Broccoli Cheese Soup And Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you up in a warm, comforting embrace, look no further than Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy goodness and the earthy flavors of fresh vegetables and protein-packed chicken. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal, yet simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the whole family.

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. You can adjust it to suit your tastes, swap out ingredients, and even make it lighter or richer depending on your mood. But no matter how you make it, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this scrumptious dish.

Broccoli Cheese Soup And Chicken Recipe

This soup is a combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, velvety cheese broth. With just the right amount of seasonings to enhance the flavors, it’s like the perfect cozy dinner on a chilly evening. The broth is luxuriously creamy, thanks to a blend of cheese, butter, and cream, yet it maintains a balance with the freshness of the broccoli and the savory taste of the chicken.

What You’ll Need

• Chicken: You can use cooked chicken breast, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even leftover chicken from a previous meal.
• Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, both work well in this recipe.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice for its bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like mozzarella or gouda.
• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base of the soup, providing a savory foundation.
• Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half gives the soup that luxurious, smooth texture.
• Butter & Flour: These ingredients help thicken the soup, creating a rich and velvety base.
• Seasonings: A touch of garlic, onion, salt, and pepper to build the flavor.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for the recipe, keeping in mind that you can always adjust portions based on personal preference.

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Seasonings & Extras

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor depth)

Cooking Instructions

The cooking process for this soup is straightforward and doesn’t take much time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this creamy and delicious soup.

1. Prepare the Broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, chop it into small florets. For frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the pot. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken (if not pre-cooked): In a large pot, cook your chicken breasts over medium heat until they’re no longer pink in the center. You can season the chicken with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and soft (about 3-4 minutes). Then add the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to form a roux (this will help thicken the soup).
4. Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, and bring the soup back to a simmer. Taste the soup at this point, and add more salt or pepper if needed.
6. Incorporate the Chicken & Broccoli: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the soup. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is heated through.
7. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the shredded cheese until it’s fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. Add red pepper flakes, thyme, or other seasonings, if desired.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Understanding how each ingredient contributes to the dish can help you make thoughtful adjustments to suit your preferences.

• Chicken: Chicken not only adds a good source of lean protein but also enriches the soup with a savory, meaty flavor. Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, and the smoky flavor can add a delicious twist.
• Broccoli: This vegetable provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition. It also offers a mild, slightly earthy taste that balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a tangy, bold flavor that cuts through the creamy texture, preventing the soup from feeling too heavy. Other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can be used to alter the flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the soup its rich, velvety texture. You can substitute with milk for a lighter version, but the creamy consistency will be compromised.
• Flour & Butter (Roux): These ingredients work together to create the base for the soup, thickening the broth without making it too heavy. It’s a classic method for many creamy soups.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: If you’re using fresh broccoli, make sure you don’t overcook it. You want it tender but still with a bit of bite, so it doesn’t become mushy when added to the soup.
• Shred Your Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may seem like a time-saver, but it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the soup. Grate your own cheese for a creamier result.
• Use a Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, a rotisserie chicken works wonders. It’s already cooked, and the skin adds extra flavor when incorporated into the soup.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you like a thicker soup, add a little more flour when making the roux. For a thinner soup, you can dilute the broth with extra chicken or vegetable stock.
• Simmer Gently: Once the cheese is added, keep the heat low to avoid separating the cheese or making the soup greasy.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of Broccoli Cheese Soup and Chicken is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to keep it exciting:

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper for a spicy version. The heat pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese base.
• Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly take, substitute the flour with xanthan gum or another low-carb thickener. You can also skip the potatoes and add more cauliflower or extra broccoli.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Swap the Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, try experimenting with other cheeses such as Gruyère for a nuttier flavor or Parmesan for a sharp, tangy twist.
• Make It a Crockpot Meal: If you’re in the mood for an easy, hands-off meal, throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6 hours and enjoy a creamy, perfectly cooked soup at the end of the day.

Final Words

Broccoli Cheese Soup and Chicken is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s comforting, filling, and customizable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, it’s a guaranteed winner. It’s hearty enough to be the main event for dinner, and it pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread or a simple side salad.