Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup, a delightful twist on a classic dish. This cozy bowl combines tender chicken, macaroni, and a rich cheese base that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Shredded rotisserie chicken (optional)
- Elbow macaroni
- Shells or cavatappi (optional)
- Gluten-free pasta (optional)
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Creamy mozzarella cheese
- Gouda or pepper jack cheese (optional)
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Vegetable broth (optional)
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Half-and-half or non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) (optional)
- Coconut cream (optional)
- Celery
- Carrots
- Onions
- Peas (optional)
- Corn (optional)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by dicing your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the macaroni and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook according to the pasta package instructions until al dente.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in the milk and heavy cream, allowing the soup to return to a gentle simmer. Mix in the cheese, stirring until melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and paprika. If you’re adding fresh herbs, do so now.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy your cozy bowl of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice. For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. To thicken the soup, blend a portion of it and return it to the pot. Leftover soup can be turned into a casserole by topping with breadcrumbs and cheese before baking.