Name: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Substitute with butter for a richer flavor); 1 medium Onion (Use shallots or leeks if preferred); 2 medium Carrots (Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables if in a hurry); 2 stalks Celery (Omit if not available); 1 cup Cremini Mushrooms (Can be replaced with button mushrooms); 2 cloves Garlic (Use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable); ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour (Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use milk or evaporated milk for a lighter version); ½ cup Dry White Wine (Omit or replace with additional broth); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Fresh thyme can be used; double the amount); ½ teaspoon Dried Rosemary (Optional if not preferred); 1 pinch Nutmeg (Skip if desired); to taste Salt (Essential seasoning); to taste Pepper (Essential seasoning); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Substitute with rotisserie chicken for ease); 1 cup Sliced Cooked Ham (Omit for a vegetarian soup); 1-2 cups Swiss Cheese (Gruyère or Fontina can be great substitutes); 2 tablespoons Butter (Use oil as an alternative); 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley (Substitute with chives or omit if not available)

As I stirred a pot of simmering goodness the other day, the delightful aroma of my Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to the heart of a cozy bistro. Who knew that such a beloved classic could be transformed into a comforting soup, loaded with tender chicken, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese? This easy-to-make recipe not only brings that classic Cordon Bleu flavor to life, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, fitting perfectly into even the busiest weeknight. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a chilly evening or a hearty dish to share with family, this soup delivers both comfort and satisfaction. Can you imagine curling up with a bowl of this creamy delight? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Comfort Food: This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, combining familiar flavors into a creamy delight.
Quick & Easy: In just one pot, you’ll have a hearty soup ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving something warm.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its rich and savory profile makes it a family favorite, guaranteed to impress even picky eaters.
Versatile Options: Feel free to adapt the recipe with veggies or even different cheeses, making it a flexible dish for any palate.
Perfect Pairing: Serve it with a crusty baguette or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds fat for cooking vegetables; substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
• Onion – Provides aromatic base; use shallots or leeks if preferred.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with frozen mixed vegetables if in a hurry.
• Celery – Contributes crunch and flavor; omit if not available.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Enhances umami flavor; can be replaced with button mushrooms.
• Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickener; use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth – Provides flavorful base liquid; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream – Creates richness in the broth; use milk or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
• Dry White Wine – Adds acidity and depth; omit or replace with additional broth.
• Dried Thyme – Imparts herbal notes; fresh thyme can be used; double the amount.
• Dried Rosemary – Offers earthy flavor; optional if not preferred.
• Nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity to the soup; skip if desired.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust to taste.

For the Proteins
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; substitute with rotisserie chicken for ease.
• Sliced Cooked Ham – Provides the classic Cordon Bleu flavor; omit for a vegetarian soup.

For the Creaminess
• Swiss Cheese – Melts into the soup for creaminess; Gruyère or Fontina can be great substitutes.
• Butter – Adds richness for sautéing chicken; use oil as an alternative.

For Garnish
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Used for garnish and fresh flavor; substitute with chives or omit if not available.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that will fill your home with warmth and comfort!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This flavorful base will set the stage for your delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms and Garlic
Next, stir in 1 cup of sliced cremini mushrooms and 2 minced garlic cloves into the pot. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and tender. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavors to come in your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.

Step 3: Thicken the Base
Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well for about 1 minute to eliminate lumps and ensure the flour is fully incorporated. This step helps thicken the soup, creating that creamy texture you love in a comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. If using, add ½ cup of dry white wine for depth. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary, a pinch of nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 5: Brown the Chicken
While the soup simmers, heat another skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a bit, and then dice it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Warm the Ham
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of sliced cooked ham to warm it up, which will infuse your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup with even more savory flavor. Cook for around 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through but not crispy.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Ham
Add the diced chicken and warmed ham back into the pot with the soup base. Stir gently to combine and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is coming together nicely!

Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Finally, sprinkle in 1-2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese and stir until melted and smooth, creating a luxurious, creamy finish to the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced and seasoned for your palate.

Step 9: Serve the Soup
Ladle the warm Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, perhaps alongside crusty bread or a simple salad, to complete a cozy meal that’s sure to please.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave room for expansion!

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess after freezing.

Thawing: To thaw, transfer the container to the fridge the night before or use the microwave’s defrost setting to speed up the process.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Variations

Feel free to explore delightful twists to make this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup fit your taste perfectly!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken and ham with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty veggie soup. It’s a beautiful way to keep the comfort while embracing plant-based goodness!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to ignite the heat and adventure in your soup. Spice lovers will relish the extra warmth it brings to every spoonful.
Cheesy Variations: Use a blend of different cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese to create unique flavor profiles. The possibilities are endless, and each addition brings its personality to the pot.
Nutrient Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and a pop of color. Not only does it enhance the dish, but it also makes your soup even more nourishing.
Broth Swap: For a lighter soup, replace chicken broth with a homemade vegetable broth that carries fresh vegetables and herbs. This twist provides a subtle yet satisfying depth.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter texture, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free variation. You’ll still enjoy that creamy mouthfeel but with a different twist!
Herb Infusions: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of thyme for a refreshing change. This variation can uplift the soup’s flavor profile into a delightful garden of tastes.

For even more tantalizing recipes, consider checking out Bokchoy Chicken Soup or treat your family to Chicken Potato Casserole! Each option offers a chance to explore comforting flavors your loved ones will adore.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish with minimal fuss during busy weeknights. You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance; just let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. For best quality, wait to add the chicken and cheese until ready to serve, preventing the cheese from becoming grainy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup base on the stovetop over medium heat, add the browned chicken and Swiss cheese, and stir until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that feels fresh and just as comforting!

Expert Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Stir Frequently: To prevent the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup from sticking, make sure to stir it often while simmering.

Season at the End: Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking; this enhances the flavors beautifully.

Check Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half and half or more chicken broth for richness without extra fat.

Use Fresh Herbs Wisely: If using fresh thyme or herbs, add them towards the end of the cooking process for a more vibrant flavor.

Thicken Smoothly: When adding flour, stir continuously for a minute to avoid any lumps in your delicious soup.

What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Imagine curling up with a warm bowl of creamy soup and complementing it with delightful sides that enhance its comforting flavors.

Crusty Baguette: This is a classic pairing! Dunking a buttery slice into the rich soup makes each bite even more satisfying.
Simple Side Salad: A crisp salad with greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, refreshing the palate.
Garlic Bread: The crunchy, garlicky goodness offers a perfect contrast to the creamy texture, making every spoonful delightful.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, caramelized veggies add depth, adding wholesome complements to the savory profile of the soup.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds a bright and fresh element that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
Cheese-Stuffed Peppers: These delightful bites bring extra cheesiness that complements the Swiss cheese in the soup, bound to impress.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the flavors in the soup, with crisp acidity making each sip refreshing.

Mix and match these suggestions for a balanced meal that brings warmth and comfort to your dining experience!

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they’re tender and cook quickly. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic substitute—just shred it and toss it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to cool the soup completely before transferring to prevent condensation and keep it fresh!

Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
Yes, you can! Simply pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply stir in additional chicken broth or a little bit of water to achieve your desired consistency. Heat gently while stirring to integrate the liquid smoothly.

What are some good substitutes for heavy cream in this soup?
I recommend using half and half or even evaporated milk for a lighter, yet still creamy, alternative. If you’re looking to stay lower in fat, more chicken broth can also work well—just ensure you adjust the seasonings accordingly!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with dietary restrictions, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is easily adaptable! You can omit the ham for a lighter vegetarian version or substitute with vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. If you have gluten allergies, opt for cornstarch instead of flour to thicken your soup.