As I stirred the pot, the aroma of caramelized onions and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to childhood, where warmth and comfort reigned supreme during chilly nights. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt embrace in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines the nostalgic flavors of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of a classic chicken soup, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to swap in ground turkey or even add some vibrant vegetables! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply need to unwind with a comforting dish, this soup delivers on all fronts. Curious about how to whip up this delightful, creamy goodness? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup so delightful?
Comforting, this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup wraps you in warmth, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings. Versatile, make it your own by swapping proteins or tossing in seasonal veggies for added nutrition. Kid-friendly, it seamlessly blends nostalgia with flavor, making it a hit with picky eaters. Quick to prepare, you can whip it up in under an hour, saving you time on busy weeknights. Whether you pair it with crusty baguette or a light salad, this dish serves up love in every spoonful! For extra flavor, consider trying it with tips from my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a twist.
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• 3 cups cooked chicken – Adds protein and substance; ground turkey or Italian sausage make great substitutions.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Provides richness and depth; essential for flavor.
• 1 large yellow onion – Enhances the flavor base; finely diced for even cooking.
• 2 medium carrots – Adds sweetness and color; peeled and finely diced.
• 2 celery stalks – Contributes aromatic qualities; finely diced.
• 3 cloves garlic – Adds pungent flavor; must be minced for best results.
For the Seasonings
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Adds earthy notes; Italian seasoning makes a great alternative.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Offers smokiness; omit for a milder flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder – Enhances overall flavor; substitute with a dash of Dijon mustard if needed.
For Thickening and Creaminess
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the soup; cornstarch or gluten-free flour can work instead.
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Serves as the soup’s base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• 2 cups whole milk – Contributes creaminess; half-and-half or dairy alternatives are valid substitutions.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness; optional to reduce for a lighter version.
For the Pasta and Cheese
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni – Provides heartiness; any small pasta shape can be substituted.
• 4 cups (1 lb) sharp cheddar cheese – Main cheese for flavor and creaminess; a blend with Monterey Jack can be delightful.
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese – Adds extra meltiness; optional but recommended for a creamy finish.
Optional Toppings
• Chopped fresh parsley – Freshens up the dish; brightens both flavor and presentation.
• Snipped fresh chives – Offers a mild oniony taste; great for a pop of color.
• Extra shredded cheddar – For those extra cheesy bites; sprinkle to your heart’s content!
• Crumpled crispy bacon – For a delicious crunchy texture; skip for a vegetarian option.
• Croutons – Adds texture and crunch; perfect for that satisfying bite.
This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a hearty, nostalgic meal that’s perfect for all ages!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables & Cheese
Start by finely dicing the onion, carrots, and celery, and mincing the garlic. Grate the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, ensuring they are ready to melt smoothly later. This preparation lays the flavorful foundation for your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, so take a few minutes to have everything organized before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices
In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 8-10 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard; cook for an additional 2 minutes to release their delightful aromas.
Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base
Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour into the pot, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken; bring it to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
Lower the heat to avoid boiling, then gradually stir in 4 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese and ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy and velvety. Make sure to keep the heat low during this step, as boiling can cause the cheese to become grainy in your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.
Step 5: Cook Macaroni
While the cheese is melting, cook 1 ½ cups of elbow macaroni in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside. This step ensures that the pasta maintains its shape and texture when combined with the creamy soup base.
Step 6: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked chicken and drained macaroni to the pot with the creamy soup. Gently stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Once heated through, serve the Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup hot, garnished with your choice of chopped fresh parsley, snipped chives, or extra cheese for a delightful finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, grate the cheeses, and even cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, melt the butter and sauté the aromatics, then slowly whisk in the broth and cream, adding the prepped chicken and cheese just before serving. Avoid adding macaroni until you’re ready to prevent it from becoming soggy; cook it fresh in salted boiling water and combine it right before enjoying. This way, you’ll savor a delightful, creamy soup that’s just as comforting as if you made it all in one go!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
- Whisk Gradually: Whisk the broth and cream slowly into the roux to prevent any lumps in your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or milk. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmer it a little longer to thicken.
- Low Heat for Cheese: Always keep the heat low when adding the cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without any graininess.
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the macaroni until al dente before adding it to the soup. This ensures it holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy.
- Season to Taste: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Each cheese and broth can differ in saltiness!
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain creaminess.
Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If the soup appears thickened, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the soup ahead of time but save adding the macaroni until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and ensures every bowl is perfectly creamy.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Looking to create a comforting and complete meal that complements this velvety soup?
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping, soaking up the creamy soup without overwhelming flavors.
- Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused delight pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cozy atmosphere with every bite.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Tender, caramelized veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add a sweet and savory touch, balancing the meal beautifully.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, crumbly cornbread muffins provide a delightful texture and sweetness that perfectly complements the savory soup.
- Steamed Broccoli: Nutty and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a fresh element that pairs beautifully with the creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the richness of the soup while its acidity cuts through the creaminess, creating a balanced sip.
- Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp – the comforting flavors and crunchy topping make it a delightful dessert choice.
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Variations
Feel free to make this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup your own with these fun and delicious twists!
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Protein Swaps: Substitute cooked chicken with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Each brings a unique touch to the comforting base.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in frozen peas or sweet corn for a burst of color and sweetness. It not only looks inviting but adds nutrition, making this dish even more wholesome.
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with white beans and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option. It’s just as satisfying while keeping the flavors rich!
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Cheese Blends: Experiment with cheese by using smoked gouda or pepper jack instead of cheddar. Each offers a delightful twist, enhancing the depth of flavor, especially for cheese lovers.
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Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic uplift. Their brightness can elevate this dish further, bringing freshness to every comforting spoonful.
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Heat Adventure: If you like a kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. Just a little heat can really transform the entire experience into something exciting!
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Pasta Variety: Switch up the pasta shape! Use small shells or cavatappi instead of elbow macaroni for a fun texture twist that’s perfect for soaking in the creamy goodness.
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Garnish Galore: Top your soup with crispy bacon crumbles, crunchy croutons, or a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes provide delightful contrast and elevate the overall presentation.
With so many variations to explore, your family will love this dish even more each time you make it! And, for those extra special nights, consider pairing it with my Chicken Tortilla Soup or the indulgent flavors of Honey Pepper Chicken for a cozy meal that delights everyone!
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this soup?
I recommend using cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, for convenience and flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different twist, which adds unique flavors and textures to the creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to ensure the soup regains its creamy texture.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze this creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup for up to 2 months. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating it on the stovetop, and add a splash of milk or broth as needed if it thickens.
Why did my cheese become grainy in the soup?
To avoid grainy cheese, always keep the heat low when adding cheese to the soup. Gradually stir in the cheese and avoid boiling the soup after incorporating it. If you notice it starting to grain, try removing it from the heat immediately and whisking it vigorously to smooth it out.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! This creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup can be adapted for various dietary needs. Substitute the chicken with white beans for a vegetarian option, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also adjust the dairy to use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives for lactose sensitivity or vegan diets.
How do I ensure perfect pasta texture in the soup?
To achieve perfect pasta texture in this recipe, cook the elbow macaroni separately until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy when added to the creamy chicken macaroni cheese soup. Make sure to drain it well before combining!
Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic. Grate the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour into the pot, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the broth, milk, and cream, simmering until thickened.
- Lower the heat, stir in the cheeses until fully melted and creamy.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot until al dente, then drain.
- Add the cooked chicken and macaroni to the soup, simmer for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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