Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the comforting essence of chicken soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it offers a unique twist on two beloved classics. Enjoy this versatile soup in any season by adding seasonal vegetables or serving it alongside your favorite beverages.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty: This soup provides the ultimate comfort food experience, making it perfect for cozy nights in.
- Family-friendly: Its creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to picky eaters of all ages.
- Versatile: Easily adapt this soup by adding seasonal veggies or varying the cheese types to suit your taste.
- Quick preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in just over an hour.
- Great for leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy it for days.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot ensures that all ingredients can be combined without overcrowding, allowing for even cooking.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
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
For the Creamy Mixture
- 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 and 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
- Crumbled crispy beef turkey bacon
- Croutons
How to Make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables & Cheese
Begin by finely dicing the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Grate both the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked through; then shred or dice. 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. Add in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 8-10 minutes until they soften. Then add the minced garlic along with ½ tsp thyme, ½ tsp smoked paprika, and ¼ tsp dry mustard powder; cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base
Stir in ¼ cup flour and cook for about 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. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Lower the heat to low before gradually adding the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir continuously until all cheese has melted into a smooth mixture. Be careful not to let it boil after adding cheese.
Step 5: Cook Macaroni
In a separate pot, cook 1 ½ cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked chicken (or use your pre-cooked option) along with the drained macaroni into the soup. Stir gently while simmering on low heat for about 5-10 minutes so that flavors meld together nicely. Adjust seasoning if necessary before ladling into bowls and garnishing as desired.
Now you have a delicious serving of Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or entertaining guests, here are some ideas to elevate your meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A slice of freshly baked baguette or sourdough bread makes for a perfect side. It’s great for dipping into the creamy soup.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or snipped chives on top of each bowl. This adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
Include a Side Salad
- A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Serve with Savory Crackers
- Offer an assortment of whole-grain crackers on the side. Their crunchiness contrasts nicely with the creamy texture of the soup.
Top with Crispy Turkey Bacon
- For added flavor and texture, crumble crispy beef turkey bacon on top. It provides a smoky taste that enhances the overall experience.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup involves attention to detail and some helpful tricks. Here are some tips to enhance your soup-making skills.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and quality chicken for optimal flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors in your soup.
- Simmer Gently: After adding cheese, keep the heat low to ensure it melts smoothly without curdling.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper gradually to achieve your desired flavor profile.
- Monitor Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add extra broth or milk until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Refrigerate Overnight: For even better flavor, let the soup sit overnight in the fridge before reheating; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Serving side dishes alongside your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can make your meal more satisfying and balanced. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter; perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds fiber and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender enhances both flavor and nutrition.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned potato wedges offer a hearty side that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich soup, making it a sweet complement.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and acidity, providing balance against the creaminess of the macaroni cheese soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that works well with savory soups while also adding texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Neglecting the Roux: Skipping the roux can lead to a thin soup. Always cook flour with butter to create a base that thickens your soup.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping cheese in all at once may cause it to clump. Add cheese gradually, stirring continuously over low heat for a smooth texture.
- Overcooking Macaroni: Cooking macaroni too long before adding it to the soup can result in mushiness. Aim for al dente and drain thoroughly.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving might leave it bland. Always adjust salt and pepper at the end for optimal flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cheese or broth can compromise flavor. Opt for high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date.
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 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm soup in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.
How do I make my Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup thicker?
To thicken your soup, ensure you properly cook the roux and add enough cheese gradually. If needed, a cornstarch slurry can also help achieve desired thickness.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère to customize flavors while maintaining creaminess.
What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or even a fruit salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Is Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup freezable?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just follow proper storage instructions and reheat when ready to enjoy again.
Can I customize the vegetables in Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
Yes! You can add seasonal vegetables like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Just make sure they are cooked until tender before serving.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily adapt it with seasonal veggies or different types of cheese to suit your family’s tastes. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods—macaroni and cheese and chicken soup. This hearty dish features tender pieces of chicken, creamy cheese, and al dente macaroni, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings, this versatile soup can be customized with seasonal vegetables or enjoyed as is. With its creamy texture and savory taste, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for about 8-10 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted.
- Cook elbow macaroni separately until al dente; drain.
- Combine cooked chicken and macaroni into the soup; simmer for another 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition. Experiment with different cheese varieties such as gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
