Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of creamy macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of chicken soup. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you’re in need of some culinary comfort.
• Family-Friendly: It’s easily adaptable for picky eaters. Blend in vegetables or use milder cheeses to suit everyone’s palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with seasonal veggies like roasted butternut squash or fresh asparagus tips.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 30 minutes of prep, you’ll have this delicious soup ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Perfectly Creamy: The combination of whole milk and heavy cream gives this soup its signature creaminess without being overly heavy.

Tools and Preparation

Creating your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup requires just a few essential tools that make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Grater
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup base evenly without spilling, allowing for a smooth blend of flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking and melting of cheese.
• Grater: Necessary for shredding cheese quickly, which helps it melt better into the 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 Seasoning & Thickening

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

For the Liquids

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

For Flavoring

• 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
• Crumble 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 before shredding or dicing; alternatively, use 3 cups of pre-cooked chicken.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8–10 minutes until tender. 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 and cook for about 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually add in the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses while stirring continuously until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to maintain its creamy texture.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

Cook 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni separately in salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly before adding to the soup.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked chicken (or use pre-cooked) along with drained macaroni into the soup mixture. Stir gently and simmer on low for about 5–10 minutes to meld flavors together. Adjust seasoning as needed before ladling into bowls. Garnish as desired!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can elevate your dining experience, transforming a simple dish into a memorable meal. Here are some tasty suggestions to complement your soup.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch.

Topped with Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
• Extra Cheese: Add extra shredded cheddar on top for an indulgent finish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing pairs perfectly.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

With a Beverage

• Lemonade: The refreshing taste cuts through the creaminess.
• Apple Cider: Warm apple cider adds seasonal charm and warmth.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is top-notch.

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile; taste as you go!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and cheeses make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Control Heat When Melting Cheese: Keep the heat low when adding cheese to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without clumping.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the macaroni from becoming mushy when combined with the soup.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

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 delightful options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a crisp contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add depth and flavor.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory soup perfectly.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add satisfying crunch.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer a hearty option.
6. Pita Chips & Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with hummus provide a light appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people may encounter challenges when making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold broth or milk can cause the soup to curdle. Always bring your liquids to room temperature before adding them.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni too long, it can become mushy in the soup. Cook it al dente, as it will continue cooking when added to the hot soup.
• Skipping the roux: Failing to create a roux can lead to a thin soup. Make sure to cook the flour with butter for a few minutes before adding liquids to thicken properly.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Throwing in all the cheese at once can create clumps. Gradually add it while stirring on low heat for a smooth texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Taste your soup as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), pour soup into an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until heated through, usually about 3-5 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of cheese in Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Yes! Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for unique flavors.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.

How do I store leftover Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of comfort food that warms both body and soul. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it versatile for any season. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; your family will surely love it!