Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu into a comforting, creamy soup form. With tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese in a rich, velvety broth, this soup is a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. It’s easy to make and combines all the best flavors of the beloved chicken cordon bleu without any frying or complicated steps.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add the diced chicken, ham, and garlic powder to the pot, stirring to incorporate. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Swiss cheese, continuing to cook until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasonings as desired.
7. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Smoked Ham: Use smoked ham for a richer, more intense flavor.
2. Different Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère, fontina, or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
3. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup to give it a bit of heat.
4. Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and ham and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian option.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Be careful not to let it boil as the cream may separate.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?
   It’s best to use cooked chicken for this soup, but you can use raw chicken if you sauté or cook it first before adding to the pot.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors may even improve after sitting overnight.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
   While freezing is not ideal for soups with dairy (as cream can separate), you can freeze the soup before adding the cream and cheese. Thaw, reheat, and then add the cream and cheese when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I use a different type of broth?
   Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or even a ham broth for extra flavor, though chicken broth is the most traditional choice.
5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version of the soup.
6. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, but freshly shredded Swiss cheese will melt more smoothly and evenly.
7. What other seasonings can I add to the soup?
   You can add thyme, rosemary, or mustard powder for additional flavor depth. A splash of white wine could also enhance the soup’s taste.
8. Is this soup gluten-free?
   No, this recipe contains flour to thicken the soup, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the broth.
9. How can I make the soup thicker?
   If you want a thicker soup, you can whisk in a little more flour or cornstarch. You can also cook the soup a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
10. Can I serve this soup with bread?
    Yes, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or even a light salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a classic chicken cordon bleu with the warmth and ease of a soup. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hearty lunch, this recipe is simple to make and packs a lot of flavor into each spoonful. With tender chicken, savory ham, melty cheese, and a silky broth, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy and delight everyone at the table.

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