Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Introduction

Imagine all the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a warm, creamy soup! Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese in a luscious broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or for impressing guests with something unique and delicious. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this hearty and satisfying soup.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breasts, or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand.
2. Shred or Dice: Shred or dice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Soup Base

1. Create the Roux: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
2. Add Broth and Cream: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the half-and-half or heavy cream and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.

Adding the Meats

1. Incorporate Chicken and Ham: Add the shredded chicken and diced ham to the pot, stirring to combine.
2. Balance Flavors: Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Cheese Integration

1. Types of Cheese: Use a blend of Swiss and Gruyère cheese for a rich and authentic flavor.
2. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheese to the soup, stirring constantly until it is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

Seasoning the Soup

1. Essential Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or mustard if needed.
2. Tips for Perfect Seasoning: Remember to season gradually and taste frequently to achieve the perfect balance.

Simmering the Soup

1. Proper Simmering Technique: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Achieving the Right Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.

Adding Optional Garnishes

1. Suggested Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, add a handful of croutons, or top with extra shredded cheese for a lovely presentation.
2. How to Garnish: Add garnishes just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Course: Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pairing with Beverages: A glass of white wine or a light beer pairs beautifully with this creamy soup.

Storing and Reheating

1. Storing Leftovers: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Alternative Ingredients: Try using turkey instead of chicken, or substitute the ham with bacon or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
2. Dietary Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. For a lighter version, use milk instead of cream.

Tips for Success

1. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to become grainy. Stir the soup gently to prevent the cheese from separating.
2. Pro Tips: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-cook and cool the chicken and ham before adding them to the soup to maintain the right texture.

Health Benefits

1. Nutritional Value of Key Ingredients: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while Swiss and Gruyère cheeses add calcium and essential fats.
2. Healthier Alternatives: Use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie content. Add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a luxurious and comforting dish that brings together the classic flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a warm, creamy soup. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious blend of chicken, ham, and cheese in every spoonful!

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover chicken?
   • Yes, leftover chicken works perfectly for this recipe and adds great flavor.
2. How long does the soup stay fresh?
   • The soup stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
3. Can I freeze the soup?
   • Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What can I use instead of ham?
   • You can use bacon, prosciutto, or even turkey ham as a substitute for ham.
5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
     Yield: 8

     Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

     

     Print

     Imagine all the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu in a warm, creamy soup! Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish, combining tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese in a luscious broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly night or for impressing guests with something unique and delicious. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this hearty and satisfying soup.

     - Advertisement -

     Prep Time 15 minutes

     Cook Time 30 minutes

     Ingredients

     • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
     • 1 small yellow onion diced
     • 2 carrots diced
     • 2 ribs celery diced
     • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
     • 1 teaspoon paprika
     • 1 teaspoon salt more or less to taste
     • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
     • 1 (32 oz) box chicken broth
     • 1 pint heavy cream
     • 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
     • 4 cup cooked and cubed chicken about 1 store-bought rotisserie (1 pound); leftover holiday turkey works great, too!
     • 1 (8 oz) package cubed ham leftover holiday ham works great, too!
     • 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese cubed and softened to room temperature
     • Swiss cheese shredded for serving

     Instructions

     • Melt butter in a large stockpot over medium heat.

     • Once melted, add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, paprika, salt and pepper.

     • Cook, stirring regularly, until the carrots have softened, about 10 minutes.

     • Add in the chicken broth, cream, dijon mustard, chicken, ham, and cream cheese, then cook, stirring regularly, until the soup is hot and the cream cheese has melted.

     • Taste and re-season, if necessary, then spoon into bowls and serve with shredded Swiss cheese and croutons!