This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup offers all the classic flavors of the beloved dish in a rich and creamy soup form. With shredded chicken, diced ham, and melted Swiss cheese in every bite, it’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor. The addition of garlic, onions, and Dijon mustard enhances the depth, while the creamy base brings everything together into a smooth and velvety soup. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: Corn and black beans for added texture and flavor
Directions:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Create the Roux:
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to create a smooth paste, ensuring the flour is fully cooked and the raw taste is eliminated.
- Add Broth and Protein:
- Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Once the broth is incorporated, add the shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of milk, keeping the heat on low to prevent curdling.
- Gradually add the shredded Swiss cheese in small batches, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
- Final Simmer and Seasoning:
- Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and salt to taste.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to develop.
- If using corn and black beans, stir them in during this final simmer.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with toasted garlic bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a lighter accompaniment.
- Garnish with extra shredded Swiss cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the rich flavors.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly shredded Swiss cheese for better melting, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Cook the roux (flour and butter mixture) thoroughly to avoid a raw flour taste in the soup.
- Gradually stir in the cheese over low heat to prevent clumping or curdling.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for heavy cream.
- Add corn and black beans during the final simmer for extra texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the chicken and ham, supporting muscle health.
- Rich in calcium from the Swiss cheese and milk, promoting strong bones.
- Good source of healthy fats from the cream and butter.
- Vegetable-rich option if you add corn and black beans, providing fiber and additional nutrients.
- Contains antioxidants from the garlic, onions, and parsley, promoting immune health.
Dietary Information:
- Rich in protein
- Low in carbohydrates (without optional additions)
- Gluten-free option (use gluten-free flour)
- Vegetarian adaptation possible by replacing chicken and ham with tofu or hearty vegetables
- Can be made lighter by using milk alternatives like almond or low-fat cream
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, and reheat slowly to maintain the creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- It’s a comforting and rich soup that brings together classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu.
- The creamy, cheesy base and hearty chicken and ham make it a satisfying meal on its own.
- It’s easy to customize with additional vegetables or cheese varieties to suit your taste.
- The recipe is versatile enough to adapt to dietary preferences, such as using low-fat dairy or plant-based alternatives.
- It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as an elegant starter for a special occasion.
Conclusion:
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, cheesy broth loaded with shredded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. With just the right balance of flavors from the Dijon mustard and fresh parsley, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, its satisfying creaminess and classic flavors will keep you coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and adds extra flavor, making the preparation even faster. - Can I substitute another cheese for Swiss cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone can be substituted for a slightly different flavor while maintaining the creaminess. - How do I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep the soup thick and creamy. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it’s best to freeze it without the cream. Add the cream when reheating to avoid texture changes. - What vegetables can I add to this soup?
You can add spinach, mushrooms, corn, or carrots for extra nutrients and texture.