Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Comforting Classic

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a warm, creamy classic that many love for its rich cheese flavor and tender veggies. This version adds shredded chicken for extra protein and heartiness, making it a perfect meal on its own. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a cold day or a comforting lunch, this soup delivers satisfying textures and flavors. The combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory chicken in a creamy base makes it both delicious and nourishing.

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You don’t need fancy skills or ingredients — just simple, wholesome components and step-by-step guidance to create a bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and cooking process.

Ingredients and Preparation

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound (450g) fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced (optional, adds creaminess and thickness)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for subtle smoky flavor)

Preparation notes:

• For cooked chicken, you can roast, boil, or sauté the chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked and shred them using two forks.
• Fresh broccoli is preferred for best flavor and texture. Frozen broccoli can be used but might alter the soup’s consistency slightly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese should be freshly grated to ensure it melts smoothly into the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the chicken:
   • If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, season it lightly with salt and pepper, then roast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked. Let it cool and shred it finely. Alternatively, poach the chicken in simmering water for about 15 minutes.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the roux:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously.
4. Add liquids and vegetables:
   • Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure no lumps form.
   • Add the diced potato and broccoli florets to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until the potatoes and broccoli are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Blend the soup (optional):
   • For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup directly in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer about half the soup to a blender, puree it, and return it to the pot.
6. Add the chicken and cheese:
   • Stir in the shredded chicken.
   • Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and fully combined.
7. Add milk and season:
   • Pour in the milk or half-and-half and gently warm the soup without boiling to prevent curdling.
   • Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Final simmer:
   • Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes to allow all flavors to meld together.
9. Serve hot:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Cooking chicken: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your grocery store for convenience. Just shred and add it in step 6.
• Roux consistency: Stir the flour well into the butter and vegetables to avoid lumps. If lumps form, whisk briskly or use a blender to smooth the soup later.
• Blending tips: If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer soup in batches to a regular blender, then return it to the pot. Always blend hot soup cautiously to avoid splashes.
• Cheese melting: Use sharp cheddar for best flavor and meltability. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents as they sometimes don’t melt as smoothly.
• Milk substitute: For a lighter soup, you can substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, but the soup will be less creamy.
• Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, though the texture might slightly change after freezing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this soup with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well to balance the richness of the soup.
• For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple quinoa salad.
• Garnish with extra shredded cheddar, freshly ground black pepper, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
• This soup also works great as a filling for a bread bowl for a fun presentation.

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Engagement Features

• Have you ever tried making broccoli cheddar soup at home? What’s your favorite twist on this classic recipe?
• Do you prefer it chunky or smooth? Share your texture preference and why!
• What’s your go-to protein to add in soups? Chicken, beef, or something else?
• Looking for other comforting soup ideas? Let me know what you want next!
• Tried this recipe? Share your results or any tweaks you made!

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for any season. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can create a delicious, nutritious meal. The substitution of chicken for traditional bacon or ham keeps it wholesome while still packing plenty of flavor. It’s a satisfying blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar in a creamy broth that will warm you from the inside out.