This cozy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup combines tender chicken, ham, and creamy cheese all in a warm bowl! It’s like your favorite sandwich, but in soup form. Yum!
I love how this soup warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Just mix it all together and let it bubble—perfect for chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Butter adds richness to the soup. You can substitute with olive oil or margarine for a lighter option. I prefer using unsalted butter to control the saltiness.
Onion: Yellow onions are best for their sweetness. If you’re out, shallots or even leeks can work well. They add a nice flavor too.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! You could also use leftover chicken or even turkey. If you want a vegetarian version, grilled mushrooms would be a good substitute.
Swiss Cheese: This cheese gives the soup its creamy, melty goodness. If you can’t find Swiss, try Gruyère or even mozzarella for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: While I use heavy cream for a rich texture, half-and-half or coconut milk can keep it lighter. If you’re avoiding dairy, try cashew cream instead!
How Do I Make the Perfect Roux?
Making a roux is essential for thickening the soup and adding a nice depth of flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat and melt your butter.
- Add the chopped onions and let them cook until soft—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste and form a smooth paste. Patience is key here!
This roux will be the base for your lovely soup, giving it a nice creamy consistency. Enjoy making it!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Optional: crusty bread or baguette slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to cook. So in just around 30-35 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly. This mixture is called a roux, and it will help thicken the soup. Cook the roux for about 2-3 minutes until it reaches a light golden color and the raw flour taste is gone.
3. Whisk in the Broth:
Slowly add the chicken broth while whisking to break up any lumps that form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add Chicken and Ham:
Once the broth is simmering, stir in the diced or shredded cooked chicken, diced ham, shredded Swiss cheese, dried thyme, and basil. Allow the cheese to melt and the soup to warm through for about 5 minutes.
5. Finish with Cream:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir to combine and let it simmer gently for another 5-7 minutes until the soup thickens a little. Be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded Swiss cheese and chopped fresh chives. Enjoy it warm with some crusty bread or baguette slices on the side for dipping!
This creamy, comforting soup captures all the wonderful flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a hearty bowl! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or by using the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, cook it fully before adding to the soup.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, Gruyère or provolone make excellent substitutes. You could also try mozzarella for a milder flavor or even cheddar for a sharper taste!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and ham, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Consider adding more veggies or beans for protein, and think about incorporating some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor!
