Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When the air turns crisp, there is nothing quite as inviting as a steaming bowl of Best Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This creamy, hearty comfort soup is loaded with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese — making it the perfect choice for a nourishing and satisfying meal.

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The secret to this soup lies in the balance of textures. From the soft, sautéed vegetables to the tender broccoli florets and the rich, velvety cheese base, every spoonful offers a delightful mix of flavors. It is an American classic that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 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
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 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: Create the Base

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

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

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

Step 5: Simmer Vegetables

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 Protein and Dairy

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

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

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

Step 8: Serving

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

If you prefer a thicker, smoother consistency, try blending half the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cheese. This creates a creamier base while retaining some texture from the chicken and broccoli pieces.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile; you can easily substitute turkey for chicken if you have leftovers on hand. For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, adding a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can provide an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Serviervorschläge

To make this a complete and filling meal, serve your soup alongside a warm piece of crusty bread for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, cheesy broth.

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Whether you are feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this Best Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a guaranteed winner. Enjoy the wholesome ingredients and rich flavors of a truly classic comfort dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore consistency.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Freezing works best before adding cheese. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, reheat, then stir in cheddar.

→ How do I get the smoothest texture?

Use an immersion blender to puree half the soup after broccoli is tender but before adding dairy and cheese. This creates a creamy base while leaving some chunks for texture.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic knots, or oyster crackers make perfect accompaniments. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Frozen broccoli works well—thaw first and pat dry to prevent watering down the broth. Add during the last 5-6 minutes of simmering to maintain texture.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from separating?

Remove the pot from heat completely before adding cheese. Gradually stir in small handfuls, letting each melt fully. Avoid boiling after dairy and cheese are added.