Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of comforting flavors that brings warmth and joy to any table. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a must-try dish for anyone seeking comfort food that satisfies. With the ability to adapt to seasonal ingredients, this soup truly stands out in its versatility and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of chicken soup for a dish that warms the soul.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making this soup is a breeze, even on busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: Adapt the recipe by adding seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or fresh asparagus to create unique flavors throughout the year.
- Family-Friendly: This soup is perfect for picky eaters, as you can blend in veggies and use milder cheeses without compromising on taste.
- Perfect Pairings: Enjoy with fizzy lemonade or steaming mugs of apple cider for a delightful meal experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
- Whisk: Helps combine liquids smoothly into the roux, preventing lumps for a creamy texture.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’ll need the following:
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 Cheeses
- 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 onion, carrots, and celery. Mince garlic. Grate sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until browned, then shred or dice; or use 3 cups pre-cooked chicken.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices
In a large pot, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8–10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, 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 until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 2 cups of whole milk and then add 1 cup heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Gradually add grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses while stirring until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to maintain creaminess.
Step 5: Cook Macaroni
Separately, cook 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked chicken (or pre-cooked chicken) along with drained macaroni to the soup base. Stir gently and simmer on low for about 5–10 minutes to meld flavors together. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot, garnished with your choice of toppings!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is the perfect dish for cozy gatherings or a comforting family dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Snipped Fresh Chives: Add chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the cheese.
With Crunchy Toppings
- Extra Shredded Cheddar: A sprinkle of more cheese on top adds an extra creamy touch.
- Crumble Crispy Turkey Bacon: For those seeking a crispy texture, crumbled turkey bacon provides a satisfying crunch.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Bread Rolls: Serve with warm bread rolls for dipping, enhancing the comfort factor of the soup.
- Garlic Bread Sticks: Pair with garlic bread sticks for a flavorful side that pairs perfectly with this cheesy delight.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
To make your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality cheeses to elevate the flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly to ensure the perfect balance.
- Stir Gently When Adding Cheese: Avoid boiling after adding cheese; it can cause it to become grainy.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like Gruyère or mozzarella for unique flavors in your soup.
- Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Add seasonal veggies such as peas or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Pairing sides with your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can enhance the meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables provide a hearty and healthy accompaniment.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that balances the savory soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice create a filling addition to your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that complements the soup well.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings color and nutrients, making it a healthy choice alongside the creamy dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect bowl of soup.
- Skipping the Roux: Not creating a roux can lead to a soupy texture instead of the desired creamy consistency. Always cook the flour with butter before adding liquids.
- Not Grating Cheese Freshly: Using pre-shredded cheese can result in clumping due to anti-caking agents. Grate your cheese fresh for a smooth melt.
- Overcooking Macaroni: Cooking the macaroni too long can turn it mushy in the soup. Aim for al dente so it holds up well when added to the soup.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can cause it to seize and clump. Add cheese gradually over low heat for an even melt.
- Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always check flavors before serving and adjust as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer portions into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful blend of chicken soup and macaroni and cheese, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for varied flavors and textures.
How do I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add cooked peas, spinach, or roasted butternut squash for additional nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just a meal; it’s comfort food that warms you from the inside out. It’s versatile enough for any season, allowing you to customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. Give it a try; your family will surely love this creamy delight!