Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that takes all the classic flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese from the traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu and transforms them into a hearty soup. This warm and flavorful soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for a satisfying family meal.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour is lightly golden and no longer raw.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

1. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to eliminate any lumps.
2. Add the half-and-half or heavy cream, whisking to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Chicken, Ham, and Seasonings

1. Stir in the cooked chicken, diced ham, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.
• Cheese: For best results, use freshly grated Swiss cheese, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Ham: Diced ham steak or leftover holiday ham works well for this recipe.

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Replace the flour with a low-carb thickener, such as xanthan gum, and use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
• Vegetable Addition: Add chopped broccoli or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
• Bacon Topping: Top each bowl with crispy crumbled bacon for added flavor.
• Cheddar Twist: Substitute half of the Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring frequently.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Soup?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

You can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even provolone for a similar flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy soup.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Crackers: Add some crunchy crackers on the side for texture.
• Herb Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for extra color and flavor.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a warm, creamy bowl of goodness. With tender chicken, savory ham, and rich Swiss cheese, this soup is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the comforting taste of this flavorful dish!