Ingredients:

• Chicken Breast: 2 large, cooked and shredded (about 2 cups)
• Ham: 1 cup, diced
• Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 small, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Milk: 1 cup
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
• Swiss Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Parsley: for garnish (optional)
• Croutons or Toasted Baguette Slices: for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes to remove the raw taste. This roux will help thicken the soup.
3. Add the Broth:
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to incorporate the roux into the liquid. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the Cream, Milk, and Mustard:
   • Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and Dijon mustard. Let the soup simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Chicken, Ham, and Cheese:
   • Add the shredded chicken, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with croutons or toasted baguette slices for dipping, and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a bowl.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 380 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

• Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Just shred it and add it to the soup.

2. Can I substitute the Swiss cheese with another type of cheese?

• Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a traditional flavor, you can substitute it with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.

3. How do I make this soup gluten-free?

• Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Use about half the amount of cornstarch to thicken the soup.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese. Note that this may slightly alter the flavor.

5. How do I reheat leftovers without curdling the soup?

• Reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from curdling.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup:

1. Use Good-Quality Cheese – Freshly shredded Swiss cheese melts better and adds a creamy texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it can be less creamy when melted.
2. Adjust Consistency to Your Preference – If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer a bit longer, or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux. For a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth or milk.
3. Cook the Chicken in Broth for Extra Flavor – If cooking the chicken specifically for this recipe, consider cooking it in chicken broth for added flavor. You can then shred it and use the broth in the soup.
4. Add Fresh Herbs for Flavor – Fresh parsley, chives, or even thyme add a bright, fresh element to this rich soup. Add them as a garnish or stir in a small amount before serving.
5. Serve with Crusty Bread – A slice of toasted baguette or croutons on top adds a delightful crunch and balances the creamy texture of the soup.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.
• Freezing: Cream-based soups don’t always freeze well, as the texture may change when thawed. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider making it without the cream and cheese, then adding them fresh when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid curdling the cheese. If the soup has thickened, add a little milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion:

Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings the beloved flavors of a classic dish into a comforting, creamy bowl. With tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, each spoonful delivers a warm, satisfying taste of French-inspired comfort food. This soup is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite garnishes and sides, like croutons or a toasted baguette. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or as an appetizer, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is sure to delight with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy every spoonful of this cozy, flavorful soup!