Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, grated
Liquids and Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Thickening and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free version)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the chicken breasts and ham into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the Swiss cheese. Set everything aside for easy access during cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build the flavorful base for your soup.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring constantly to cook out the raw taste and thicken the mixture, about 2 minutes.
- Add Broth and Cream: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, forming a silky, luscious broth.
- Incorporate Proteins: Add the diced chicken and ham to the pot. Let them cook thoroughly for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavors meld.
- Melt in Swiss Cheese and Season: Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Swiss cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and a hint of nutmeg, mixing gently to combine all flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness before ladling the soup into bowls. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Use freshly grated Swiss cheese for better melting and superior flavor.
- Pour broth gradually into the roux to prevent lumps and create a smooth base.
- Add cheese off the heat or on very low to avoid a grainy texture.
- Let soup rest a few minutes before serving to thicken and allow flavors to meld.
- For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots to boost nutrition and texture.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Swap Swiss cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup, creamy soup, chicken soup, ham and cheese soup, comfort food, French-inspired soup, cozy dinner