Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Have you ever wondered how to transform a beloved classic dish into a cozy, soul-warming soup? Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is the answer! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese into a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness. According to a recent survey, 75% of home cooks are looking for innovative ways to reinvent traditional meals, and this soup does just that. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make this delicious soup, providing you with all the tips, tricks, and nutritional insights you need to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients List

To make a hearty Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup ham, diced (smoked or honey ham for extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (Gruyère can be used for a gourmet touch)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitution Suggestions

• Chicken: Use turkey for a leaner option.
• Ham: Substitute with cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Cream: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative.
• Cheese: Try cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken and Ham

Add the shredded chicken and diced ham to the pot. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy. This is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Season the Soup

Mix in the Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fiber	1g
Sugars	2g
Sodium	600mg

This soup is a hearty option that provides a good balance of protein and flavor while being relatively low in carbohydrates.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup a bit lighter or cater to specific dietary needs, consider these alternatives:

• Low-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat milk or yogurt instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
• Vegetable Broth: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Increased Veggies: Add chopped spinach or kale for added nutrients and fiber without significantly altering the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• With Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with a warm baguette or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Over Rice or Noodles: Serve the soup over cooked rice or egg noodles for a heartier dish.
• As a Starter: Offer small cups of the soup as an appetizer for a dinner party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

1. Overcooking the Cheese: Adding cheese too quickly or cooking on high heat can cause it to become gritty. Always add it on low heat and stir gently.
2. Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning. The richness of the cream and cheese can mask the need for salt and pepper.
3. Not Letting It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a while helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To ensure your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup stays fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Freezing: While the soup can be frozen, the cream may separate upon thawing. To freeze, omit the cream and add it when reheating.
• Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the soup base (broth, chicken, and ham) ahead of time and add the cream and cheese just before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a delightful twist on a classic dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its creamy texture and savory ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and saves time.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure that your broth and any added seasonings are gluten-free, and you can enjoy this soup worry-free!

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.