Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful fusion that brings together the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of chicken soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup is a crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and fill your belly. With its rich texture and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that can easily become a staple in your home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to seasonal ingredients, making it suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese and tender chicken creates a soothing dish that’s perfect for any time of year.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Customizable Ingredients: Add seasonal vegetables or switch up the cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this delicious blend of flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To create your creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help streamline the cooking process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté vegetables and cook the soup evenly without overcrowding.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which enhances the overall presentation and texture of your soup.
• Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, ensuring a smoother and creamier texture in your soup.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Thickeners

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

Liquids

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream

Pasta and Cheese

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 4 cups (1 lb) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated

Optional Garnishes

• chopped fresh parsley
• snipped fresh chives
• extra shredded cheddar
• crumbled crispy beef Turkey Turkey Bacon
• croutons

How to Make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables & Cheese

Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Grate both the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If you’re starting with raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked through, then shred or dice them; alternatively, use 3 cups of pre-cooked chicken.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8–10 minutes until they soften. Add in the minced garlic along with ½ tsp thyme, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp dry mustard powder; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base

Stir in ¼ cup flour into the vegetable mix; cook for about 2–3 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream until smooth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add in both grated cheeses (cheddar and Monterey Jack), stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to let it boil after adding the cheese.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly before adding it to the soup.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add in the cooked chicken (or use pre-cooked chicken) along with the drained macaroni into the soup base. Stir gently and allow everything to simmer on low for about 5–10 minutes so that flavors meld together nicely. Adjust seasoning as needed before ladling into bowls. Garnish as desired with fresh herbs or extra toppings!

Enjoy your hearty bowl of creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, serving this soup can enhance the overall experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of color and freshness.
• Snipped Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Extra Shredded Cheddar: For those who can’t get enough cheese!
• Croutons: Adds a satisfying crunch and texture contrast.
• Crispy Turkey Bacon: Provides a savory, crispy element without pork.

Accompanied by Beverages

• Fizzy Lemonade: A refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
• Steaming Apple Cider: Perfect for chilly evenings, enhancing the cozy vibe.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

To make your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh and high-quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like butternut squash or asparagus can elevate the dish’s nutrition and taste.
• Don’t Rush the Cheese Melting Process: Gradually melting cheese on low heat helps achieve that creamy texture without clumping.
• Consider Texture Variations: Blend some of the soup for a creamier base while leaving chunks for added texture.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; just reheat gently.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup with its buttery, garlicky flavor.
2. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and complement the flavors beautifully.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, they provide a hearty addition to your meal.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair well, adding texture and sweetness alongside the soup.
6. Savory Scones: Cheddar or herb scones can be delightful when served warm with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls in your cooking can elevate your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup experience. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold chicken broth or milk can prevent the soup from reaching the right consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure even cooking.
• Overcooking the Macaroni: Cooking the macaroni too long before adding it to the soup can lead to a mushy texture. Cook just until al dente for the best results.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can make your soup bland. Always taste before serving and add salt and pepper as needed.
• Boiling After Adding Cheese: Boiling the soup after adding cheese can cause it to become grainy. Reduce heat and gently stir until melted without boiling.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. Fresh herbs or crispy toppings add flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

How do I make my Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour when creating the roux or use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent during cooking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavors. Just ensure they melt well.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

What vegetables can I add to this soup?

You can enhance nutrition by adding vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cooked through before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful combination of comfort food flavors that will warm your heart. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it versatile enough for any season. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or different cheese varieties for a unique twist every time you prepare it!