Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup! It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing together the heartiness of macaroni, the savory goodness of chicken, and the creamy delight of cheese. Whenever I make this soup, it takes me back to cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the table, slurping up bowls of this deliciousness. The best part? It’s super versatile! You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’ll want to make it again and again! It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup. I love how simple and straightforward the ingredients are, making it easy to whip up a batch in no time!
- 2 cups cooked macaroni – Make sure it’s al dente for that perfect bite!
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken – Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here!
- 4 cups chicken broth – The base of your soup; go for low-sodium if you prefer!
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk gives it a rich creaminess, but feel free to use your favorite!
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star of the show! Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick.
- 1/2 cup diced onion – This adds a lovely sweetness when sautéed.
- 1/2 cup diced celery – For that crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A little goes a long way in enhancing the taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust these as you go; I always like to taste as I season!
That’s it! With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a bowl of pure comfort.
How to Prepare Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Making Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step so you can enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness in no time! Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
First up, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and diced celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re soft and fragrant. You want those veggies to get nice and tender, which adds a lovely depth to your soup. Oh, the aroma will have you dreaming of cozy dinners!
Step 2: Add Chicken Broth
Once your veggies are soft, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil—this step is crucial as it really helps to develop those flavors. Give it a good stir and wait for that bubbling magic. It should take about 5-7 minutes to reach a rolling boil.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now that your broth is bubbling away, it’s time to stir in the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken. This is where the soup starts to really come together! Mix it all well, ensuring that the macaroni and chicken are evenly distributed. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes just to warm everything through.
Step 4: Incorporate Dairy
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently as the cheese starts to melt into that creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens! Keep stirring until everything is well combined and you’ve got a luscious, creamy consistency. It should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Now, let’s talk seasoning! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add salt and pepper to taste. I always love to taste as I go to find that perfect balance of flavors. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and don’t be shy—this is what makes your soup sing!
Step 6: Final Cooking
Finally, you’ll want to cook the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the cheese is fully melted. If you like your soup a bit thicker, feel free to add a touch more cheese! Just keep an eye on the texture; it should be creamy and inviting. Once it’s ready, serve it up hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Tips for Success
To make your Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup truly shine, I’ve got some handy tips that will take it from good to absolutely outstanding! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference.
- Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade chicken broth if you can—it adds a depth of flavor that store-bought just can’t match. If you’re in a pinch, low-sodium broth is a great alternative, giving you more control over the saltiness.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is a classic, you can mix in some mozzarella or even pepper jack for a fun twist! Just make sure whatever cheese you choose melts well for that creamy texture.
- Leftover Chicken: This soup is perfect for using up leftover chicken, but if you don’t have any, rotisserie chicken works like a charm! Just shred it and toss it in—easy peasy!
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies like spinach or peas. They add color, nutrition, and a nice pop of flavor. Just throw them in during the last few minutes of cooking!
- Presentation: Serve your soup in a colorful bowl and top it with a sprinkle of extra cheese or some crispy croutons for a delightful crunch. A dash of freshly chopped parsley can make it look extra appealing!
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this soup in advance! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens up too much.
By following these tips, you’ll create a Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup that’s not just delicious but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting in your body! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for a hearty bowl of Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
This Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not only delicious but also packs a nice protein punch, thanks to the chicken and cheese. It’s a comforting meal that you can enjoy without too much guilt! Just remember to adjust your portion if you’re watching calories or sodium. Happy slurping!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my answers to help you navigate this cozy recipe.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding. You can boil or bake it, then add it to the soup. It’s a great way to save time!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove to keep that creamy texture!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You bet! Simply swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get that comforting vibe without the meat!
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much. This will help keep it creamy and delicious!
Can I freeze Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool the soup completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It should last about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned before. Easy peasy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you just need a little pick-me-up!
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with whatever veggies or leftover proteins you have on hand—no need to run to the store!
- Creamy and Delicious: The combination of melted cheddar and creamy milk creates a rich and satisfying texture that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this soup! It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some nutrition while still being a fun meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for quick lunches and dinners later on.
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
And if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of chicken, visit Healthline for detailed information.
Print
Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup: 5 Steps to Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A creamy and comforting soup with macaroni, chicken, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion and celery until soft.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in cooked macaroni and shredded chicken.
- Reduce heat and add milk and cheese.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until cheese melts and soup is heated through.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker meal.
- For a thicker soup, add more cheese.
- Top with extra cheese or croutons if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe