Instant Pot Asian Chicken Noodle Bowl Recipe for Busy Families
When life gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. Luckily, the Instant Pot Asian chicken noodle bowl recipe for busy families is here to save the day. This delicious and nutritious dish packs a punch of flavors while being incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces rice noodles
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by pressing the ‘Sauté’ button on your Instant Pot. Add sesame oil and allow it to heat up for a minute.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn them.
- Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce, then stir to combine everything.
- Add the rice noodles on top of the chicken mixture. Do not stir; simply submerge the noodles into the broth as much as possible.
- Top the noodles with the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Again, do not stir; just place them on top.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ and set the time for 5 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully moving the valve to ‘Venting’.
- Open the lid and give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients. The noodles should be cooked and the chicken tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families
The beauty of the Instant Pot Asian chicken noodle bowl recipe lies in its simplicity. Not only does it cut down cooking time significantly, but it also reduces the number of dishes you need to clean afterward. All the ingredients come together in one pot, making it a hassle-free option for those hectic weeknights.
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your family’s preferences. Feel free to swap out the vegetables or use leftover protein to create a unique version each time. With a base of chicken and noodles, the possibilities are endless!
Tips for Preparing Your Instant Pot Asian Chicken Noodle Bowl
To ensure your chicken noodle bowl turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Soak the rice noodles in hot water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the pot if you prefer a softer texture.
- Experiment with different vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bok choy to keep things interesting.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Make it a complete meal by serving with a side of steamed edamame or a light cucumber salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. Simply microwave or heat on the stove until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time to 10 minutes, and ensure you add an extra minute for each additional pound of chicken.
What kind of noodles can I use?
While this recipe calls for rice noodles, you can substitute with egg noodles, udon, or soba noodles based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure that the noodles are also gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the broth before cooking. You can also serve with sliced fresh chili on top for an added kick.
Final Thoughts
The Instant Pot Asian chicken noodle bowl recipe for busy families is not just a meal; it’s a solution to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. Packed with flavors and nutrients, it’s an easy way to bring the family together around the dinner table. Try it out tonight and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your household!
Don’t forget to save this recipe for later, and share your delicious creations on social media. Happy cooking!
