Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

Craving a comforting and flavorful meal? Dive into the creamy goodness of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. This hearty soup combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, transforming them into a delicious, warming bowl of comfort. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow this recipe to create a rich and satisfying Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.

Ingredients List

Soup Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small head cauliflower, coarsely chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 1 cup finely cubed fully cooked ham
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Large Pot: For cooking the soup.
2. Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the cauliflower, onion, and ham.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup.
5. Whisk: To mix the flour into the soup base smoothly.
6. Cheese Grater: For shredding the Swiss cheese.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup-making experience.

Preparing the Base

Cooking the Vegetables

1. Heat the Butter and Olive Oil:
   In a large pot, melt the butter and add the olive oil over medium heat. This combination gives a rich flavor and helps to cook the vegetables evenly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the chopped cauliflower and onion to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
3. Add Garlic:
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Roux

1. Add the Flour:
   Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Incorporate the Broth:
   Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken.

Adding the Main Ingredients

Now that the base of the soup is prepared, it’s time to add the main ingredients that give Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup its distinctive flavor.

Incorporating the Chicken and Ham

1. Add the Chicken:
   Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. This can be leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
2. Add the Ham:
   Add 1 cup of finely cubed fully cooked ham to the pot. The ham adds a salty, savory depth to the soup.
3. Stir and Combine:
   Mix the chicken and ham thoroughly with the vegetable and broth mixture, ensuring even distribution.

Adding the Cream and Mustard

1. Pour in the Half-and-Half:
   Gradually add 2 cups of half-and-half cream, stirring constantly to keep the soup smooth and creamy. Half-and-half provides a rich and creamy texture without being overly heavy.
2. Mix in the Mustard:
   Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. This adds a tangy and slightly sharp flavor that complements the creaminess of the soup.
3. Season to Taste:
   Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Stir well and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Simmering the Soup

1. Bring to a Simmer:
   Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low.
2. Cook for 15-20 Minutes:
   Let the soup simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

Adding the Cheese and Final Touches

The final step in preparing your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is adding the shredded Swiss cheese, which gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor.

Melting the Cheese

1. Add the Swiss Cheese:
   Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese. Add a little at a time, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. This helps to prevent clumping and ensures a smooth texture.
2. Stir Constantly:
   Continue to stir the soup until all the cheese has melted and is fully incorporated into the soup. The soup should be creamy and slightly thickened.

Final Adjustments

1. Check the Consistency:
   If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or half-and-half to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a touch more Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

Serving the Soup

1. Garnish:
   Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of extra shredded Swiss cheese or a few chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve Immediately:
   Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the creamy, savory flavors. This soup pairs well with a crusty baguette or a fresh green salad.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Proper Storage

To keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

1. Cool the Soup:
   Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps to prevent condensation, which can dilute the soup.
2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Transfer the cooled soup to airtight containers. This helps to maintain freshness and prevent the soup from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
3. Refrigeration:
   Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing the Soup

If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it:

1. Portion the Soup:
   Divide the soup into individual portions. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
2. Freezer-Safe Containers:
   Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the soup freezes.
3. Label and Freeze:
   Label the containers or bags with the date and contents. Store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating the Soup

To enjoy your Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup again, follow these reheating instructions:

1. Thaw the Soup:
   If frozen, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Reheat on the Stovetop:
   Transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot and steaming. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause the cream to separate.
3. Reheat in the Microwave:
   Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals until hot.

Tips for Freshness

• Avoid Overheating: Reheating the soup gently helps to maintain its creamy texture and prevents the cheese from becoming grainy.
• Add Fresh Garnishes: Adding fresh garnishes like chopped herbs or a sprinkle of cheese just before serving can refresh the flavor and presentation of the reheated soup.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy, satisfying bowl of soup. By following this recipe, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers, this soup is sure to be a hit.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the rich, savory goodness of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds!