Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Comforting Delight

Are you looking for a warm, hearty dish that combines the goodness of chicken, broccoli, and cheese? Look no further! This chicken broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. Packed with protein, vitamins, and a rich, creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and variations to make this delicious soup your own.

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients

To make this delicious chicken broccoli cheddar soup, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Cheddar Mixture:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch)

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Croutons

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Chicken

4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the shredded chicken, broccoli florets, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch (if using). This will help thicken the soup.
7. Slowly pour the cream mixture into the soup, stirring continuously to combine.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

8. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring until melted and smooth. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

9. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, or croutons if desired.

Cooking Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and easy option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch mixed with water. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or cream.
• Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Storage Advice

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat.

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup FAQ

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk, but the soup will be less creamy. Consider adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it.

What can I serve with chicken broccoli cheddar soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a side of garlic bread.

Conclusion

This chicken broccoli cheddar soup is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your results with us! What variations did you try? Let us know in the comments below!