Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Imagine a cozy bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness that hugs you from the inside out—welcome to Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup. This soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, cheesy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with the savory, warming flavors of homemade chicken soup. It’s perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or any time you crave a heartwarming meal that pleases kids and adults alike. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility: blend in roasted vegetables for extra nutrition or keep it simple for picky eaters. Served with fizzy lemonade, apple cider, or a non-alcoholic wine alternative, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent while still being comforting
• Packed with tender chicken, hearty macaroni, and flavorful vegetables
• Family-friendly and ideal for picky eaters
• Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables or extra toppings
• Makes generous servings—perfect for meal prep or leftovers

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced) – Adds protein and hearty flavor; can use pre-cooked or freshly seared chicken breasts.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) – Sauté vegetables and create a base for the creamy soup.
• Yellow onion (1 large, finely diced) – Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and diced) – Provides natural sweetness and texture.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds subtle earthiness and crunch.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses savory flavor.
• Dried thyme (½ teaspoon) – Adds warm, herbal notes.
• Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon) – Gives a subtle smoky depth.
• Dry mustard powder (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances cheese flavor.
• All-purpose flour (¼ cup) – Thickens the soup into a creamy consistency.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (6 cups) – Forms the flavorful base.
• Whole milk (2 cups) & Heavy cream (1 cup) – Create rich, velvety creaminess.
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Elbow macaroni (1½ cups, uncooked) – Provides the classic mac and cheese texture.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (4 cups, freshly grated) – Melts into smooth, cheesy goodness.
• Monterey Jack cheese (½ cup, freshly grated) – Adds creamy mildness and meltability.
• Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, chives, extra cheddar, crispy bacon, or croutons for texture and presentation.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Prep the Ingredients

Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and grate the cheeses. If using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs chicken breasts in 1 tablespoon olive oil until cooked through, then shred or dice.

Sauté Vegetables and Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 8–10 minutes until softened. Add garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder; cook 2 more minutes until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Base

Stir in the flour and cook for 2–3 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and season with salt and pepper.

Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack, stirring constantly until fully melted. Avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from separating.

Cook the Pasta

Separately, cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain thoroughly.

Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Soup

Add cooked chicken and drained macaroni to the soup. Stir gently and simmer on low for 5–10 minutes to meld flavors. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.

Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, chives, extra cheese, or crumbled crispy bacon for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and richer flavor.
• Don’t boil after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
• Adjust thickness by adding more broth or cream as needed.
• Blend in vegetables like roasted squash, asparagus, or corn for extra nutrition.

Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot
• Medium pot for cooking macaroni
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable-Loaded: Blend in roasted butternut squash, asparagus tips, or corn for seasonal flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat.
• Low-Fat Option: Substitute half-and-half or reduced-fat milk for heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or soft dinner rolls.
• Pair with a light green salad for balance.
• Offer garnishes like fresh herbs, crispy bacon, or croutons to add texture and color.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully and flavors meld even more after sitting in the fridge for a few hours.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and add extra milk if the soup thickens too much.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a convenient shortcut and works perfectly.

What if I want it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

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Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is comfort food at its finest: cheesy, hearty, and filled with tender chicken and pasta. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping for the week. Serve it up, enjoy every indulgent bite, and watch it become a family favorite. Every spoonful is a warm hug in a bowl—truly the ultimate comfort dish.