Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu is a beloved dish known for its tender chicken stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked to golden perfection. But what if you could capture all those flavors in a warm, creamy soup? This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup transforms that classic dish into a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for cold days or when you crave comfort food. Let’s dive into this recipe that pairs the richness of cheese, the smokiness of ham, and the savory flavors of chicken into one bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Croutons
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Ensure your chicken is pre-cooked (either roasted or rotisserie-style works well).
- Dice the ham into small, bite-sized pieces and shred or cube the chicken.
- Grate the Swiss cheese and have it ready for a smooth addition later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Create a Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a light roux. This will help thicken the soup later.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Incorporate Main Ingredients
- Add the cooked chicken and ham to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Season with Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until fully melted and the soup has a creamy texture. Be patient to prevent clumping.
Step 7: Simmer and Serve
- Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, croutons, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Size: This recipe yields about 4-6 servings, ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping.
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain a creamy consistency.
Helpful Notes
- Dairy Adjustments: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half. However, note that the soup may be less rich.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Thickening Tip: If the soup is too thin, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water to create a slurry and stir it in, cooking until it thickens.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Secret: Chef Ina Garten suggests adding a dash of nutmeg to creamy soups to enhance their depth of flavor. Try adding a pinch when you incorporate the cheese.
- Avoid Curdling: Chef Gordon Ramsay advises tempering the cream by warming it slightly before adding to a hot soup to prevent it from curdling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, while Swiss cheese is traditional for Chicken Cordon Bleu, you can substitute Gruyère or a mix of Swiss and mozzarella for an extra melty texture.
2. What can I serve with this soup? Serve with crusty bread or a side salad to add texture and balance the creaminess.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Soups with dairy don’t freeze as well as others; the texture may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze, do so before adding the cream and cheese, and incorporate those ingredients when reheating.
4. How can I make this soup more filling? Add cooked rice or small pasta like orzo to make it heartier.
5. What type of chicken works best? Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect as it’s already seasoned and moist, adding more depth to the soup.
6. Is Dijon mustard necessary? Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and enhances the cheese’s flavor profile. If you don’t have it, you can use regular mustard or omit it.
7. Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Peas or small broccoli florets can add color and nutrition.
8. What’s the best way to shred chicken? Use two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for easy shredding.
9. How do I keep the cheese from clumping? Make sure to stir the cheese in slowly over low heat and keep the liquid hot but not boiling.
10. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours, adding the cheese in the last 30 minutes and stirring well.
Enjoy crafting this creamy, rich Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup—a cozy dish perfect for any season.