Description
This Soul-Satisfying Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is a rich and comforting dish combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and tender elbow macaroni. Perfect for chilly days, this hearty soup is easy to make on the stovetop and offers a delicious twist on classic chicken and cheese flavors in a warm, creamy broth.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux, which will thicken the soup base.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, ensuring no lumps. Then add the milk and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to start the soup base cooking.
- Cook Macaroni: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until the pasta is tender yet firm, absorbing flavorful liquid during cooking.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and mustard powder if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
- Finish Cooking: Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat everything through and marry the flavors perfectly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, ladle into bowls, and serve hot for a soul-warming meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut to save prep time.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or use sharp cheddar cheese for tanginess.
- This soup thickens as it cools; when reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.
- Adjust seasoning carefully at the end since cheeses can add saltiness.
