Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When the weather turns chilly, there is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Best Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This American classic is the ultimate comfort meal, combining a rich, creamy base with the heartiness of tender chicken and fresh broccoli florets. It is a nourishing, high-protein dish that feels like a warm embrace on a cold day.

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This soup is a household favorite because it manages to be both indulgent and wholesome. The subtle addition of smoked paprika and nutmeg provides a hidden depth that elevates the sharp cheddar, making every spoonful incredibly flavorful.

Ingredients

• Poultry: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• Vegetables: 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head), 1 medium carrot (diced), 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 celery stalks (diced)
• Dairy: 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated), 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Broth & Thickener: 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Thickener

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

Step 4: Whisk Broth

Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Simmer Broccoli

Add broccoli florets, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until broccoli is tender.

Step 6: Add Chicken and Dairy

Stir in cooked chicken, milk, and cream. Heat gently for 5 minutes, but do not boil.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Remove from heat. Gradually add grated cheddar, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh herbs if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, cook the flour for a full minute to ensure the soup doesn't have a raw taste. When adding the cheese, ensure the pot is removed from the heat; this prevents the cheese from breaking or becoming oily, resulting in a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. If you don't have chicken, cooked turkey makes an excellent substitute. For those who enjoy a bit of extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the broth.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with a side of warm crusty bread for dipping. For a final touch, garnish each bowl with extra shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance the presentation and flavor.

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Whether enjoyed on a quiet evening or served to guests, this Best Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a reliable classic that never fails to satisfy. Its rich blend of protein and vegetables makes it a nourishing choice that everyone will love.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Add it directly to the simmering broth without thawing, but reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes since frozen florets cook faster.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?

Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese and stir gradually. Use freshly grated cheddar rather than pre-shredded, as anti-caking agents can affect texture. Never boil after adding cheese.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much during storage.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half for a lighter version, or try full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free preparation. Greek yogurt stirred in at the end also works, but avoid boiling after addition.

→ How can I make this soup thicker?

Increase flour to 3 tablespoons, or blend a portion of the soup before adding cheese. Alternatively, simmer uncovered for an extra 5-10 minutes to reduce liquid naturally.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Cream-based soups can separate when frozen, but it's possible. Cool completely, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months, then reheat gently and whisk to recombine if needed.