This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings all the flavors of the classic dish into a warm, creamy bowl. With tasty chicken, ham, and oozy Swiss cheese, it’s pure comfort food!
I love to serve this soup with some crunchy bread on the side. Honestly, who doesn’t enjoy cheesy goodness in soup form? It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or cubed chicken breast gives a nice texture. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or even leftover chicken from another meal.
Ham: Diced ham is a must for that classic flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey ham or even cooked bacon works well!
Swiss Cheese: Swiss brings that lovely melting quality. If you can’t find it, feel free to substitute with Gruyère or even mozzarella for a different taste.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, half and half or whole milk can be a good substitute, but the soup will be less rich.
How Do I Make the Perfect Roux?
The roux is essential for giving this soup a lovely thick base. To create it, sprinkle flour over the softened onions and celery. Stir it constantly for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for a smooth soup.
- Always use medium heat and be patient.
- After adding the broth and cream, whisk diligently to prevent lumps and ensure a silky texture.
How Can I Ensure My Soup is Flavorful?
Seasoning is key! When you add thyme and nutmeg, these spices enhance the flavor profile. Always taste and adjust before serving; a bit more salt or pepper can make all the difference!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. A quick and satisfying meal that warms you up perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and become a bit translucent. Your kitchen will start smelling great!
2. Add Flavorful Aromatics:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown!
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup later.
4. Add Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir continuously to avoid any lumps forming until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
5. Season and Simmer:
Add the dried thyme, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens beautifully.
6. Mix in Chicken and Ham:
Stir in the shredded chicken, diced ham, and Swiss cheese. Continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts completely and the soup is warmed through.
7. Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper or any additional spices if desired. Every bite should be delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Swiss cheese and freshly chopped chives or parsley. If you like, enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side for that perfect meal!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that’s packed with classic cordon bleu flavors in every warm spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives a traditional flavor, you can substitute it with Gruyère or even mozzarella for a different texture and taste.
How Can I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup while it simmers until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the soup may thicken as it cools; add a bit of broth or cream when reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the cream and cheese to maintain texture.
