpotatoes, and nutty wild rice, all simmered to perfection with aromatic herbs. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal that brings friends and family together around the table.
Picture this: the enticing aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting a cozy dinner night, this soup strikes the ideal balance of savory and sweet, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-carb, so everyone can indulge without concern. Ready to dive into this deliciously easy recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup?
Comforting Warmth: Picture a steaming bowl of soup that wraps you in warmth. This dish is a go-to for chilly evenings, providing coziness in every spoonful.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes in the Instant Pot, you can whip up a wholesome meal without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Robust Flavor: The blend of sweetpotatoes, savory chicken, and rich wild rice creates a symphony of flavors, enhanced by aromatic herbs.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy all palates.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, this recipe caters to gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-carb diets without sacrificing taste.
Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This primary protein source provides heartiness; consider using thighs for extra flavor.
- Sliced Carrots – They add sweetness and texture; parsnips are a great substitute for a different flavor profile.
- Chopped Celery – Contributes crunch and flavor; feel free to replace with bell peppers for a twist.
- Diced Onion – Adds a base flavor with savory depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Cubed Peeled Sweetpotatoes – Sweetpotatoes provide sweetness and creaminess; butternut squash or regular potatoes work as substitutes.
- Chicken Broth – Provides the soup’s body and flavor; vegetable broth makes a fantastic vegetarian option.
For Seasoning
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of your broth.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth; white pepper can be used for a milder flavor.
- Poultry Seasoning – Introduces delightful herbal notes; Italian seasoning can easily replace it for a different profile.
- Dried Thyme – This aromatic herb complements chicken beautifully; fresh thyme is a lovely substitute.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a delicious umami flavor; switch to minced garlic for a fresher taste.
- Dried Parsley – Great for garnish and a mild flavor boost; using fresh parsley enhances presentation significantly.
For Texture
- Wild Rice – Offers a nutty flavor and delightful chewiness; quinoa is a quick-cooking alternative.
This Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, ideal for cozy nights and hearty gatherings.
How to Make Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup
- Combine Ingredients: Place all your ingredients—including chicken, carrots, celery, onion, sweetpotatoes, chicken broth, spices, and wild rice—into the Instant Pot. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly.
- Seal and Set: Secure the lid tightly, ensuring the vent is set to sealed. This step is crucial for building pressure, which allows your soup to cook quickly.
- Cook Under Pressure: Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. You’ll appreciate how the aromatic flavors meld together while the chicken becomes perfectly tender.
- Release Pressure: After cooking, switch the venting setting to release pressure carefully. Be cautious of the steam! This step allows your soup to settle and avoids any splatters.
- Shred and Stir: Once pressure is fully released, use two forks to shred the chicken right inside the pot. Stir the mixture well to combine all the lovely flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. Pair it with soup crackers or a slice of crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Optional: Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool down before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened after freezing, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. After this time, it’s best to refrigerate any remaining soup.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on hectic weeknights! You can chop your vegetables (sweetpotatoes, carrots, celery, and onion) and season them up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can place all ingredients (excluding the broth) into the Instant Pot insert, cover, and refrigerate immediately. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken broth, secure the lid, and cook as instructed. This way, you’ll still savor that mouthwatering flavor and comforting texture just as if you made it fresh!
Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup Variations
Get ready to personalize your soup experience with these delightful twists that elevate flavor and cater to your taste!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a fiery burst that jazzes up the entire dish. If you’re a fan of heat, this simple addition may become your new favorite!
- Leafy Greens Boost: Stir in some kale or fresh spinach at the end for a vibrant boost of color and nutrients. This not only enhances the health factor but also adds a lovely texture contrast.
- Corn Sweetness: Adding sweet corn kernels brings a delightful sweetness and pops of color to your soup. This makes each bite a little more exciting, especially for those who enjoy a sweet-savory blend!
- Flavor from the Sea: Toss in some cooked shrimp during the last few minutes for a unique twist that adds a rich layer of flavor. Combining chicken with seafood creates a harmony that’s hard to resist.
- Creamy Dream: For a creamier consistency, blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream after cooking. This transforms the soup into a luscious, velvety delight that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to brighten the flavor profile. A sprinkle just before serving can invigorate your taste buds and create an aromatic experience.
- Nutty Texture: Swap wild rice for quinoa or millet for a different texture. These grains cook quickly and contribute their own unique flavors, making the soup even more interesting.
- Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving to brighten the overall flavor. This simple addition can magically elevate your soup, giving it a refreshing twist!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup?
Looking to create a delightful meal experience with your nourishing soup? Pair these options to enhance its comforting flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread for dipping, allowing the soup’s rich flavors to soak into every bite. A perfect combo of textures!
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, balancing the soup’s warmth beautifully.
- Cheesy Garlic Crackers: These savory snacks add a crunchy texture and delightful cheeseiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables introduce a smokiness, adding depth and a touch of sweetness to complement the dish.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream provides a sweet finish, echoing the soup’s comforting essence.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light, fluffy quinoa tossed with herbs is a nutritious side that absorbs flavors, enhancing your overall meal experience.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay offers crisp acidity that brightens the palate, perfectly contrasting the soup’s hearty nature.
Enjoy these pairings to create a full, warm dinner spread that will leave everyone at your table feeling cozy and satisfied!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup
- Ingredient Prep: Gather and chop all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience, especially for the Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup.
- Avoid Soggy Rice: To prevent overcooking, ensure you adhere to the recommended cook time of 25 minutes, allowing the wild rice to maintain its chewy texture.
- Chicken Placement: Distribute the chicken evenly throughout the pot for consistent cooking and tenderness; this helps ensure every bite is satisfying.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for approximately 10 minutes after cooking for the best texture, especially benefiting the wild rice.
- Stir Gently: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix ingredients after shredding the chicken; this prevents scratching the Instant Pot’s surface, maintaining its longevity.
Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting sweetpotatoes?
Absolutely! When choosing sweetpotatoes, select those that are firm and smooth, with no dark spots or soft areas. A good sweetpotato should have an even color and a slightly glossy skin. Avoid any that feel too heavy for their size as they might be overly fibrous.
How should I store leftover soup?
You can store leftovers of your Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing it up to keep it fresh. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth or water if it’s thickened too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What if my wild rice isn’t cooking properly?
Very! If your wild rice isn’t cooking properly, it might be due to not having enough liquid. Make sure to include a sufficient amount of chicken broth to cover the rice by at least an inch. If it’s still crunchier than you like after the cook time, try adding a little extra broth and simmering on the sauté setting for a few minutes.
Is this soup suitable for dogs?
Yes, but with caution! The basic ingredients in the Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup—sweetpotatoes and chicken—are generally safe for dogs. However, avoid any seasonings like salt and pepper or high-fat ingredients. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure a specific recipe is appropriate for your furry friend.
How long can I keep the soup at room temperature?
It’s important to be cautious! The soup should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If your gathering lasts longer, consider using a slow cooker on warm or serving in small batches to keep it safe and delicious. After 2 hours, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers to keep everyone safe.
Instant Pot Sweetpotato, Chicken, and Wild Rice Soup Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all ingredients including chicken, carrots, celery, onion, sweetpotatoes, chicken broth, spices, and wild rice in the Instant Pot. Stir gently.
- Seal the lid tightly, ensuring the vent is set to sealed.
- Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Release pressure carefully using the venting setting.
- Shred the chicken inside the pot with two forks and stir to mix.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.