Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups, shredded cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
- 6 cups, low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup, uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups, shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup, heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons, unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup, all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon, dried thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside. Meanwhile, in a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Step 2: Whisk the flour into the melted butter and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and bring the mixture to a low simmer. Continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the soup base slightly thickens.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and the dried thyme. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Do not allow the soup to boil once the cheese is added.
- Step 4: Stir the shredded cooked chicken and the drained macaroni into the cheesy soup base. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) as needed.
- Step 5: Continue to cook on low heat for 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken and macaroni are heated through, then ladle the Cozy Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Store leftovers promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping in mind that the macaroni will continue to absorb liquid over time.
- To reheat, use low heat on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or extra chicken broth to restore the original creamy consistency and prevent the cheese from separating.
- For a final flourish, garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of toasted panko breadcrumbs to add color and a satisfying textural crunch.
- Remember the golden rule for creamy soups: cooking the macaroni al dente in Step 1 prevents it from becoming overly soft or mushy once it finishes absorbing the luscious cheese base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American