Alright, let’s get cooking! As someone who believes in the power of a good, home-cooked meal, I’m excited to share one of my family’s absolute favorites with you: Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that brings together the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy, satisfying broth.
Growing up, Chicken Cordon Bleu was always a special occasion dish. But let’s be honest, sometimes we crave those flavors without all the fuss. That’s where this soup comes in! It’s my way of simplifying the process while keeping all that incredible taste.
Through many kitchen adventures, I’ve discovered how to balance those rich, comforting flavors into something truly special. The secret? Using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to let those flavors meld together. I promise this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup will quickly become a requested dish in your home, too!
It’s my hope that this recipe will bring your family closer, one spoonful at a time. So grab your apron, and let’s create something wonderful together. I’m thrilled to guide you through the steps to making this heartwarming Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. For fellow flavor-seekers looking for genuine, flavorful meals, you’re in the right place!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. Trust me, this ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
- 2 tablespoons butter: I prefer unsalted butter for richer flavor control.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds a foundational savory sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced is best for a vibrant aroma.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium to manage saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the signature creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Gives a hint of warmth and spice.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced: Look for good quality ham with a slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded: The star of the show for that classic Cordon Bleu taste.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
- Optional: Croutons or crusty bread for serving: For extra texture and dipping!
You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup at your local farmer’s market or quality grocery store. My family loves when I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to our Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup for a little kick! This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices. This flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup reminds me of another family favorite, and it is so easy to make. Check out this recipe: Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits.
Let’s Create This Together!
Alright, let’s get started on this culinary adventure. These step-by-step instructions will help you create a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that your family will adore!
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This is the foundation of our flavor! Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup – learn from my experience! It’s very important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Meats
Gently stir in the shredded chicken and diced ham. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Don’t be surprised if your flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup develops a richer color and aroma during this time.
Cheese, Please!
Remove the pot from the heat and gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it’s completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Adding the cheese off the heat prevents it from clumping! While your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and croutons or crusty bread, if desired. In my kitchen, this creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Here’s a flavor-building wisdom that transformed our family dinners: don’t rush the simmering process! This is when the flavors truly come together. This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup – Chef in Training. It is important to remember that the creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup pairs perfectly with some artisan bread.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
Now that your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is ready, let’s talk about how to make the most of it! My family absolutely loves this soup, and we’ve discovered some fun ways to enjoy it.
We often serve this classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that creamy, flavorful broth! The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup appears with freshly baked bread.
This soup is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or serve at casual gatherings. I usually garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a few extra shreds of Swiss cheese for an extra touch of elegance. This satisfying Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup reminds me of another family favorite. Here is the link: Garlic Cheddar Potato Soup.
Leftovers (if there are any!) are fantastic for lunch the next day. I sometimes transform them into a creamy pasta sauce by tossing them with cooked noodles. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying!
For a seasonal twist, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables to the soup in the fall. It adds a delicious earthy dimension! My guests always rave about the creamy texture and rich flavors of this soup. They are always surprised to see how easy it is to make such a delicious creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Here are some common questions I get asked about making Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, answered with all the kitchen wisdom I’ve gathered over the years!
- Does this hearty Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup really satisfy hearty appetites? Absolutely! The combination of chicken, ham, and cheese makes it a filling and satisfying meal. My family always asks for seconds!
- What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their flavorful Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup? You can easily adjust the amount of Dijon mustard and smoked paprika to suit their taste. Using a milder Swiss cheese is another good option.
- How can I prepare this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup ahead for busy weeks? You can make the soup up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat and stir in the cheese until melted.
- Can I use a different type of cheese in this rich Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup? While Swiss is traditional, you could experiment with Gruyere or even a blend of Swiss and Parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Is it possible to make a lighter version of this easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup? Yes! Use low-fat chicken broth and milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a light Swiss cheese.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with this satisfying Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup? A simple green salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or some crusty bread are all great options.
- How long will leftovers of this homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup last in the refrigerator? Properly stored in an airtight container, leftovers will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
I’ve found that using high-quality ingredients really makes a difference in the flavor of this soup. One reader asked if they could add bacon to the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup and I thought it was a great idea! If your family loves these authentic flavors, they’ll appreciate this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup – Quick and Easy Comfort Meal!
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own version of this classic dish! This incredible Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup supports my family’s authentic meal goals by providing a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make option that everyone loves.
My Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Flavor Secrets:
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using good-quality chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Aromatics: Sautéing the onion and garlic is essential for building a flavorful base.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Family-Tested Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, peas, or carrots for added nutrients.
- Creamy Tomato: Add a can of diced tomatoes for a richer and more flavorful soup.
My son loves it with a spicy kick, while my daughter prefers the version with added vegetables. I encourage you to make it your signature version by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. I hope your family also enjoys this unique Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!
I truly hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. It’s a simple, satisfying way to bring everyone together around the table. With a little love and attention, you can create a truly special meal that will become a family favorite for years to come. And I am sure it will be one of your favorite Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup recipe. I wish you every success in your kitchen adventures, and I hope this warm, comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup becomes a cherished tradition in your home.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup takes all the classic flavors of the dish and transforms them into a comforting and easy-to-make soup. With tender chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, it’s a delicious twist on a favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- In a separate small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This is your roux.
- Gradually whisk the roux into the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir until smooth.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add milk and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in shredded chicken, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup has thickened slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. Serve with crusty bread or croutons for dipping.