How to Make Creamy Mac and Cheese Chicken Soup

Introduction

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Creamy mac and cheese chicken soup combines the cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the heartiness of chicken soup. This delicious blend is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of warmth and satisfaction. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper.

Cooking the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken

In the same pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Making the Soup Base

Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Creating the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Adding Broth and Milk

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the milk and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the soup starts to thicken.

Combining Ingredients

Adding Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they are fully melted and the soup is creamy. If using, add the mustard powder for an extra flavor boost.

Incorporating Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the pot, followed by the cooked macaroni. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Adding Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Allow the soup to heat through but avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent the cheese from separating.

Final Touches

Adjusting Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Garnishing

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your creamy, cheesy soup.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy mac and cheese chicken soup is a meal in itself, but you can serve it with:

• A side salad for some extra greens.
• Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips and Tricks

Ensuring the Best Flavor

• Use high-quality cheese for the best taste and texture.
• Don’t skip the step of cooking the flour with the butter; this prevents a raw flour taste.
• Gradually add the liquids while stirring to avoid lumps in the soup.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t overcook the macaroni initially, as it will cook further in the soup.
• Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
• Stir frequently to ensure even melting of the cheese and prevent sticking.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delicious, comforting bowl of creamy mac and cheese chicken soup! This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm, cheesy, and hearty. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Can I freeze creamy mac and cheese chicken soup?

Freezing creamy soups can be tricky as they might separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and whisk well to recombine the ingredients.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the soup may be less creamy.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots. Add them when you sauté the onions to ensure they cook through.