Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of creamy textures and comforting flavors that make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening, at a family gathering, or for a cozy dinner with friends, this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup will surely impress everyone. With its rich combination of chicken soup and macaroni cheese, it’s like a warm hug in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: The creamy texture combined with cheesy goodness creates a dish that’s both satisfying and heartwarming.
• Versatile Ingredients: Adapt this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can have this delicious soup ready in just over an hour.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for picky eaters.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering your soup ingredients evenly without spillage.
• Whisk: Essential for ensuring that your roux stays smooth as you incorporate the liquids into the mixture.
• Grater: Helps you quickly prepare fresh cheese for melting into your creamy 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
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

For the Cheese

• 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 sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil, then shred or dice them; otherwise, use 3 cups of pre-cooked chicken.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8-10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base

Stir in ¼ cup of flour; cook for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer while seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses into the soup while stirring until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to keep it creamy.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook 1 ½ cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain thoroughly once cooked.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

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

Enjoy your comforting 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’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, there are many ways to serve this delightful soup.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley adds a splash of color and freshness.
• Snipped Fresh Chives: Chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanying Bread

• Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping and savoring every bite.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Enjoy these buttery, garlic-infused sticks for an extra indulgence alongside your soup.

Toppings and Garnishes

• Extra Shredded Cheddar: A handful of extra cheese on top makes for a rich finish.
• Crispy Turkey Bacon Crumbles: These add a delightful crunch and savory note to each bowl.

Beverage Pairings

• Fizzy Lemonade: The sweetness and carbonation make for a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Steaming Apple Cider: Warm cider adds a touch of spice that pairs well on chilly days.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, consider these helpful tips that elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheeses enhance the overall taste.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Slowly incorporating the cheese prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking throughout the cooking process.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the macaroni holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when added to the soup.
• Simmer Gently After Adding Cheese: Avoid boiling once cheese is added; this keeps it creamy instead of gritty.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like roasted butternut squash or fresh corn for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can make your meal more complete. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
2. Steamed Broccoli: This simple side adds nutrients and color, balancing out the creamy flavors.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a tasty bite alongside your soup.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits infused with garlic butter complement the cheesy soup perfectly.
5. Vegetable Crudités Platter: Fresh veggies served with hummus or dip make for a crunchy and healthy snack option.
6. Buttered Corn on the Cob: A classic side that brings sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
7. Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with creamy soups.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Peppers filled with grains, beans, or quinoa create an appealing presentation while adding nutritional value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to mushiness. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Insufficient seasoning can dull the flavors. Taste the soup as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Adding cheese at high heat can cause it to clump. Reduce heat before incorporating cheese for a smoother texture.
• Ignoring Vegetable Prep: Not finely dicing vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your onions, carrots, and celery are diced small for even texture.
• Skipping the Roux: Neglecting to create a roux can result in a thin soup. Always cook flour with butter first to thicken your soup effectively.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old or stale ingredients affects taste. Always opt for fresh chicken and vegetables for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish; cover and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

Can I make this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its rich flavor, but feel free to mix with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for added depth.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

You can add seasonal vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, or spice it up with hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time on preparation.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful combination of comfort food that warms both body and soul. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a family favorite, while its versatility allows you to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!