Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

How to make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

To make a delicious and comforting Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, you’ll need a few main ingredients and follow some easy steps. The recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total, or 4 chicken thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for chicken)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for chicken)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion (finely diced)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and finely diced)
• 2 stalks celery (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated, about 1 lb)
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese (freshly grated)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Preparing the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it turns a lovely golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove it from the pot and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes.

2. Chop the Veggies: While the chicken rests, take this time to grate your cheeses if you haven’t done so already. After resting, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of butter to the same pot. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these ingredients for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.

4. Create the Roux: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of dry mustard powder. Stir for about 1 minute. Next, add 1/4 cup of flour, stirring vigorously to coat the vegetables evenly. Keep stirring for 2-3 minutes until the mixture forms a pale blonde roux.

5. Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, one cup at a time, whisking constantly after each addition. Slowly add 2 cups of whole milk and then 1 cup of heavy cream, continuing to whisk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.

6. Melt the Cheese: Once the soup is simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add grated sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in handfuls, stirring constantly until each batch of cheese melts completely before adding more. Remember, do not allow the soup to boil after adding the cheese to prevent it from separating.

7. Cook the Macaroni: While the cheese is melting, bring a separate pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Cook 1 1/2 cups of elbow macaroni according to package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly.

8. Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken and drained macaroni to the cheese soup. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

9. Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley, chives, or extra cheddar cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

This soup is a warm hug in a bowl! The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty macaroni creates a filling dish that pleases everyone. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want a delightful meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

• Comforting and Hearty: The creamy texture will warm you up from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly days.
• Cheese Lovers’ Delight: With two types of cheese, this soup is irresistibly rich and satisfying.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Include your favorite veggies or swap proteins as you like.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Vegetable Boost: The addition of carrots and celery adds vitamins and minerals, making this soup a well-rounded dish.
• Calcium: The cheese and milk contribute to your daily calcium intake, which supports bone health.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

This soup can be a meal on its own but pairs well with some delicious sides. Consider serving it with:

• Crusty Bread: A nice piece of crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
• Salad: A fresh green salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: For those who love extra flavor, garlic bread can be a fantastic accompaniment.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

If you have leftovers, storing the soup is simple:

1. Cool: Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to a container.
2. Refrigerate: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Freeze: If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t Boil the Soup: Keep the heat low after adding cheese to prevent it from separating.
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth or milk until it’s just right.
• Shred Chicken Well: Ensure the chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the soup.

Variations

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include peas, corn, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try mixing in different cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for unique flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container, and reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to eat.

2. How can I make this soup healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using less cheese, replacing some of the cream with more broth, or adding extra vegetables.

3. Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the soup.

This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is sure to become a household favorite. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting choice that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking and, most importantly, enjoy your meal!

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