Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by the classic French chicken dish. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese creates a luscious and hearty soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The velvety broth, made with a blend of chicken stock and half-and-half, is thickened with cream cheese for an extra layer of richness, while the diced onion and garlic provide a subtle depth of flavor. This soup is a delightful twist on a beloved dish, offering all the flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a warm and comforting bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 white onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth (see note)
• 2 cups half-and-half (see note)
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 cup diced ham

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

1. Create the Roux:

• Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly. Cook the flour mixture for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste, creating a roux that will thicken the soup.

1. Add the Liquids:

• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Once fully incorporated, slowly pour in the half-and-half, whisking to combine. This will create a smooth, creamy base for the soup.

1. Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Swiss Cheese:

• Add the softened cream cheese to the pot, stirring until fully melted and incorporated. Next, add the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring until it melts into the soup, creating a rich and cheesy broth.

1. Add the Chicken and Ham:

• Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and diced ham. Continue to cook over low heat until the chicken and ham are heated through, about 5 minutes.

1. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Chicken Broth: For an extra depth of flavor, use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought variety. If you prefer a richer soup, you can substitute some of the broth with additional half-and-half.
• Half-and-Half: If you want a lighter version of this soup, you can use whole milk in place of half-and-half, though the soup will be less rich and creamy.
• Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the soup to ensure it melts smoothly without curdling.
• Swiss Cheese: For the best flavor, grate your own Swiss cheese rather than using pre-shredded, as it melts better and has a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Swiss cheese for a finishing touch.
• Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a luxurious, indulgent meal that’s sure to warm you up on a cold day. It’s easy to make and brings all the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu into a simple, satisfying dish. Enjoy!