Easy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup in 30 Minutes

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup on a cold day. But cooking for hours can be overwhelming. That’s why this chicken broccoli cheddar soup is perfect. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and is full of flavor.

It has tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy broth. This broccoli cheddar soup is the ideal quick meal.

As a busy mom, I know how hard it is to make a good dinner fast. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this easy soup recipe with you. It’s a dish that makes everyone happy and it’s quick to make.

Why This Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Will Become Your New Favorite

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy chicken broccoli cheddar soup! It’s a perfect mix of flavors, making it a great choice for a cozy meal. With a savory, cheesy base and lots of fresh broccoli, it’s loved by all.

Quick and Simple Preparation

This creamy chicken broccoli soup is super easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hot bowl ready. It’s perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers.

Protein-Rich Comfort Food

This best chicken broccoli cheddar soup is not just comforting. It’s also full of protein from the chicken. This makes it a more satisfying meal than regular broccoli cheddar soup. It’s a great mix of taste and health.

“This soup is an absolute delight! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and it’s so quick and easy to make. Definitely a new family favorite.”

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making the perfect chicken broccoli cheese soup or broccoli cheddar soup with chicken needs top-notch ingredients. You’ll need tender chicken and rich cheddar cheese. Each part is key to a cozy, comforting, and tasty dish.

Begin with 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This provides the protein base for your soup. Next, add 4-5 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets for flavor and texture.

The cheese blend is vital for creamy, cheesy goodness. Use 8 oz of sharp cheddar cheese, grated fresh for best melting. Also, add 4 oz of American cheese for a silky soup base.

To balance the richness, add 3-4 cups of quality chicken broth and 2 cups of milk or half-and-half. Essential aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots, along with butter, flour, and spices, enhance the flavor.

Some recipes include cauliflower for extra creaminess. By choosing and measuring these key ingredients, you’ll make a chicken broccoli cheese soup or broccoli cheddar soup with chicken that will be a family hit.

“The secret to a truly exceptional chicken broccoli cheese soup lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Each element, from the tender chicken to the sharp cheddar, plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious and comforting dish.”

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make the tasty easy chicken broccoli soup or chicken broccoli cheddar soup slow cooker, you need some basic tools. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make cooking easy.

Basic Cooking Utensils

• A large pot or Dutch oven: This is where you’ll simmer the soup.
• A cutting board and a sharp knife: Essential for chopping chicken and veggies.
• Liquid measuring cup: Important for measuring broth and other liquids right.
• Dry measuring cups and spoons: Needed for accurately measuring solid ingredients.
• A cheese grater: You’ll need it to shred cheddar cheese for that cheesy feel.
• A wooden spoon: Great for stirring and getting the bottom of the pot.

Specialized Equipment

While basic tools are a must, some specialized items can make things easier:

• An immersion blender: This tool helps make the soup smoother and creamier.
• A slow cooker: Perfect for those who like a no-fuss approach to the chicken broccoli cheddar soup slow cooker.

Optional Tools for Convenience

For even more convenience, consider these optional tools:

• A sauté pan: Useful if you want to cook the chicken before adding it to the soup.
• An Instant Pot: This versatile appliance can speed up the soup-making process.

With these tools, you’ll be ready to make the perfect easy chicken broccoli soup or chicken broccoli cheddar soup slow cooker quickly.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Get ready to make a creamy and comforting chicken broccoli soup quickly! Follow these easy steps to create the tasty creamy chicken broccoli cheddar soup your family will adore.

1. Start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots in 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir until well combined, creating a roux.
3. Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of chicken stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a thick, creamy texture.
4. Add 3 cups of broccoli florets and the grated carrot. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5. Uncover, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of hand-pulled rotisserie chicken (skin removed).
6. Remove the pot from the heat and slowly incorporate 8 ounces of grated sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and integrated.
7. Season the chicken broccoli soup with 1 teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, to taste.
8. Ladle the warm, creamy chicken broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and serve with your desired toppings.

With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious, comforting chicken broccoli soup on the table in under an hour. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

The Secret to Perfect Cheese Integration in Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the ultimate chicken cheddar broccoli soup or broccoli cheddar chicken soup is all about the cheese. The right cheese and melting techniques are key. They make the soup creamy and velvety.

