Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor! This hearty soup combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese in a velvety broth that warms you from the inside out.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a quick, satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and can be customized to your taste. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness that’s sure to become a family favorite!
How To Make Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup?
Recipe Overview
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions
1. Sauté The Chicken And Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Cook The Broccoli
Add broccoli florets to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they become vibrant green. This step ensures the broccoli retains its color and nutrients.
3. Prepare The Base
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
4. Add Dairy Components
Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in milk, ensuring it integrates seamlessly without curdling. Add shredded cheddar cheese in small batches, stirring until fully melted and the soup achieves a creamy texture. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Nutrition Facts Of Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Dietary Fiber: 2 g
- Total Sugars: 6 g
- Total Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
Serving Suggestions Of Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup
Accompaniments
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette can be perfect for dipping.
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor by topping the soup with additional shredded cheddar, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or crispy bacon bits.
Tips And Variations Of Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with skim milk or unsweetened almond milk.
To add depth, incorporate a dash of nutmeg or smoked paprika.
Texture Adjustments
For a smoother soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender before adding the cheese.
Note
For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative or cornstarch. Ensure all ingredients, especially broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free.
Is Broccoli Cheddar Soup Good Or Bad For You?
Broccoli cheddar soup can be both good and bad for you. It has vitamins from broccoli and calcium from cheese. But it is often high in fat, calories, and sodium. I enjoy it in moderation and make lighter versions at home.
Conclusion
Crafting this Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup is a delightful culinary experience that combines wholesome ingredients into a comforting dish.
Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a chilly day or a nutritious meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Cheddar Chicken Broccoli Soup
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions
Sauté The Chicken And Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cook The Broccoli
- Add broccoli florets to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they become vibrant green. This step ensures the broccoli retains its color and nutrients.
Prepare The Base
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Add Dairy Components
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in milk, ensuring it integrates seamlessly without curdling. Add shredded cheddar cheese in small batches, stirring until fully melted and the soup achieves a creamy texture. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.