Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is your new best friend. This creamy, comforting soup combines tender chunks of chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese to create a rich, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any day. Filled with comforting flavors and a smooth texture, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup delivers that perfect blend of hearty and cozy you’ve been searching for in one bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Comfort Food: This soup brings the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavors into a cozy, creamy soup perfect for any season.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love the familiar taste of chicken, ham, and cheese in every spoonful.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients or add veggies to cater to your taste or dietary needs.
- Hearty yet Light: Despite its creamy texture, this soup is nourishing without feeling too heavy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together beautifully to create the rich, velvety texture and classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. Each component plays its part, whether it’s tender chicken for protein, ham for saltiness, or cheese for that indulgent creaminess.
- Chicken Breast: Skinless, boneless chicken provides the tender protein base essential for the soup.
- Deli Ham: Adds a smoky, salty punch that perfectly complements the chicken.
- Swiss Cheese: Melts smoothly for rich flavor and creamy consistency.
- Butter: Used for sautéing and adds a silky mouthfeel to the soup.
- Flour: Helps thicken the soup to the perfect velvety texture.
- Milk and Chicken Broth: The liquid base that balances creaminess with savory depth.
- Onion and Garlic: For aromatic layers that enhance every bite.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out all the flavors.
- Fresh Thyme: A subtle herbal note that rounds out the profile.
Variations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Don’t hesitate to tweak this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. The versatility of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup lets you make it your own with just a few simple swaps or add-ins.
- Vegetable Boost: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyère or mozzarella if you want a different cheesy twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Use heavy cream instead of milk and omit the flour for a keto-friendly option.
- Turkey Twist: Substitute chicken and ham with turkey breast and turkey ham for a leaner taste.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little heat.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chopping the ham into small cubes. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion to build flavor from the base.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken and cook until just about done, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the cooked chicken and onions, stirring constantly to combine. This roux will thicken the soup and create that luscious creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Ham
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking to eliminate lumps. Toss in the diced ham and fresh thyme, then bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheese
Once the soup has thickened slightly, reduce heat and stir in shredded Swiss cheese until completely melted and smooth, giving the soup that signature creamy richness.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and get ready to enjoy a soul-warming meal!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, ham, and cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook chicken just until opaque to keep it tender and juicy.
- Stir Constantly When Adding Flour: This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth roux for perfect thickness.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
- Adjust Thickness as Needed: Add more milk or broth if the soup becomes too thick when it cools.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Garnishes
Top your soup with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A sprinkle of extra shredded Swiss or crispy bacon bits can add crunch and indulgence.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light mixed green salad to balance the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic touch, or drizzle a little browned butter on top for an extra depth of flavor that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more during this time.
Freezing
This soup freezes well; just cool completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup back to its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and still infuse the soup with delicious, tender protein.
Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes very well. Just be sure to cool it thoroughly before freezing and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free milk, and choose a non-dairy cheese option that melts well.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Swiss cheese is classic for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, but Gruyère or mozzarella are excellent alternatives if you want a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms work beautifully and boost both nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is an absolute delight when you want something easy, flavorful, and heartwarming. It effortlessly combines the best of creamy soup with the signature flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this soup has all the comfort and richness to become a fast favorite. Don’t wait to try it—you’ll wonder why you never thought to turn this classic dish into a cozy, spoonable experience before!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a rich, velvety broth. This soul-warming soup perfectly captures the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in an easy-to-make, family-friendly meal that’s hearty yet light, ideal for any season.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 2 cups skinless, boneless chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup deli ham, chopped into small cubes
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk
Thickening and Liquids
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
Aromatics and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and chop the ham into small cubes. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion to create a flavorful base.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Then add the diced chicken and cook until nearly done, stirring occasionally.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked chicken, onions, and garlic. Stir constantly to combine and cook the roux, which will thicken the soup and give it a smooth, creamy texture.
- Add Liquids and Ham: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the diced ham and fresh thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Melt in the Cheese: Once the soup thickens slightly, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Cook chicken just until opaque to keep it tender and juicy.
- Stir constantly when adding flour to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth roux.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for better melting.
- Adjust soup thickness by adding more milk or broth if it becomes too thick upon cooling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu, creamy soup, comfort food, chicken soup, ham and cheese soup