Craving the flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu but looking for a cozy twist? Look no further than our Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup recipe! This delightful soup combines tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy cheeses in a comforting broth that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly nights or lazy weekends, this soup is a delightful blend of elegance and comfort. Whether you’re a soup aficionado or simply seeking a hearty meal to please the whole family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this delectable Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s address some common questions about Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw chicken tenders? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken, to save time. Simply cube the cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time and freeze it? A: While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, omit the cream and cheese and add them when reheating the soup for best results.
Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option? A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version of the soup. Keep in mind that the consistency and richness of the soup may vary slightly.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and prepare to create a delicious pot of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken tenders (or 1 large chicken breast), cubed small (about 1 cup)
- 1/2-3/4 cup small cubed ham pieces
- 4 small-medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups worth)
- 1/2 small onion, chopped (about 1/3 cup)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2-3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2.5-3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions:
1. Sauté Chicken and Ham
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and ham pieces, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the ham is slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Stir in the chopped onion and cubed potatoes, and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, and mix well to combine.
3. Make Roux
- Sprinkle flour over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and stir until well coated. Cook for 2-3 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
4. Add Cream and Broth
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add Cheese
- Once the soup has thickened, stir in the shredded Gruyère and Swiss cheeses until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth before adding the cheese.
Keto Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this soup, omit the flour and use xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickener to achieve the desired consistency. Use heavy cream and low-carb cheese options to keep the soup keto-friendly.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above, and consider using cauliflower florets instead of potatoes to reduce the carb content of the soup.
In conclusion, Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory chicken and ham, and gooey cheese, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting weeknight dinner or as a cozy meal for guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the delicious flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in soup form!