Choosing the Right Cheese

For the best taste and texture, use freshly grated cheddar cheese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it can be gritty. Mix sharp cheddar with American cheese for a smooth base.

Proper Melting Techniques

To mix the cheese well into the soup, follow a special melting process. Take the pot off the heat and add cheese in small batches. Stir constantly until each batch melts. This slow method keeps the soup smooth and lump-free.

Temperature Control Tips

Keeping the right temperature is crucial for perfect cheese integration. Don’t let the soup boil after adding cheese. This can make it grainy. Instead, keep the heat low and stir gently until the cheese melts fully.

How to Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To make the perfect chicken soup with broccoli or healthy chicken broccoli cheddar soup, start with the chicken and veggies. Here’s how to prepare them for a delicious and healthy dish.

For the chicken, use thin-sliced cutlets or slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin strips. This makes the chicken cook fast and evenly. You can cook it in a separate pan or poach it in the broth for extra flavor.

For the veggies, cut the broccoli into small florets. Add diced carrots and cauliflower for more nutrition and color. Sauté them in olive oil or butter before adding the broth. This step boosts their flavors and keeps them tender.

Here’s a quick summary of the key steps:

1. Use thin-sliced chicken cutlets or sliced chicken breasts
2. Cook the chicken separately or poach it directly in the broth
3. Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets
4. Finely dice carrots and cauliflower for added nutrition
5. Sauté the vegetables briefly in oil or butter before adding broth
6. Ensure all vegetables are tender before adding dairy ingredients

By following these steps, you’ll make a chicken soup with broccoli or healthy chicken broccoli cheddar soup full of fresh flavors and textures.

Making the Creamy Soup Base for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating the perfect creamy chicken broccoli soup or easy chicken broccoli cheddar soup starts with a rich base. The key is making a flavorful roux, blending liquids well, and getting the right consistency. This consistency should coat the back of a spoon.

Creating the Roux

Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to get rid of any raw flour taste.

Adding Liquids

Slowly whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Then, pour in 1 cup of milk or half-and-half, stirring until it’s smooth and creamy.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

To make the soup thicker, you can add more flour to the roux or a cornstarch slurry. Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the soup. Let it simmer, stirring now and then, until it coats the spoon, about 5-10 minutes.

For a silky texture with some chunky bits, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This method gives you the perfect creamy and chunky mix.

“The secret to a truly creamy and indulgent chicken broccoli cheddar soup is all in the technique. Mastering the roux and balancing the liquids is key to crafting the ultimate comfort food.”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This chicken broccoli cheese soup casserole is perfect for leftovers. It’s easy to store and reheat, keeping the flavors of this broccoli cheddar soup with chicken and potatoes fresh all week.

For leftovers, put the soup in an airtight container and chill it in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring now and then. Don’t let it boil, as it can mess up the texture.

If the soup gets too thick, add a bit of milk or broth to thin it. This keeps it creamy. Reheat it slowly until it’s just warm, without overheating.

However, don’t freeze this chicken broccoli cheese soup casserole. The dairy can separate and ruin the texture and taste. Make the soup base ahead of time and add the dairy when reheating.

Follow these easy tips for storing and reheating. Enjoy this broccoli cheddar soup with chicken and potatoes all week. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy lunch.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Your homemade campbell broccoli cheese soup chicken recipe or best chicken broccoli cheddar soup needs the right finishing touches. Try serving it in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for a stunning look. Add a crisp side salad and some crusty artisan bread for dipping to make it a complete meal.

To make the flavors pop, add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, crunchy croutons, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. For a special touch, top it with crumbled bacon bits or sliced green onions.

Nutrition Facts	Campbell Broccoli Cheese Soup	Best Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Calories	413 kcal	427 kcal
Carbohydrates	38 g	25 g
Protein	37 g	26 g
Fat	14 g	26 g
Saturated Fat	5 g	16 g
Cholesterol	61 mg	92 mg
Sodium	975 mg	1604 mg
Potassium	1164 mg	986 mg
Fiber	6 g	4 g
Sugar	5 g	10 g
Vitamin A	1186 IU	1851 IU
Vitamin C	154 mg	79 mg
Calcium	263 mg	544 mg
Iron	3 mg	3 mg

Both the campbell broccoli cheese soup chicken recipe and the best chicken broccoli cheddar soup have great reviews. They got 5 out of 5 votes, showing users are very happy.

