Hey there, friend! Let’s talk about a cozy, soul-warming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl: Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup! I love making this on cold days or when I need something hearty and comforting. It’s super easy to whip up, packed with flavor, and offers a delicious combination of chicken, nutritious broccoli, and gooey cheddar cheese. Trust me; you’ll want to grab a spoon and dive into this creamy goodness!
Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup
This soup isn’t just tasty; it’s also quite good for you! Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse filled with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, it brings tons of flavor to your bowl. The chicken offers lean protein, making it a satisfying meal. And let’s not forget the rich cheddar cheese! While I’ve got to admit it adds some calories, it also provides calcium and brings that luscious creaminess we love.
Fun Variations to Make
The beauty of this soup is how easy it is to mix things up! Here are a few playful variations:
- For a Vegan Option: Swap out chicken for chickpeas and use vegetable broth. You can also replace the cheddar with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for creaminess.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a delightful kick!
- More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or even cauliflower for extra nutrition.
Easy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- To start, in a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot. Shred it with two forks and return it to the soup.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until they’re tender. If you prefer your broccoli a bit firmer, feel free to adjust the cooking time!
- Now it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you want to meal prep, this soup stores nicely in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- For longer storage, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool, then freeze it in portions. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.
- Your soup can become thicker as it sits. If that happens, simply add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup:
- A large pot or Dutch oven for cooking
- A cutting board and sharp knife for chopping
- A shredded cheese grater (if you prefer fresh cheese over pre-shredded)
- A measuring cup for liquids
- Two forks for shredding the chicken
- A ladle for serving up that delicious soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine; just add it at the same time you would fresh.
- Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free? Yes! Just ensure you’re using gluten-free chicken broth, and you’re good to go!
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Definitely! It can be made a day or two in advance. Just reheat it before serving.
- Can I add other ingredients? Sure! Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices or throw in additional veggies.
- What’s a good bread to serve with this soup? A classic French baguette or a crusty sourdough would complement it perfectly!
I can’t wait for you to try this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup—it’s sure to warm your heart! If you made it, let me know how it turned out! For more cozy recipes and comforting meals, follow me on Pinterest. Let’s keep sharing the love of good food!
