Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of creamy comfort and hearty nutrition. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup brings together the rich flavors of macaroni and cheese with the warmth of chicken soup, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Not only does it satisfy hunger, but its creamy texture and cheesy goodness will also warm your heart. Whether it’s a chilly day or a special occasion, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This soup combines two favorites into one satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in under 90 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Add seasonal vegetables or different cheeses to customize the flavor and nutrition based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, everyone will love digging into this creamy bowl of goodness.
• Adaptable for Picky Eaters: Blend in veggies for added nutrition without compromising taste, ensuring even picky eaters enjoy every spoonful.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Using the right equipment helps streamline the cooking process and enhances your culinary experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup while allowing enough space for stirring without splashing.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth consistency when combining liquids, especially when making the roux.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in achieving the perfect flavor balance in your soup.

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

For the Flavoring

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder

For Thickening and Creaminess

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta & Cheese

• 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
• Crumpled crispy beef 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 sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until fully cooked, then shred or dice them; alternatively, use 3 cups 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 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; cook for about 2–3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth first, followed by 2 cups whole milk and then add in 1 cup heavy cream until completely smooth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into the pot while stirring continuously until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling once the cheese is added.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente as per package instructions. Drain thoroughly once cooked.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked chicken (or use pre-cooked) along with drained macaroni to your soup base. Stir gently allowing everything to meld together on low heat for about 5–10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed before ladling into bowls. Garnish as desired with optional toppings before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, serving this soup can elevate the experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Snipped Fresh Chives: Add snipped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Crunchy Toppings

• Extra Shredded Cheddar: Top each bowl with additional grated cheddar cheese that will melt slightly into the warm soup.
• Crumbling Crispy Turkey Bacon: For an added crunch, sprinkle crumbled crispy turkey bacon on top.

Served with Bread

• Crusty Breadsticks: Pair with warm breadsticks for dipping; they soak up the flavors wonderfully.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic combo that adds extra cheesiness and a comforting touch to your meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can elevate its deliciousness even further. Here are some handy tips to ensure you make it just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and cheeses for the best flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper after each addition to find your ideal balance.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking macaroni separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup, ensuring a delightful bite.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like gouda or fontina for unique flavors.
• Thicken as Desired: If you prefer a thicker soup, add little more flour when cooking the roux or use less broth.
• Add Vegetables Wisely: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus or corn at the end of cooking for freshness without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
2. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy touch and complement the flavors nicely.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are hearty and filling, making them a great match for your comfort food soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese provide an extra indulgent bite alongside the soup.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
7. Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, which pairs well with creamy dishes like this one.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds an enjoyable texture and sweetness that enhances every spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a delicious Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can be easy, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Bold misunderstanding of cheese types: Using pre-shredded cheese may lead to a grainy texture. Opt for freshly grated cheese for a creamy melt.
• Bold neglecting the broth quality: Using low-quality or high-sodium broth can overpower the flavors. Always choose low-sodium chicken broth for better control over seasoning.
• Bold overcooking the macaroni: Cooking macaroni too long before adding it to the soup can make it mushy. Cook it al dente since it will soften further in the soup.
• Bold skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the soup to simmer after adding ingredients can prevent flavors from melding. Make sure to simmer for at least 5-10 minutes.
• Bold ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in a bland soup. Always taste and tweak salt and pepper before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, macaroni pasta, and creamy cheese sauce into a delightful bowl of warmth.

Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Absolutely! You can add seasonal vegetables or switch up the cheese varieties based on your preferences.

How long does Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup last in the refrigerator?

The soup will last in an airtight container for about 3-4 days when stored properly.

What are some good side dishes with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for an extra cheesy experience.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with plant-based protein like chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for chilly nights or any time you crave comfort food. Feel free to customize it with seasonal veggies or your favorite cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors!