I’m so excited to share with you my favorite cheesy chicken broccoli soup recipe. This comforting dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home too.
The story behind this recipe is that it was passed down from my mother, who got it from her mother. It’s a traditional American recipe with a hint of European influence, and I love how it combines the creaminess of cheese with the freshness of broccoli and the richness of chicken broth.
When I make this soup, I always use fresh broccoli, but you can also use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. The key to making this soup is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the vegetables – you want them to retain their texture and flavor.
I like to serve this soup with some crusty bread or crackers on the side, but it’s also delicious on its own. My kids love this soup so much that they ask for it all the time – in fact, my youngest son will only eat it if I add extra cheese on top!
My husband is a big fan of this soup too, and he always says it’s one of his favorite meals that I make. As for me, I just love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish.
Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet without even realizing it! Overall, this cheesy chicken broccoli soup recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup
4.8 from 553 votes
A creamy, comforting soup loaded with tender chicken and fresh broccoli, all enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese broth. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for chilly evenings and comes together in under an hour.
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
👨🍳Directions
1Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
5Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then add the milk and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3 to 4 minutes.
6Add the broccoli florets and bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
7Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still bright green and easily pierced with a fork.
8Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
9Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
10Do not let it boil.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar or fresh parsley if desired.
For a thicker soup, use an extra tablespoon of flour. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the milk and reduce the cheddar to 1 1/2 cups.
Watch Video Of How Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup Works
This cheesy chicken broccoli soup recipe is one of my go-to meals when I need something comforting and familiar. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor.
My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients before we start cooking, and they always get excited when they see me adding in all those veggies – especially when they know there’s cheese involved! Of course, one of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – whether we’re having leftovers for lunch tomorrow or wanting something hearty after a long day at work…
this soup never fails us! We love serving this with some crusty bread on the side or even over rice if we’re feeling fancy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup
Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?
A: You can use any type of cheese you like in this recipe, but I prefer to use a combination of cheddar and parmesan for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can also use reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella instead.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat it until it’s hot and bubbly before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
A: To prevent the broccoli from getting mushy, be sure to add it towards the end of cooking time so that it retains its texture and color. You can also add some frozen broccoli instead of fresh if you prefer.
Q: Can I substitute chicken with other protein sources?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with other protein sources such as turkey or beef if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of protein you’re using.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this soup?
A: The best way to serve this soup is with some crusty bread or crackers on the side, but you can also serve it as a main course or as a side dish. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even add some chopped herbs or grated cheese on top for added flavor.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Unfortunately not – while you can omit the chicken from this recipe and still have a delicious vegetarian option, there are other ingredients like chicken broth that might not be suitable for vegetarians.
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