Save to Pinterest Warm up with a bowl of this creamy, comforting Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and melted sharp cheddar, this soup is the ultimate meal for chilly days, offering a perfect balance of protein and vitamins in every spoonful.
Save to Pinterest This American classic is a staple for a reason. By combining simple ingredients like milk, chicken broth, and sharp cheddar, you create a velvety base that perfectly complements the earthiness of the broccoli and the savory flavor of the chicken breast.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 2
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Step 3
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Step 4
- Add the broccoli, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Step 5
- Stir in the cooked chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 7
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an even smoother texture, you can blend half of the soup before adding the cheese and chicken. Using a rotisserie chicken is a great convenience tip to speed up the cooking process. Please note that this recipe contains milk and wheat, though gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute cauliflower for broccoli if you prefer a different flavor profile, or add diced potatoes to the simmering broth for extra heartiness. For those on a gluten-free diet, ensure you use a certified gluten-free flour blend.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this soup piping hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a light green salad. Each serving provides approximately 370 calories and 31g of protein, making it a satisfying and complete lunch or dinner option.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this homemade Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup as a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Its creamy consistency and rich, cheesy taste make it a perennial favorite for any home cook.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually improves after resting in the refrigerator overnight. The flavors have time to meld together, creating a more robust taste. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore consistency.
- → Can I freeze chicken broccoli cheddar soup?
Yes, though the texture may change slightly. For best results, freeze before adding the cheese. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat on the stove, then stir in the cheese at the end. This prevents the dairy from separating during freezing and thawing.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked chicken breast works beautifully, whether freshly cooked or leftover. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut that adds extra flavor. You can also use thigh meat for a richer taste. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it during the final simmering stage.
- → How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation for those with dietary restrictions.
- → Why did my soup curdle?
Curdling occurs when high heat causes the dairy proteins to separate. Always remove the pot from heat before adding cheese, and stir gradually rather than dumping it all at once. Using room-temperature milk and freshly shredded cheese (not pre-shredded with anti-caking agents) also helps prevent this issue.