On a brisk evening when the leaves dance in the wind, I crave something cozy and fulfilling that warms not just the body but the soul. That’s when I discovered the perfect bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup—a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Imagine tender chicken and savory ham nestled in a creamy, cheesy broth, topped with the satisfying crunch of homemade croutons.
This soup is my go-to for those evenings when fast food just won’t cut it, and I’m yearning for the comfort of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or are simply looking to indulge in something delicious, this recipe promises all the flavors of chicken cordon bleu, served in a bowl ready to embrace you. With each spoonful, you’ll feel the warmth wrap around you like a favorite blanket. Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Why Is Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup So Cozy?
Comforting Warmth: This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup wraps you in a delicious embrace, perfect for any chilly evening.
Delicious Creaminess: The rich, cheesy broth is a delightful upgrade from traditional soups, bursting with layers of flavor.
Savory Goodness: Tender pieces of chicken and savory ham come together to create a symphony of taste in every bowl.
Crispy Croutons: Topped with homemade croutons, each bite combines smoothness with delightful crunch, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Quick and Simple: This easy recipe saves time, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your evening with loved ones.
Indulge in the comforting aspects of this recipe and let every spoonful whisk you away to your happy place!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons to add richness and help with cooking; can be substituted with canola or vegetable oil.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast – 1 piece is your main protein, providing tenderness and flavor; consider using rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons adds creaminess and depth to the soup.
- Diced Ham – 8 ounces brings a savory, salty flavor that complements the chicken; look for pre-packaged diced ham in the deli.
- Yellow Onion – 1 cup, finely chopped for sweetness and aromatics; shallots can work in a pinch for a milder flavor.
- Minced Garlic – 2 tablespoons offers a robust taste; garlic powder is a good alternative if short on fresh garlic.
- Dry White Wine – 2 tablespoons enhances the soup’s flavor depth; choose a wine you enjoy drinking, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- All-Purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons thickens the base; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
- Chicken Stock – 32 ounces forms the core of the soup, with low-sodium being a great option to control saltiness.
- Whole Milk – 1 cup adds a creamy texture; use half-and-half for a richer version if desired.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Swiss Cheese – 4 ounces, grated provides a mild, nutty flavor, but Gruyere is a perfect substitute for stronger taste.
- Gruyere Cheese – 4 ounces, grated adds depth; can be replaced with more Swiss if that’s what you have on hand.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped brings a pop of color and freshness to your dish; sprinkle on just before serving.
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Grated Gruyere cheese to elevate the cheesy experience with each serving.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to enjoying a cozy bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that’s sure to be a hit at your table!
How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
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Make Croutons: Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and oregano, then toss in cubed bread to coat. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly toasted and crispy.
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Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness, season it with salt, and cook until browned and cooked through on both sides, about 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
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Deglaze and Thicken: Pour in white wine and let it bubble for 1 minute to deglaze the pan. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat. Gradually add the chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps, allowing it to thicken.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the diced chicken back into the soup and stir in the milk and both grated cheeses until melted and creamy. Toss in the chopped parsley and mix well to combine.
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Serve: Ladle your cozy soup into bowls, generously topping each with the homemade croutons and your choice of garnishes before enjoying!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of grated Gruyere cheese for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup prep tips are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the onion, mince the garlic, and even cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store these prepped ingredients in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. For the soup, you can combine all the ingredients (except for the cheese and milk) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, just heat everything in a pot, stir in the milk and cheeses until melted, and serve with those delicious homemade croutons. This make-ahead strategy means you can savor each spoonful of goodness with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!
Expert Tips for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
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Crouton Mastery: Ensure your croutons are golden brown and crispy, as they enhance the soup’s texture; let them cool slightly before serving for optimal crunch.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste the soup before serving; adjust seasoning gradually, especially if using store-bought chicken stock that may be salty, to keep the flavor harmonious.
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Choose Quality Wine: Opt for a dry white wine you love to drink, as this can elevate the flavors in the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, ensuring it tastes as delightful as possible.
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Perfect Cheese Melting: When adding cheese, stir constantly to achieve a smooth, creamy finish; avoid high heat which can cause the cheese to clump.
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Meal Prep Friendly: Consider doubling the recipe for leftovers; Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup can be stored for up to 5 days in the fridge, making it a great weeknight option!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if the soup thickens.
Freezer: Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat. Stir frequently to maintain creaminess.
Portioning: Consider dividing the soup into individual servings before freezing; this allows for easy meal prep and on-the-go lunches.
What to Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
To create a delightful dining experience, consider sides that enhance the comforting flavors of this creamy soup.
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Homemade Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness perfectly pairs with the soup, making it an irresistible duo. Plus, who can resist dipping warm bread into creamy broth?
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Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy greens and a light vinaigrette offsets the richness of the soup, adding a nice balance to your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized veggies add depth to your dinner and a range of colors to your plate, enriching the dining experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft and buttery, these mashed potatoes complement the soup’s texture, making every bite feel hearty and comforting.
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Cheesy Biscuit Muffins: Light and fluffy, these muffins are perfect for sopping up the leftover soup. Their cheesy flavor aligns beautifully with the dish.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of crisp white wine elevates the meal, enhancing the cheese and ham flavors while providing a lovely contrast to the creamy soup.
With these pairings, you’ll transform a warm bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup into a beautifully rounded meal, perfect for cozy evenings with loved ones!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup with these delightful alternatives!
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Turkey Option: Substitute turkey for chicken after Thanksgiving. This is a wonderful way to use up leftover turkey, and it feeds the soul on chilly nights.
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Wine-Free Version: Skip the white wine and replace it with a splash of lemon juice for brightness or extra chicken stock to retain depth while keeping it alcohol-free.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheese like sharp cheddar for a bold kick or creamy havarti for a smooth finish. Each offers its unique flavor profile that can transform your soup.
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring some heat to your bowl. The warmth will add another layer of comfort during the colder months.
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Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, use plant-based chicken alternatives and vegetable stock. You’ll still achieve that creamy and comforting texture without the meat.
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Herb Infusion: Elevate your soup by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil. This simple addition will breathe life into the flavors, creating a dish that feels like a home-cooked hug.
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Grain Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa or orzo to add heartiness and texture. This is a clever way to make your soup more filling while enjoying additional nutrition.
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Classic Crouton Upgrade: Try flavoring your croutons with garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor punch in each crunchy bite. It gives you that delightful crunch and an explosion of taste!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for the best tenderness and flavor. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut!
How should I store leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is too thick after cooling, simply add a bit of warm chicken stock or milk while reheating, stirring until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
If you’re serving this soup to guests, be aware of allergies to dairy, gluten, or specific meats like ham. You can easily adjust the recipe; use gluten-free flour and substitute the ham with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter, allergy-friendly version.
How can I make the croutons extra crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy croutons, ensure you toss the bread cubes thoroughly in olive oil and seasonings before baking at a high temperature (400°F) for about 10 minutes. Let them cool slightly after baking to maintain their crunch!
Cozy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup with Crispy Croutons Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and oregano, then toss in cubed bread to coat. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until lightly toasted and crispy.
- Heat olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness, season it with salt, and cook until browned and cooked through on both sides, about 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the diced ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Pour in white wine and let it bubble for 1 minute to deglaze the pan. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat. Gradually add the chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps, allowing it to thicken.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Add the diced chicken back into the soup and stir in the milk and both grated cheeses until melted and creamy. Toss in the chopped parsley and mix well to combine.
- Ladle your cozy soup into bowls, generously topping each with the homemade croutons and your choice of garnishes before enjoying!