Whether in a bread bowl or with your favorite sides, you can make this soup special. Try different garnishes and pairings to find what you like best.

Serve this creamy soup with crusty bread for dipping. Try our homemade sourdough sandwich bread or for a quick option, air fryer garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment.

Variations and Dietary Modifications for Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This chicken broccoli cheddar soup is super versatile. You can change it up or make it fit your diet. There are many tasty ways to do this.

Slow Cooker Version

For a cozy chicken broccoli soup in the slow cooker, mix all ingredients except the dairy and cheese. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Then, add the heavy cream and cheddar cheese for the last 30 minutes. This method lets the flavors blend perfectly.

Lighter Option

Want a lighter soup? Use milk instead of heavy cream and less cheese. This keeps it creamy but lowers the fat and calories.

Vegetarian Variation

For a veggie option, skip the chicken and use veggie broth. The broccoli cheddar soup will still be tasty and filling.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

To make it gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. This keeps the soup creamy without wheat.

Heartier Soup

For a thicker chicken broccoli cheddar soup, add diced potatoes or try different veggies. Cauliflower is a great broccoli substitute.

Variation	Key Ingredients	Benefits
Slow Cooker	All ingredients except dairy and cheese	Hands-off cooking, allows flavors to meld
Lighter Option	Milk instead of heavy cream, less cheese	Reduced fat and calories
Vegetarian	Vegetable broth, no chicken	Meat-free, still flavorful
Gluten-Free	Gluten-free flour or cornstarch	Accommodates gluten sensitivities
Heartier Soup	Potatoes, cauliflower	More filling, added nutrients

These easy changes let you make the chicken broccoli cheddar soup your own. Try different cheeses, spices, and toppings. Make it your own cozy comfort food.

Conclusion

This easy chicken broccoli cheddar soup is perfect for any season. It’s quick to make and has a flavor you can customize. It is also nutritious, making it a great addition to your recipes.

It’s great for a family dinner or a cozy lunch. This broccoli cheddar soup with chicken is full of taste and satisfaction.

The secret to the best chicken broccoli cheddar soup is mixing tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese just right. Follow the steps and use the tips from this guide. You’ll make a soup as good as a restaurant’s in your kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Start making this chicken broccoli cheddar soup now. You’ll love the mix of protein, veggies, and creamy cheese in every bite. Enjoy this soup all year!

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in chicken broccoli cheddar soup?

The main ingredients are chicken breast, broccoli florets, and sharp cheddar cheese. You also need American cheese, chicken broth, and milk or half-and-half. Don’t forget butter, flour, onion, garlic, and carrots. Some recipes add cauliflower for extra creaminess.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this soup?

You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a knife. Also, a liquid measuring cup, dry measuring cups, and a cheese grater are essential. A wooden spoon is handy, and an immersion blender can make the soup smoother. You can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for ease.

How do you prepare the chicken and vegetables for the soup?

Use thin-sliced chicken cutlets or slice chicken breasts thinly. Cook the chicken separately or poach it in the broth. Cut the broccoli into florets and add diced carrots and cauliflower for extra nutrition.

What’s the secret to perfectly melting the cheese in the soup?

Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor. Mix sharp cheddar with American cheese for smooth melting. Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese, stirring until melted. This method prevents separation and keeps the soup creamy.

How do you make the creamy soup base?

Start with a roux of butter and flour. Whisk in the chicken broth slowly to avoid lumps. Add milk or half-and-half slowly while stirring. For a thicker soup, use more flour or a cornstarch slurry. Simmer until it coats the back of a spoon.

How should you store and reheat the leftover soup?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent separation. If it thickens too much, add a little milk or broth. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content.

What are some serving suggestions and garnishes for this soup?

Serve the soup in a sourdough bread bowl or with crusty artisan bread for dipping. Top it with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or half a sandwich.

Are there any variations or dietary modifications for this recipe?

Yes, there are several options. If you are interested on a slow cooker version, combine all ingredients except dairy and cheese, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add the dairy and cheese in the last 30 minutes. Use milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese quantity for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.