Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup takes all the comforting flavors of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu-crispy breaded chicken, salty ham, and melted cheese-and transforms them into a creamy, hearty soup that is perfect for any time of the year. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. You can enjoy the flavors of this beloved dish without the hassle of breading and frying chicken. This soup is ideal for cozy dinners or even as a starter for a larger meal, making it a great choice for gatherings or even a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying, thanks to the creamy base and the savory combination of chicken, ham, and cheese.

Let’s dive in! Whether you’re a fan of the classic dish or you’re looking to shake up your soup rotation, this Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is sure to be a hit. Ready to get cooking? Let’s start with the recipe.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe

This soup is a unique and exciting twist on the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu. It’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of this beloved dish with far less effort. In just under an hour, you can have a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness that’s sure to please everyone around the table.

Ingredients Needed

For the soup itself:

• 2 tablespoons of butter: This will be your base for sautéing the veggies and adding richness to the soup.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: The onion brings a sweet and savory undertone, giving the soup depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic adds that irresistible savory punch that’s essential in this kind of dish.
• 4 cups of chicken broth: This will form the foundation of your soup, keeping it light but savory. You can use low-sodium if you prefer.
• 1 ½ cups of cooked chicken (diced): Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here for convenience, or you can cook and dice your own.
• 1 ½ cups of diced ham: Opt for a nice, thick cut of ham that can stand up to the creamy base.
• 2 cups of heavy cream: This will create that creamy texture, making each spoonful velvety and indulgent.
• 1 ½ cups of shredded Swiss cheese: The melty, nutty goodness of Swiss cheese is a signature of Chicken Cordon Bleu, and it brings that same flavor to the soup.
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella helps with the gooey, melty texture we love in a good cheese soup.
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard: For a tangy kick that’s true to the flavor profile of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu.
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme: Fresh herbs brighten up the richness of the soup and add an aromatic element that makes the flavors pop.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential to bring the flavors together.

For garnish:

• Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that contrasts with the creamy base.

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
   • Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This will infuse the butter with that delicious garlicky aroma.

2. Create The Soup Base

   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. The cream will add the velvety smoothness, and the mustard will give the soup that tangy zip that ties the flavors to the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu.

3. Add The Proteins And Cheese

   • Add in the diced chicken and ham, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the proteins to heat through.
   • Gradually add in the shredded Swiss and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy and smooth texture.

4. Season And Simmer

   • Sprinkle in the fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, giving it time for the flavors to meld together.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

5. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and a fresh, herby flavor.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Broth vs. Chicken Stock: Broth tends to be lighter in flavor than stock, so it’s the perfect base for a creamy soup. Stock, on the other hand, is thicker and more gelatinous due to the collagen in bones. If you want a more substantial base, feel free to substitute stock.
• Swiss Cheese: The nutty, slightly tangy flavor of Swiss cheese is what makes Chicken Cordon Bleu so distinctive. It melts beautifully, creating a smooth, luscious soup base. If you want a stronger flavor, consider adding Gruyère instead of or in addition to Swiss.
• Ham: Use a high-quality ham-preferably one that is thickly sliced and not overly salty. A good ham provides that savory, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.

Expert Tips

• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time! The flavors only get better after sitting for a few hours. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed to loosen it up.
• Texture Tips: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese. Just be careful not to blend it too much-you want a little texture to still be there.
• Cheese Variations: While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A sharp cheddar would add an extra layer of depth and flavor. Just make sure whatever cheese you use melts well.
• Adjust Consistency: If you like your soup a little thicker, reduce the amount of broth. If you prefer a lighter consistency, increase the broth or add a splash of milk.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smokiness and crunch. Bacon complements the ham and chicken wonderfully.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken and ham for mushrooms and more veggies. You could also add some vegetarian ’ham’ slices or smoked tofu for a plant-based alternative.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy twist. You could also stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce for an extra punch.
• Slow Cooker Version: After sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything into a slow cooker, adding the broth, chicken, ham, and cream. Let it cook on low for 4 hours, adding the cheese in the last 30 minutes.

Final Words

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup combines all the things we love about the classic dish-cheese, chicken, ham, and a smooth, comforting texture-into one easy-to-make recipe that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or serving it up for guests, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can customize it in so many ways to suit your tastes, and the result is always mouthwatering.