Save Pin Warm up with a bowl of this creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the ultimate comfort food for any chilly day. This recipe combines tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Save Pin This American classic is a staple for a reason. By creating a smooth roux and slowly incorporating chicken broth and milk, you achieve a thick consistency that perfectly coats the chunks of chicken and florets of broccoli. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese at the very end ensures a smooth finish and a punch of savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 2
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Step 3
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Step 4
- Add the broccoli, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
- Step 5
- Stir in the cooked chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Step 7
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Für eine besonders cremige Konsistenz können Sie die Hälfte der Suppe pürieren, bevor Sie den Käse und das Hähnchen hinzufügen. Wenn es schnell gehen muss, ist die Verwendung von fertig gegartem Rotisserie-Hähnchen eine zeitsparende und schmackhafte Option.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Diese Suppe lässt sich leicht variieren: Ersetzen Sie den Brokkoli durch Blumenkohl oder fügen Sie gewürfelte Kartoffeln für eine herzhaftere Mahlzeit hinzu. Um das Gericht glutenfrei zuzubereiten, verwenden Sie einfach eine entsprechende glutenfreie Mehlmischung für die Mehlschwitze.
Serviervorschläge
Servieren Sie die Suppe heiß und garnieren Sie diese nach Belieben mit zusätzlichem Cheddar oder frischen Kräutern. Besonders gut schmeckt sie mit einer Beilage aus knusprigem Brot zum Dippen oder einem leichten Gartensalat als frischem Kontrast.
Save Pin Whether enjoyed as a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a reliable favorite. Its perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy cheese makes it a wholesome meal that truly hits the spot every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 3 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing works best before adding the cheese. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, reheat, then stir in the cheese.
- → What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
Use poached chicken breasts, leftover roast chicken, or even cooked turkey. For a vegetarian version, substitute with white beans or extra broccoli.
- → How do I prevent the cheese from separating?
Remove the pot from heat before stirring in the cheese. Add gradually while stirring constantly. Avoid boiling after the cheese is incorporated.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- → How can I make this soup thicker?
Increase the flour to 3 tablespoons when making the roux, or blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese and chicken. Adding diced potatoes also naturally thickens the broth.