Chicken Broccoli Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Cream of Chicken Soup is the kind of dish that brings comfort to your soul. Whether you’re seeking a warm, creamy bowl of satisfaction on a chilly evening or looking for a dish that will impress at a family gathering, this soup has all the right components. It’s rich, hearty, and undeniably easy to make. The velvety texture of the soup pairs beautifully with tender chunks of chicken and the earthy flavor of broccoli. With the addition of cream of chicken soup, you get a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, with a perfect balance of protein and vegetables, all packed into a creamy, flavorful broth.

In this article, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about making this delightful soup-from the ingredients you’ll need, how to cook it, expert tips to perfect it, and even some creative variations to try! By the end, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to whip up a batch that will quickly become a household favorite.

Chicken Broccoli Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe

Now that you know what makes this dish so comforting, let’s dive into the recipe! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the best Chicken Broccoli Cream of Chicken Soup you’ve ever tasted. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, we’re keeping it simple yet flavorful, with a few key ingredients that come together beautifully:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (or thighs) – About 1 lb.

  Chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish due to their lean protein content, but you can also use thighs for a slightly juicier, richer flavor.

• Fresh Broccoli Florets – 2 cups

  Fresh broccoli adds color, texture, and a nutritional punch. You can also use frozen broccoli if that’s what you have on hand.

• Cream of Chicken Soup – 1 can (about 10.5 oz)

  The star of the soup-this canned option makes the base creamy and rich without requiring you to start from scratch. It’s a time-saver and gives the soup that signature comfort food taste.

• Chicken Broth – 2 cups

  This gives the soup its liquid base, and you can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. Alternatively, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

• Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup

  Heavy cream makes the soup extra rich and velvety. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk, but the result won’t be as creamy.

• Butter – 2 tbsp

  Butter adds a subtle richness that enhances the flavor of the soup.

• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

  A small but mighty ingredient that elevates the overall flavor profile.

• Onion – 1 small, chopped

  A touch of onion brings a sweet and savory undertone to the soup. Use yellow onion for a milder flavor.

• Salt & Pepper – To taste

  Seasoning is key! Don’t forget to taste along the way and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

• Optional Garnishes

  Fresh parsley, grated cheese, or croutons for some added texture and color.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This is a straightforward recipe, but the key is in the technique. Here’s how to make your Chicken Broccoli Cream of Chicken Soup from start to finish:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. This will help it cook evenly and quickly.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps release all those delicious flavors that will permeate the entire soup.

3. Cook The Chicken

   • Add the chicken to the pot. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes). This gives the chicken a nice sear and locks in the juices.

4. Add Broccoli And Broth

   • Once the chicken is browned, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir everything together, and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

5. Add The Cream Of Chicken Soup And Cream

   • Stir in the can of cream of chicken soup and the heavy cream. You’ll notice the soup starts to thicken and turn creamy right away. Stir everything together to ensure it’s well combined. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder if you’d like. If you want a thinner consistency, you can add a bit more broth or water.

7. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with your choice of toppings. Crushed crackers, grated cheese, or fresh parsley are great options.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Chicken: Besides being the main protein source, chicken adds a subtle savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup. It’s also versatile and can be swapped for other proteins, such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian take.
• Broccoli: This vegetable isn’t just a great source of fiber and vitamins; it adds a bit of crunch and freshness to the otherwise creamy texture of the soup. The slight bitterness of broccoli contrasts well with the richness of the cream.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This canned soup is not just a shortcut, it brings a lot of flavor to the table. It contains a blend of chicken stock, cream, and seasonings that create a deep, satisfying flavor. It’s the shortcut you need without compromising the dish’s soul-satisfying nature.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream transforms the soup from good to great. Its richness smooths out the flavors and makes every bite feel luxurious.
• Broth: Chicken broth gives the soup a lighter, more balanced texture compared to using just cream. It’s also the ingredient that ties everything together, giving the soup its base flavor.

Expert Tips

1. Use Fresh Chicken: While rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can be used in a pinch, fresh chicken breast gives the soup the best texture and flavor.
2. Broccoli Prep: If you want the broccoli to remain crisp-tender, don’t overcook it. Add it in towards the end of cooking and only simmer it until it’s bright green and tender but still has a little bite.
3. Stir Occasionally: Since the cream can sometimes cause the soup to stick to the bottom, be sure to stir it every few minutes while it simmers.
4. Leftovers: This soup stores well! Make a batch and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
5. Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Recipe Variations

While this Chicken Broccoli Cream of Chicken Soup is already a comforting classic, there’s plenty of room for customization:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or a handful of Parmesan for extra richness and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
• Swap the Protein: Use turkey or ham for a variation on the traditional chicken. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or even plant-based ’chicken’ strips.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut milk in place of heavy cream and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Swap the chicken with a plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu.
• Add More Veggies: Carrots, celery, or even cauliflower can be added to bulk up the soup with more nutritious veggies.

Final Words

This Chicken Broccoli Cream of Chicken Soup is simple, satisfying, and absolutely perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a family gathering, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please everyone. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and healthy broccoli create a harmonious balance of flavors that’s both filling and nourishing.