Chicken Macaroni Soup
A Hearty, Comforting Classic
Chicken macaroni soup is the kind of dish that instantly brings comfort. Warm, nourishing, and satisfying, it combines tender chicken, soft macaroni pasta, and a flavorful broth filled with vegetables and herbs. This soup is perfect for chilly days, family meals, or whenever you need something cozy and filling.
Simple to prepare and loved by all ages, chicken macaroni soup is a timeless favorite in many households.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
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Comforting and filling
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Made with simple pantry ingredients
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Perfect for lunch or dinner
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Family-friendly and kid-approved
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Easy to customize
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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500 g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
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1½ liters (6 cups) chicken broth
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1 cup macaroni pasta
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1 bay leaf
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½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional additions: corn, peas, spinach, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables and Chicken
Stir in carrots and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes to release their flavor.
Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly sealed on all sides.
3. Simmer
Pour in chicken broth. Add bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and tender.
4. Add the Macaroni
Stir in macaroni pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Chicken Macaroni Soup
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Use chicken thighs for extra flavor
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Add pasta near the end to avoid mushy texture
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Use homemade broth for richer taste
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Season gradually and taste as you go
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For thicker soup, add extra pasta or reduce broth slightly
Variations
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Soup
Add ½ cup cream or evaporated milk at the end.
Lemon Chicken Macaroni Soup
Finish with fresh lemon juice and zest for brightness.
Vegetable-Packed Version
Add peas, green beans, or spinach in the last 5 minutes.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or black pepper for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken macaroni soup is delicious served with:
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Crusty bread or garlic toast
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Crackers or breadsticks
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A simple green salad
It also works beautifully as a meal-prep soup for the week.
Storage & Reheating
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
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Pasta absorbs broth, so add extra stock when reheating
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Freeze without pasta for best texture
Why This Soup Is So Comforting
The combination of warm broth, tender chicken, and soft pasta creates a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables. It’s easy to digest, nourishing, and satisfying—everything comfort food should be.
Final Thoughts
Chicken macaroni soup is a true classic that never goes out of style. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether for a family dinner or a comforting lunch, this soup delivers warmth in every spoonful.