As the chilly nights creep in, nothing beats curling up with a steaming bowl of warmth. My Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is the ultimate remedy for those cold evenings when you crave something comforting yet satisfying. This easy soup recipe combines tender chicken and creamy, velvety cheese with elbow macaroni, creating a delightful high-protein meal perfect for any home-cook. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also turns leftovers into something magical, allowing you to savor every last drop. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this soup promises to bring everyone together around the table. What toppings will you choose to elevate your comforting bowl of goodness?

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Why Is This Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup wraps you in a delightful hug with every spoonful, perfect for those chilly nights.

Simple Yet Satisfying: With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll whip this up in no time, making it an easy weeknight meal.

High-Protein Goodness: Packed with chicken and cheese, it’s not just comfort food; it’s a nutritious option that keeps you fueled throughout your day.

Leftover Transformation: Turn yesterday’s rotisserie chicken into a mouthwatering dish—nothing goes to waste here!

Versatile Toppings: Elevate your experience with garnishes like crispy croutons or fresh herbs. If you’re in the mood for more flavors, try it alongside a refreshing salad or garlic bread, just like with this Baked Chicken Tenders.

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Cooked Chicken – Use shredded or diced rotisserie chicken for great flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness and flavor; always best to avoid salted butter.
Yellow Onion – Finely diced, it adds depth to the soup’s foundation.
Carrots – Peeled and finely diced for a hint of sweetness that balances the dish.
Celery – Finely diced, it contributes a refreshing crunch.
Garlic – Minced to bring an aromatic boost to the soup.
Dried Thyme – Adds earthy notes for that classic flavor profile.
Smoked Paprika – Introduces a delightful smoky depth to the soup.
Dry Mustard Powder – Offers a tangy kick that enhances the flavor blend.

For Thickening

All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickener to create that creamy consistency.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Keeps the soup flavorful without overdoing the salt.
Whole Milk – Contributes extra creaminess and richness to the soup.
Heavy Cream – Makes the soup luxuriously thick and satisfying.

For the Noodles & Cheese

Elbow Macaroni – Uncooked, they’re the perfect size for sipping through your spoon.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Freshly grated for optimal melting and flavor; this is the star of the show!
Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds a silky texture, complementing the cheddar nicely.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh Parsley or Chives – Sprinkle for a pop of color and freshness.
Extra Shredded Cheddar – Top with more cheese for an indulgent finish.
Crispy Croutons – Add for delightful crunch and texture.

Indulge in the comforting embrace of Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, where every ingredient plays a role in creating a heartwarming dish that feels just like home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by gathering and chopping your ingredients. Finely dice the yellow onion, peel and dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. Grate the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, ensuring they are ready for melting later. This preparation not only speeds up your cooking process but also ensures a smooth flow when making the Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

Step 2: Cook Chicken (if raw)
If you haven’t pre-cooked your chicken, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add boneless chicken breasts and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred or dice it to incorporate into your soup. This step adds delicious protein to your Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder, stirring for an additional 2 minutes until the aromas bloom. This aromatic base is essential in building flavor for your creamy soup.

Step 4: Create Roux & Soup Base
Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring consistently for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by 1 cup of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often, and season to taste with salt and pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates the luscious base of your Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

Step 5: Melt Cheese
Once the soup base is simmering, lower the heat and stir in 2 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses are completely melted and smoothly integrated into the soup. This rich cheesy blend is the heart of your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, adding a delightful richness.

Step 6: Cook Macaroni
In a separate pot, cook 1 1/2 cups of elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 7-8 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures the macaroni retains its perfect texture while soaking up all the flavors of the soup when added back in.

Step 7: Combine & Serve
Finally, add the cooked and drained macaroni and the shredded chicken back into the creamy soup. Let everything simmer on low for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once heated through, ladle the Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, shredded cheddar, or crispy croutons as desired.

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How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the soup creamy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 1 month. Ensure to leave space at the top as the soup may expand. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the soup base (minus cheese) ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Add cheese and macaroni before serving for optimal freshness.

Reheating: When reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, and adjust consistency with milk or broth as required.

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this creamy delight your own with these delicious twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based meat alternative for a satisfying vegetarian soup. The cheesy goodness remains irresistible!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone can enjoy this comforting bowl. It’s just as creamy and delightful!
Cheesy Upgrade: Try adding fontina or gouda cheese for a unique flavor twist. Each addition brings a new depth of creaminess that elevates the entire dish.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce while simmering, adding warmth without overpowering the comfort of the soup.
Loaded Veggie Boost: Toss in some frozen peas or fresh spinach right before serving to sneak in extra nutrition and color. They’ll brighten the flavors beautifully!
Creamy Vegan Version: For a plant-based approach, substitute cream with coconut milk and cheese with a vegan alternative. You can still enjoy a rich, creamy texture without dairy.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like dill or basil during the cooking process. They infuse delightful, fresh flavors that will keep everyone asking for seconds.
Broth Variations: Swap low-sodium chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based while enriching the flavors of the soup. A simple switch can make this dish more inclusive!

This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is all about comfort and creativity! Speaking of comforting dishes, you might also want to try this hearty Fiery Chicken Ramen or skip right to dessert with a delightful Cottage Cheese Blueberry! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged to avoid clumping and to ensure a creamy, smooth melt.
Adjust Gradually: When adding seasoning, do so little by little. Tasting as you go helps balance flavors in your Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup without overdoing it.
Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni until al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the hot soup. This keeps your dish from being mushy.
Thickening Alternatives: If you need to make a gluten-free Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, use cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of flour.
Add Spice Safely: For a little heat, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, but start with a small amount and adjust based on your preference.
Reheat Wisely: When storing leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to maintain a creamy consistency, preventing the soup from thickening too much.

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Elevate your comforting bowl with delicious sides that will round out this cozy meal perfectly.

Warm Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding an aromatic touch to each bite.
Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and vegetables will balance the richness, adding vibrant colors and crunch. Consider a light vinaigrette to brighten the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts enhance the meal with their charred sweetness, complementing the creamy flavors.
Savory Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet, and crumbly, cornbread is an all-time favorite when served alongside soups, soaking up every delicious drop.
Cheddar Bay Biscuits: These buttery, garlic-infused biscuits bring a touch of indulgence and are delightful when dipped into the soup.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with cinnamon will provide a satisfying, sweet finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory soup.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like homemade iced tea or lemonade offer a cool contrast to the warmth of the creamy soup, keeping the meal enjoyable.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of white wine enhances the flavors, providing a delightful pairing to this hearty comfort food.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The soup base (minus the cheese) can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days as well, helping you save time on hectic evenings. To maintain quality, let the base cool before refrigerating, and simply reheat on the stovetop; stir in your freshly grated cheeses just before serving for that perfect melty finish. Enjoy a comforting bowl of deliciousness with minimal effort after a long day!

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Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using cooked chicken, like shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken, adds depth and flavor. If using raw, sear boneless chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown, usually about 6-7 minutes per side, to ensure moisture and flavor in your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your soup at its best, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this heartwarming soup! Pour it into suitable containers, leaving space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding milk to adjust the texture if necessary.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup has thickened too much after cooking or during reheating, don’t worry! Just add a little more milk or chicken broth, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Always remember to heat it slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch as a thickener, and use gluten-free elbow macaroni. Additionally, if you’re looking for a vegetarian dish, you can swap out the chicken for plant-based alternatives and the broth for vegetable broth if desired.

What toppings work best with this soup?
The more the merrier! For a delightful finish, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives, or sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for that extra cheesiness. Crispy croutons also add a lovely crunch, elevating your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup experience!