If you have ever loved the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu dish but wished for it in a cozy, comforting bowl, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken and savory ham swimming in a lush, cheesy broth with hints of mustard and garlic, delivering all those familiar flavors in a warm and creamy soup form. It’s a perfect way to savor the essence of a rich meal while getting the soul-soothing satisfaction only homemade soup can bring. This recipe hits the spot whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a dinner that feels like a hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are simple but essential ingredients that combine to create a soup bursting with flavor and inviting texture. Each one plays a vital role, from the aromatic onion and garlic to the melt-in-your-mouth Swiss cheese, making sure each spoonful is a delight.
- Butter: Creates a smooth, savory base and helps sauté the aromatics for rich flavor development.
- Small onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with a gentle, savory warmth.
- Chicken broth: The core of the soup’s savory liquid, enhancing every ingredient.
- Cooked chicken, shredded: Provides tender protein, echoing the classic dish’s main star.
- Ham, diced: Adds a smoky, salty element that complements the creamy base.
- Swiss cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to give the soup its signature creamy and nutty flavor.
- Heavy cream: Brings luxurious richness and smooth texture.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to just the right consistency.
- Milk: Lightens up the soup slightly while maintaining creaminess.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper: Provides gentle heat and balances the richness.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Used as a garnish, it adds a fresh color and herbal brightness.
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics for a Flavorful Start
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. When it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aroma — this is the savory foundation your soup needs.
Step 2: Create the Roux for Perfect Creaminess
Next, sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about a minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and begins thickening the soup, resulting in that luscious, creamy texture you are craving.
Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth and Build the Base
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. This smooth mixture will be the heart of your soup, carrying all the flavors together in one delicious pot.
Step 4: Introduce the Meats and Mustard
Stir in the shredded chicken, diced ham, and Dijon mustard. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the meats to warm through and the mustard to weave its subtle tang into the broth. Let this mingle for about 10 minutes to fully develop the flavor.
Step 5: Mix in the Dairy for Richness
Slowly add the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, transforming the soup into a velvety, creamy delight that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Fold in the Swiss Cheese
Add the shredded Swiss cheese in small batches, ensuring each portion melts smoothly into the broth. This final cheesy step seals the deal on what makes this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe truly special.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. Remove the pot from the heat once the soup reaches your desired thickness. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness to every bowl.
How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped parsley on top doesn’t just brighten the soup visually; it lifts the flavors with a mild herbal note that keeps each spoonful lively and fresh. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a small handful of crispy croutons can add delightful texture and bite.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, balancing out the soup’s creamy richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in rustic bowls or soup crocks for a cozy, homey feel. For a more elegant touch, consider topping the soup with thin slices of smoked ham or a swirl of cream. Individual ramekins with a sprinkle of cheese and broiled until bubbly on top can transform this soup into a crowd-pleasing starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe into airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick reheats during busy days.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or cream if it seems too thick after reheating, restoring that creamy smoothness that makes it so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese instead of Swiss?
Yes! While Swiss cheese provides a classic nutty flavor, Gruyere or Emmental are excellent substitutes that melt well and complement the other ingredients beautifully.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken?
Using cooked chicken ensures the soup is ready within 40 minutes, but you can cook raw chicken in the broth first for extra flavor and shred it afterward if preferred.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You could adapt the recipe by omitting the chicken and ham and using vegetable broth, but it won’t have the signature Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor. Consider adding smoked tofu or mushrooms for texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work in a pinch, though the soup will be lighter and less creamy. Coconut cream is an alternative for a dairy-free version, but it will change the flavor profile.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy and slightly thickened but still spoonable and smooth, similar to a chowder consistency. Adjust thickness by adding broth or cream as needed during cooking or reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe is a delightful way to transform familiar, elegant flavors into a cozy, comforting meal perfect for any day. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Go ahead and bring this warm bowl of goodness to your table—you won’t regret it!
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a rich and creamy soup inspired by the classic dish, combining shredded chicken, diced ham, and melted Swiss cheese in a velvety broth. This comforting recipe is perfect for a cozy meal, delivering classic flavors with a smooth, cheesy texture.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Proteins and Flavorings
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Dairy and Finishing Ingredients
- 1½ cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring continuously to form a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain for a smooth soup base.
- Incorporate Proteins and Flavor: Add the shredded chicken, diced ham, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and let the flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
- Add Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream and milk gradually, cooking for another 5 minutes until the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Melt Cheese and Season: Add the shredded Swiss cheese in small batches, stirring until fully melted. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Once the soup reaches your desired thickness, remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stove to preserve creaminess.
- Use leftover roasted chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Adjust the cream and milk quantities for a thicker or lighter soup texture.
- For a lower fat version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.
