This Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a luxurious, comforting twist on the classic French dish. With tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese in a rich and creamy broth, it’s the perfect soup for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup diced ham
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese:
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyere for a richer flavor)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Optional Garnishes:
- Croutons
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3–5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Build the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the Chicken and Ham
- Stir in the shredded chicken and diced ham.
- Add the Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Add the Creamy Components
- Slowly stir in the milk and heavy cream, reducing the heat to low.
- Gradually add the Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Taste and Adjust
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a touch of mustard if desired.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with croutons, fresh parsley, or extra shredded cheese for a finishing touch.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
- Shred Your Cheese Fresh: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and extra flavor, use shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the soup while simmering.
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the flour with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken and ham with mushrooms and extra Swiss cheese for a meatless delight.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freeze: Avoid freezing, as the dairy may separate. If you must freeze, omit the cream and cheese, then add them fresh when reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: All the best parts of Chicken Cordon Bleu in soup form.
- Comforting: Perfect for cozy nights and family dinners.
- Simple to Make: Easy steps with big, delicious results.
Enjoy this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup—a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness that will warm you up from the inside out! 🥣✨
