This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It’s packed with tender chicken, ham, and cheesy flavor that will warm your heart.
What’s not to love? The creamy broth brings it all together perfectly, making it a fast favorite at my table. Just serve with some crusty bread for a tasty meal! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is great for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly too, saving you time. If you need a vegetarian option, you can swap for shredded mushrooms or tofu.
Diced Ham: Any cooked ham will do! For a healthier version, you could use turkey ham, or if you’re avoiding pork, try diced turkey or a plant-based deli slice instead.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese gives that signature flavor. If you can’t find it, Gruyère or even provolone are tasty substitutes. For a dairy-free option, check out vegan cheese alternatives.
Heavy Cream: The cream makes the soup rich and velvety. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, you can use half-and-half or even substitute with coconut milk, which adds a nice flavor!
How Do I Make the Roux Without Clumps?
Creating a roux is key to thickening your soup smoothly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Begin with melted butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until they’re soft.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon for about 2 minutes. This helps cook the flour, removing any raw taste.
- Add the broth gradually. Whisk as you pour to help break up any clumps that might form. A steady hand will keep the mixture smooth!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 4 slices cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner and cozy enough for a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant. This is where the base flavor starts to build!
2. Create the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon for about 2 minutes. This helps to cook the flour and remove its raw taste, which is key for a smooth soup!
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Keep stirring to ensure there are no lumps. Once combined, stir in the dried thyme and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook it for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Stir in the Cream:
Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to heat through but avoid boiling it at this stage.
5. Add Chicken and Ham:
Gently fold in the shredded chicken and diced ham into the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to warm everything through.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and add in the shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and creamy, creating that comforting texture we love!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly chopped chives or green onions. Pair it with warm crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!
This creamy, flavorful soup is sure to give you all the comforting vibes of Chicken Cordon Bleu in every spoonful. Enjoy!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds a boost of flavor. Just shred the chicken from the bones and use it in the recipe as directed.
How Can I Thicken the Soup More?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can create a slurry by mixing an extra tablespoon of flour with a little cold water, then whisk it into the simmering soup. Let it cook a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the soup up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore creaminess, as it may thicken in the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
