Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup brings warm comfort to your table, perfect for cozy nights in or as a hearty meal for guests. This rich, creamy concoction is loaded with tender chicken, plenty of cheese, and satisfying macaroni, all simmered together in a delicious broth. Imagine curling up on the couch with a warm bowl of this soup, the inviting aroma filling your home as you savor each spoonful. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that nourishes both body and soul.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 480
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 34 grams
- Fat: 28 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 920 mg
Why Make This Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
This soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the nostalgic flavors of macaroni and cheese with a creamy twist. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and hearty. The blend of shredded chicken, buttery cheese, and macaroni creates a delightful texture that warms your heart and soul. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use leftover chicken, helping you minimize waste while still creating something delicious.
How to Make Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
-
Step 2: Mixing
Stir in shredded chicken and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
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Step 3: Cooking
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Step 4: Finishing
Reduce heat, then stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot.
How to Serve Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Serve this soup in warm bowls, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for dipping, or a refreshing side salad. This dish is great for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even as a meal prep option for your busy week ahead.
How to Store Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that the texture may slightly change after freezing, so stirring well upon reheating is recommended.
Expert Tips for Perfect Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- To amp up the nutritional value, feel free to add in some vegetables like peas or spinach during the mixing step.
- If you’re a fan of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can give this soup a delicious kick.
- Make sure to use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives or simply add more vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.
- Cheesy Bacon Mac: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor that complements the creamy soup.
- Spicy Southwest Mac: Mix in diced jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free macaroni works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed. -
How can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese to keep the creamy texture while accommodating dietary needs. -
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just ensure your pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients. -
Can I prep this soup in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the soup on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor and texture. -
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube can be used as a substitute if you need a lighter flavor.
Conclusion
This Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. With its creamy texture, comforting flavors, and delightful blend of ingredients, this soup will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Grab your ingredients and give it a try today—you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re in need of some comfort food, this recipe will warm you from the inside out. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-free
Description
Warm and comforting creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup, loaded with tender chicken, cheese, and macaroni, perfect for cozy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in shredded chicken and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reduce heat, then stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. Can be made dairy-free with substitutions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
