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Creamy, cheesy, and spicy—this Buffalo Chicken Mac Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food mashup. #buffalochicken #macandcheese #comfortfood
Buffalo Chicken Mac Noodle Soup
Buffalo Chicken Mac Noodle Soup combines the cheesy comfort of mac and cheese with spicy buffalo chicken flavors in one bold, cozy bowl. Juicy shredded chicken, tender elbow pasta, creamy cheddar broth, and a splash of hot sauce come together for a fun twist on classic chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for game day or weeknight comfort food.
It’s creamy, cheesy, a little spicy—and guaranteed to be a family favorite!
1. Yield, Time & Tools
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Tools Needed: Large pot, whisk, knife, measuring cups and spoons
2. Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups milk
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup buffalo sauce
- ½ cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Optional toppings: crumbled blue cheese, sliced green onions, extra buffalo sauce
3. Preparation Steps
A. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt and pepper. In large pot over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add chicken and onion; cook 5–6 minutes until chicken is cooked through and onion is soft. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
B. Build the Soup Base
Pour in chicken broth and milk; bring to a simmer. Stir in pasta; cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
C. Finish the Soup
Reduce heat to low; stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add buffalo sauce and ranch dressing; stir until combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
D. Serve
Ladle into bowls; top with blue cheese crumbles, green onions, or extra buffalo sauce if desired. Enjoy hot!
4. Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Add cooked bacon for smoky flavor.
- Make it spicier with extra buffalo sauce or cayenne.
- Swap elbow macaroni for shells or rotini.
5. Troubleshooting FAQ
Why is my soup too thick?
Add more broth or milk to thin it to desired consistency.
Why is my cheese clumping?
Reduce heat before adding cheese; stir constantly until melted.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Use veggie broth and omit chicken; add sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower instead.
Can I freeze it?
Not recommended; cheese sauce can separate when thawed.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Serve with celery sticks or carrot sticks for crunch.
- Pair with warm garlic bread.
- Add a side salad with ranch dressing for balance.
7. Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm on stove or microwave; add splash of milk if needed.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Cook chicken ahead; assemble soup quickly when ready.
- Freezer Instructions: Not recommended; texture may separate when thawed.
