Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup - Gluten Free Cooking Guide

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup combines the rich flavors of a classic macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of chicken soup. Whether it’s a chilly day or a family gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it an instant favorite, while its versatility allows you to add seasonal vegetables for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort: This soup combines two beloved classics into one delicious dish.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, you can easily blend in veggies for added nutrition.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or asparagus.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Perfect for Leftovers: Great for meal prep; it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, a few essential tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for preparing soups; provides enough space to mix ingredients without spilling.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when dicing vegetables, making prep faster and safer.

Ingredients

For this delectable Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, gather the following 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
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

1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

For the Cheese

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

Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Grate the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If you’re using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked through, then shred or dice them; alternatively, use 3 cups of pre-cooked chicken.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8-10 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base

Stir in ¼ cup of flour; cook for about 2-3 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the 6 cups of chicken broth followed by the 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the grated sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to maintain its creamy texture.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until it is al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly before adding it to the soup.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked chicken (or your pre-cooked option) along with the drained macaroni to the soup base. Stir gently and allow everything to simmer on low for about 5-10 minutes so that flavors can meld together. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired before serving!

Enjoy your deliciously comforting Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this comforting soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Freshly baked baguette – Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
Garlic bread – Toasted garlic bread brings a flavorful twist, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the soup.

Add Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Snipped chives – A sprinkle of chives adds a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Top with Crunch

Crumbled Turkey Bacon – For a savory crunch, add crumbled crispy turkey bacon on top of each bowl.
Homemade croutons – These can be made from leftover bread, providing texture and flavor contrast.

Serve with a Salad

Mixed greens salad – A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
Caesar salad – The creamy dressing pairs well with the cheesy flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup takes just a few tips and tricks. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

Use quality ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Adjust thickness – If the soup is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth or milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
Add spices thoughtfully – Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs to customize the flavor profile.
Cook macaroni separately – Cooking macaroni al dente before adding it to the soup prevents it from becoming mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Garden Salad – A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tosses lightly in vinaigrette adds brightness.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and provide added nutrition alongside the soup.
Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a hearty side that complements the soup’s creaminess.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a comforting side that pairs well with any creamy dish.
Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast in texture while still being comforting.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic work as an indulgent side that matches well with chicken flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni until it’s al dente. If overcooked, it can become mushy in the soup.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and cheeses for the best flavor. Processed ingredients can lead to a bland soup.
Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually add cheese over low heat. Adding it too quickly can result in a grainy texture instead of a creamy soup.
Not Combining Properly: When mixing in the chicken and macaroni, do it gently to avoid breaking up the pasta and chicken pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval for even heating.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors.

How can I customize this Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

You can add vegetables like peas or spinach, or switch up the protein by using turkey or beef instead of chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just comforting but incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful bowl of warmth that your family will love!