Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings the classic flavors of the beloved dish into a creamy, comforting bowl. Tender chicken, savory ham, and rich melted Swiss cheese combine to create a hearty soup that’s perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something both familiar and fresh. This recipe offers a delicious twist on tradition and is surprisingly easy to make.

I first tried this soup on a chilly evening when I craved that familiar Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor but wanted something easier to eat and share. It quickly became a favorite that my whole family asks for again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: diced for tender bites that soak up flavors
• 1 cup cooked ham: diced for that smoky savory touch. Turkey ham can lighten it up
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese: melting smoothly for that signature cheesy richness. Gruyère is a great alternative if you want a nuttier taste
• 1 medium onion: chopped to add sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic: minced for a fragrant base
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth: creates the hearty soup foundation
• 1 cup heavy cream: lends creaminess and rich texture. Half and half can be used to keep it lighter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: to sauté the aromatics gently
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: for an earthy herbal note
• Salt and pepper: to taste for perfect seasoning
• Fresh parsley: for garnish and a burst of color (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about five minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful base that lifts the whole soup.

Cook the Chicken:

Add the diced chicken to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir frequently and cook for six to eight minutes until the chicken pieces are no longer pink and are just cooked through. This prevents drying out while locking in moisture.

Add the Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about ten minutes. This helps the chicken flavors infuse into the broth making it savory and rich.

Incorporate the Ham and Cream:

Stir in the cooked ham and heavy cream. Simmer for five to seven minutes allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to warm through. This addition brings the luxurious creamy texture and savory notes typical of Chicken Cordon Bleu.

Add Cheese:

Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it melts completely creating a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Adding the cheese off heat keeps it silky and prevents graininess.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of vibrant color. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy comforting dish.

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Swiss cheese is my favorite part of this soup. Its nutty flavor and melting quality tie all the ingredients together beautifully. One memory that sticks with me is making this soup for a family gathering. Watching everyone’s faces light up as they recognized that classic flavor in a new form reaffirmed why cooking for loved ones is so special.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to three days. For longer storage freeze the soup in a freezer safe container for up to three months. When reheating add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick and warm gently on the stove for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Rotisserie chicken in place of raw chicken will save cooking time and add a nice smoky flavor
• Try smoked turkey or crispy bacon instead of ham to mix up the flavor profile
• If Swiss cheese is not available cheddar or Monterey Jack work well and provide a different but enjoyable taste

Serving Suggestions

This soup goes great with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every creamy bite. A fresh garden salad can balance out the richness and make the meal feel complete. For extra texture sprinkle crispy fried onions or extra shredded cheese on top.

Cultural Context

Chicken Cordon Bleu is a classic French-inspired dish traditionally involving breaded chicken stuffed with ham and cheese. Transforming it into a soup offers a creative take that keeps those signature tastes while making it easier to enjoy as a comforting meal. This soup captures the essence of that traditional indulgence but with a cozy twist.

Pro Tips

• Toast the thyme briefly at the start with the onions to deepen its flavor
• Do not add the cheese while the pot is on heat to avoid grainy texture
• Use full fat cream for the richest final result but switch to half and half or milk to lighten things up if preferred

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made in advance and warmed up when ready to serve, making it convenient for busy days.

→ Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup without gluten.

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this dish?

It's best to thaw frozen chicken fully before cooking to ensure an even texture and flavor throughout.

→ What cheese alternatives work well here?

Cheddar or Monterey Jack can be used if Swiss cheese isn’t available, each adding its own unique flavor.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Cook diced chicken just until no longer pink inside, usually 6-8 minutes, to keep it tender and juicy.

→ What serving suggestions pair well with this dish?

Try crusty or garlic bread for dipping, or a fresh garden salad to balance the creamy richness.