Description

Welcome to a delightful journey of flavors with our Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup! This dish seamlessly merges the traditional favorites of Chicken Cordon Bleu—a popular French dish featuring chicken, ham, and cheese—with a comforting and creamy soup that warms the heart. Originating from Switzerland but made famous by the French, Chicken Cordon Bleu is known for its savory taste and beautiful presentation. Our soup brings all those beloved elements together in a comforting bowl that's perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or when you're simply craving something delicious and hearty.

Imagine indulging in a bowl of this creamy pasta-free comfort food, where tender pieces of chicken and bits of salty, smoky ham swim in a velvety soup base adorned with Swiss cheese. The infusion of Dijon mustard adds a subtle zing, enhancing the flavors that swirl with each delightful spoonful. Not only is this dish a fabulous way to warm your belly, but it also brings a touch of nostalgic elegance to your dinner table.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delightful taste but also in its ease of preparation. Within just one hour, you can create a soul-soothing soup that wins over even the most discerning palates. Whether you are a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary adventures, this delectable soup is straightforward and rewarding, filled with simple ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s explore how to prepare this delectable Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth (you can use store-bought or homemade for a richer depth of flavor)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup ham, diced (a smoked variety enhances the flavor)
• 1 1/2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded (or Gruyère for a more robust taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream (substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond milk can be used)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a delightful tang)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, if possible)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional Add-ins:
• 1 cup corn (for sweetness and added texture)
• 1 cup black beans (for an additional source of protein and fiber)

Preparation Method

Begin your culinary adventure by preparing your work area and gathering all the ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts bubbling gently but isn’t turning brown. Once the butter is melted, toss in the diced onion. Sauté this for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is key to developing rich flavors, as the onions soften and become fragrant. As they cook, their natural sweetness emerges and begins to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Once the onions have turned translucent, add the minced garlic to the pot. Garlic adds depth and an aromatic hug to your soup, so cook it for an additional minute while stirring continuously to prevent burning. You will notice the garlic turning golden and releasing its delicious scent—a sure sign it's time to move to the next stage.

Now it’s time to create a roux, a crucial element that will bring both body and richness to your soup. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked onion and garlic, then stir it well. You want to ensure that all the flour is coated with the butter. This should take around a minute as the flour absorbs the fats and starts to form a smooth paste. Cooking it briefly not only combines it nicely but also eliminates any raw flour taste that could dull your delicious soup.

Once your roux is ready, it’s time to incorporate the chicken broth. Gradually whisk the broth into the pot while stirring constantly. This gradual addition helps to avoid lumps in your soup, ensuring that it remains perfectly smooth. As you pour in the broth, enjoy the bubbling sounds that indicate you’re on your way to creating something wonderful!

Next up, let’s add creamy goodness to this dish! Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, allowing the soup to become perfectly velvety. If using a non-dairy milk, consider using one that has a neutral flavor, like almond or oat milk, to avoid overpowering the dish. Stir well to incorporate everything, and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. You'll want to stir occasionally as this helps to blend all the flavors beautifully.

To turn this delightful mixture into Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, it’s time to introduce the stars of our show—shredded chicken and diced ham. Stir these proteins into the pot and let them heat through, absorbing all the delectable flavors. This should only take a few minutes.

Now, let’s talk about the cheese. Sprinkle in the shredded Swiss cheese gradually, stirring continuously until each addition is melted and fully combined into the soup. The cheese will enrich your dish, adding a creamy, decadent texture that’s simply irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some sharp cheddar cheese along with the Swiss for an extra flavor kick!

As all these beautiful ingredients blend together, allow the soup to simmer for about 5 more minutes. This process lets the flavors meld and thickens the soup to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally, watching as the soup transforms into a creamy masterpiece.

Finally, don’t forget to season your soup! Add the teaspoon of Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste your soup before serving—this is the joy of cooking! The mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the savory elements, while a dash of salt elevates the overall flavor profile.

Before serving, consider adding optional ingredients such as corn or black beans. These additions not only contribute delightful textures but also enhance the nutritional value of the soup. If you choose to go this route, simply stir them in during the last few minutes of simmering.

Once you feel satisfied with the seasoning and consistency, it’s time to spoon this soul-warming soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh kick of flavor.

Tips and Conclusion

When it comes to serving your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, consider pairing it with a light side salad or some crusty bread for a wholesome meal. The fresh, zesty flavors of a simple green salad with a vinaigrette will complement the richness of the soup perfectly.

If you’d like to make this soup ahead of time, it stores beautifully! Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will last for up to three days. Reheating is a breeze—just warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through.

Feeling adventurous? You can also turn this recipe into a creamy casserole by pouring it into a baking dish, topping it with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and baking until golden and bubbly.
You’ve just created a comforting bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup that is rich in flavor and brimming with nostalgia. This dish not only warms you up but also fills your heart with the joy of cooking something truly special for yourself or your loved ones. The seasoned chicken, velvety cheese, and savory ham come together in a divine harmony of flavors that you’ll want to enjoy time and again.

We invite you to share this recipe with family and friends and perhaps even discover your own variations. If you are interested in exploring more comforting dishes, check out our other soup recipes, casseroles, or gourmet meal ideas scattered throughout the site. There’s always something new to inspire your culinary adventures!

Keep cooking, experimenting, and discovering delicious recipes with us—each dish you create is a new chapter in your cooking journey! Happy cooking!