This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a cozy treat packed with tender chicken, ham, and cheesy goodness. It’s like your favorite sandwich turned into a warm, creamy bowl!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to sip on something this comforting? I love topping mine with crispy bacon; it adds that extra crunch we all crave! 🥓
The best part? This soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something hearty and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Adds a great crunch and smoky flavor. If you want a healthier option, try turkey bacon or skip it altogether if you prefer a lighter soup.
Ham: Use deli slices or leftover holiday ham. If you’re vegetarian, replace it with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils for a hearty texture.
Swiss Cheese: This gives a creamy, nutty finish. If Swiss isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap for Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and silky. You can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This brings a nice tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or a bit of white wine vinegar can work in a pinch!
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup Without Clumps?
Thickening the soup smoothly is essential for a velvety texture. When you sprinkle flour over the sautéed veggies, make sure to stir it in well. This allows the flour to cook slightly, enhancing flavor without becoming gummy.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps—start with a small amount to ease the flour into the liquid.
- Simmer the soup thoroughly after adding the broth to ensure it thickens nicely.
- If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect weeknight meal that can be ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel, leaving that rich bacon fat in the pot. This fat will add incredible flavor!
2. Sauté the Veggies
Next, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery into the pot. Cook them in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until they soften up. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s nice and fragrant.
3. Add the Flour
Now sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir well to mix everything together. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to take away any raw flour taste. This will also help thicken your soup.
4. Create the Base
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring to ensure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will get everything nice and warm.
5. Combine the Goodies
Add in the cooked chicken, chopped ham, heavy cream, and the Dijon mustard. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, so it thickens and the flavors come together! Yum!
6. Add the Cheese
Now for the cheesy goodness! Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese a bit at a time, mixing until it melts into the soup and becomes creamy. If you’d like a thicker soup, feel free to adjust it with a bit more broth or cream.
7. Season to Taste
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. This is when your soup will really start to shine!
8. Serve It Up!
Serve your soup hot, topped with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!
This hearty soup captures all the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu with tender chicken, smoky ham, and nutty Swiss cheese in a creamy, enjoyable bowl. Perfect for chilly days or a cozy night in!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Soup?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for its nutty flavor, you can easily substitute it with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different taste profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture, as it may thicken upon sitting.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Leftover Chicken?
If you don’t have leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken from the store works great! You can also quickly poach or sauté chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet until cooked through and then shred them for the soup.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or cream if it thickens too much.