Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

A Comforting Bowl of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

Rainy days call for cozy comfort food, and for me, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup has become a family staple, a delicious twist on a classic dish that's surprisingly easy to make. Forget the fussy layering and rolling of a traditional Chicken Cordon Bleu; this recipe brings all the familiar flavors into a creamy, satisfying soup that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen. Imagine the rich scent of simmering chicken broth mingling with the savory notes of ham and the delicate sweetness of carrots and celery. This soup is a symphony of textures, too – the tender chicken, the crispy croutons, and the melt-in-your-mouth Swiss cheese all create a delightful contrast that elevates the experience. I love using rotisserie chicken to save time, but you can certainly cook your own chicken breast if you prefer. The key is to make sure the chicken is nicely cubed and ready to add to the pot.

What sets this soup apart is its versatility. It’s a perfect blank canvas for culinary creativity. Want to add a bit of spice? Throw in some red pepper flakes! Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of cheese. I've even been known to add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of depth and complexity. And the croutons? Oh, the croutons! Toasted to golden perfection, they add a satisfying crunch that perfectly balances the creamy soup base. I always make a double batch, just because they're so addictive.

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a warm and comforting experience for my family. The time spent in the kitchen, the aroma that fills the air, and the shared meal at the end – these are the memories I cherish. This soup is more than just a recipe; it's a hug in a bowl, a symbol of nourishment and love. It's a testament to the simple joys of home-cooked meals and the power of food to bring people together. And honestly, who doesn't love a soup that's both incredibly delicious and incredibly easy to make? It's a true win-win, especially on those busy weeknights when you need a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal on the table.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the process is straightforward. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can confidently tackle this recipe. And trust me, the results are worth the effort. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the comforting aroma of Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness. You'll be surprised how quickly this becomes a favorite in your household.

I often serve this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that creamy goodness. Sometimes I'll add a simple salad on the side for a lighter meal. But really, the soup stands on its own, needing nothing more than perhaps a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. The key is to enjoy the experience of making and sharing this delicious creation. It's a reminder that even the simplest meals can be extraordinary when made with love and care. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of this delightful soup. You won't regret it!

Step-by-step

• Melt butter in 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large Dutch oven/soup pot.
• Increase heat to medium high and add onions, carrots and celery and sauté for 5 minutes.
• Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
• Sprinkle in flour and cook, while stirring, an additional 2 minutes.
• Turn heat to low and stir in chicken, ham and potatoes.
• Add chicken broth.
• Whisk cornstarch with half and half (you can whisk with as little as 1/2 cup milk, just enough so it dissolves) and add to pot.
• Stir in Dijon, bay leaves and all seasonings.
• Increase heat to high, cover pot and bring to a boil.
• Remove lid and reduce heat to a gentle simmer until potatoes are fork tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Remove from heat and stir in Swiss Cheese until melted.
• Taste and add salt and pepper to taste (salt will depend on how salty your ham was to start with).
• Add additional half and half for a less “chunky” soup if desired and warm through.
• Garnish individual servings with croutons and fresh parsley (optional).
• While the soup is simmering make your croutons. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F degrees. Add bread to a foil lined baking sheet (for easy clean up). Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder and salt. Toss until evenly coated then spread into an even layer on baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden.