Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of comforting flavors that will warm your heart and fill your belly. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or when you’re simply craving something delicious. Its rich creaminess and cheesy goodness offer a unique twist on traditional soups, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This soup combines two beloved classics, offering the best of both worlds.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be made in about an hour.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for Picky Eaters: The creamy texture makes it appealing for all ages, while you can sneak in healthy veggies.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything smooth and efficient. Having the right equipment can simplify your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup base and allowing all ingredients to blend well together.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring even sizes for better cooking.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps, especially when incorporating flour into liquids.
Ingredients
For this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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
- 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 Bacon, croutons
How to Make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables & Cheese
Begin by preparing your ingredients:
* Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery.
* Mince the garlic.
* Grate the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear approximately 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in olive oil before shredding or dicing.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices
In a large pot over medium heat:
* Melt the unsalted butter.
* Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8–10 minutes until softened.
* Add minced garlic along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder; cook for an additional two minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base
Now it’s time to thicken your soup:
* Stir in all-purpose flour; cook for about 2–3 minutes to create a roux.
* Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Then add whole milk and heavy cream.
* Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper according to taste.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Lower the heat:
* Gradually add grated cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese into the soup.
* Stir continuously until completely melted; avoid boiling after adding cheese to keep it smooth.
Step 5: Cook Macaroni
In a separate pot:
* Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente according to package instructions.
* Drain thoroughly once cooked.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Finally:
* Add the cooked chicken (or pre-cooked chicken) along with drained macaroni into the soup pot.
* Stir gently; let simmer on low for about 5–10 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
* Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like fresh herbs or extra cheese before serving.
Enjoy this comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup with friends or family!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that complements the soup’s richness.
Topped with Garnishes
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adding fresh parsley brings a vibrant color and a hint of herbal flavor.
- Crispy Turkey Bacon Crumbles: For a smoky touch, sprinkle crumbled crispy turkey bacon on top.
Paired with Salads
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pairs well with the soup.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
Accompanied by Beverages
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the creaminess of the soup.
- Herbal Iced Tea: Enjoying a chilled herbal tea provides a soothing contrast to the warm soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Feel free to blend in seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Control Seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
- Avoid Boiling After Cheese Addition: Keep the heat low after adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Pairing side dishes with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast until tender.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices provide a hearty complement to the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delicious sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve this creamy dip with tortilla chips as an appetizer before enjoying your soup.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Simple baked sweet potatoes drizzled with olive oil make for a nutritious side dish.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese and garlic offer extra comfort alongside your bowl of soup.
- Simple Cucumber Salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar provides cool relief against the warm soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can be a delight, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for a perfect outcome.
- Using Pre-Cooked Chicken Incorrectly: Ensure that if you’re using pre-cooked chicken, it’s fully shredded or diced before adding it to the soup. This ensures even distribution of flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Roux Step: Don’t skip making the roux with flour and butter. This thickens your soup and gives it that creamy consistency. Cook it for a few minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually add cheese to the soup over low heat. If added too quickly or at high temperatures, it may clump together instead of melting smoothly.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure your elbow macaroni is cooked al dente separately before adding it to the soup. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the broth.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup as you go! You may need to adjust salt, pepper, or spices after adding all ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup is best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for unique flavors.
How can I make this soup healthier?
You can add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini and use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, salad, or even on its own as a hearty meal.
How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
If your soup is too thin, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering soup until it thickens.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile! Customize it with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses to suit your preferences. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today!
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese and tender chicken with the delightful chew of macaroni. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, this soup is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. With its rich texture and cheesy goodness, it’s a memorable meal that appeals to all ages. You can customize it with seasonal vegetables or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own. Enjoy it as a satisfying main course or pair it with crusty bread for an inviting dining experience.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- Optional: chopped parsley, crispy turkey bacon for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables by dicing the onion, carrots, and celery; mince the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the vegetables until softened. Add garlic and spices; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower heat and stir in grated cheeses until melted smoothly.
- Cook elbow macaroni separately until al dente; drain.
- Combine cooked chicken and macaroni into the soup pot. Simmer briefly to meld flavors before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with low-fat alternatives. Adjust seasonings gradually while cooking to suit your taste preferences.