Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup

Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying. This soup brings together tender pieces of chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and a rich, cheesy base that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Inspired by classic American comfort cuisine, it’s a hearty one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something cozy and homemade.

What sets this soup apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The mild sweetness of broccoli pairs beautifully with savory chicken and sharp cheddar cheese, while a creamy broth ties everything together seamlessly. Whether served as a main course or a filling starter, this soup delivers familiar, comforting flavors that appeal to both adults and kids alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup because it feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s rich without being overwhelming, filling without being heavy, and simple enough to prepare on a busy day. It’s also a great way to enjoy vegetables in a comforting form, and the combination of chicken and cheese makes it satisfying enough to stand alone as a full meal.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines classic comfort flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. If you enjoy creamy soups and one-pot meals that please everyone at the table, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 to 5 servings

Calories: Approximately 430 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:
Boneless, skinless chicken breast diced
Fresh broccoli florets chopped
Butter
Olive oil
Onion finely chopped
Garlic cloves minced
All-purpose flour
Chicken broth
Milk
Heavy cream

For the Cheese Flavor:
Sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Dry mustard powder (optional)

Cooking Directions

Cook the chicken until tender, sauté aromatics, create a creamy roux-based broth, then simmer with broccoli and finish with melted cheese for a smooth, comforting soup.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add diced chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by milk and cream, stirring to avoid lumps.
Step 6: Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender but still bright green.
Step 7: Return cooked chicken to the pot and stir gently.
Step 8: Reduce heat to low and add grated cheddar cheese slowly, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Step 9: Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder if using. Simmer briefly and serve warm.

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How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or freshly cracked black pepper. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm dinner rolls. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad.

Recipe Tips

Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting and better texture.
Tip: Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
Tip: Cut broccoli into small, even pieces for consistent cooking.
Tip: Adjust thickness by adding more broth or milk as needed.

Variations

Extra Creamy Version: Increase the amount of heavy cream or add a small amount of cream cheese.
Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add carrots, celery, or cauliflower along with broccoli.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the flour and thicken with extra cheese or blended cauliflower.
Rotisserie Chicken Version: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave.

Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth texture.

Special Equipment Needed

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Sharp knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting, creamy classic that never goes out of style. With its rich flavor, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s the perfect recipe for cozy dinners and make-ahead meals. Once you try it, this soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home kitchen.