Description
This comforting Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup blends tender shredded chicken, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this hearty soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for any day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil or butter and sauté the diced onion and celery over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base of the soup.
- Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil on high heat. Boiling ensures the flavors meld and prepares the soup for the addition of the remaining ingredients.
- Combine Macaroni and Chicken: Stir in the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the boiling broth, ensuring even distribution throughout the soup.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the milk, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts, creating a creamy and cheesy consistency.
- Season the Soup: Season the soup with garlic powder, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
- Heat Through: Continue cooking the soup on low heat until it is thoroughly heated and slightly thickened, approximately 5 minutes. Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent the milk from curdling.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results.
- To make the soup richer, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular macaroni.
- You can add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and color.
