This creamy and comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is everything you love about the classic French dish in cozy soup form. Inspired by the traditional breaded chicken stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, this version combines shredded chicken, diced ham, and melty Swiss cheese in a rich and velvety broth. It’s perfect for chilly days, easy to make in a single pot, and delivers all the same comforting flavors with far less work. Serve with crusty bread or rolls for a satisfying and hearty meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 ½ cups diced ham
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, shredded Swiss or Gruyère
Preparation
Step 1: Sauté aromatics
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the roux
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. This helps thicken the soup and build a creamy base.
Step 3: Add the broth
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Stir well until the mixture is smooth. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a low simmer.
Step 4: Add proteins and seasoning
Stir in shredded chicken and diced ham. Add dried thyme, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Stir in cream and cheese
Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, then slowly stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until melted and smooth. Do not boil after adding cream and cheese,just let it heat through gently.
Step 6: Taste and adjust
Taste for seasoning and adjust with additional salt or pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more broth or milk.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère for deeper flavor
- Add cooked rice or small pasta for a heartier version
- Include vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach
- Make it low carb by using cauliflower florets instead of thickener
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version
Cooking Notes
- For best results, use good-quality Swiss cheese that melts well
- Always add cream and cheese on low heat to prevent curdling
- Soup can be made ahead and stored for 3–4 days in the fridge
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often
- If you want it extra thick, add an extra tablespoon of flour during the roux step
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm rolls
- Pair with a green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal
- Offer croutons, bacon bits, or grated Parmesan as soup toppings
- Serve in bread bowls for a fun and filling presentation
- Add a dash of Dijon mustard to the bowl for extra zing
Tips
- Dice ham into small uniform cubes for even texture
- Cook onion until translucent, not browned, for delicate flavor
- For smoother soup, use an immersion blender before adding meat
- Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for easy lunches
- Use leftover holiday ham or chicken to make this budget-friendly
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 28g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 920mg
FAQs
Can I freeze Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
- Yes, but cream-based soups can change texture when frozen. If freezing, cool completely, store in airtight containers, and stir well after reheating. For best results, add the cream and cheese after thawing and reheating the broth base.
Can I use deli ham?
- Yes, diced deli ham or leftover baked ham both work great. Avoid very sweet glazes or honey ham unless you want a hint of sweetness.
Is it gluten-free?
- This recipe contains flour, but you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening to make it gluten-free.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
- You can sauté onions and garlic, then transfer everything except cream and cheese to a slow cooker on LOW for 3–4 hours. Stir in cream and cheese at the end, heat gently, then serve.
What type of chicken is best?
- Shredded rotisserie chicken is easiest and adds flavor. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or poached chicken breasts.
Conclusion
Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings the comforting flavors of the classic French dish into a creamy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, or anytime you crave cozy food. This soup combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese into a luxurious bowl that’s both elegant and family-friendly. With its quick prep time and flexible ingredients, it’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday starter or a main course, this soup delivers familiar comfort in every spoonful.