Chicken cordon bleu soup always brings back memories of a snowy night when I first tried to recreate my favorite comfort meal in soup form because I was short on time but still craving something warm and indulgent. I had leftover ham and cooked chicken in the fridge and a wedge of Swiss cheese waiting to be used and with a bit of cream and broth I ended up with something that instantly became a family favorite.

Since then I’ve made it more times than I can count and each bowl is just as creamy and cozy as the first and it’s the kind of soup that feels both elegant and easy which makes it perfect for chilly nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

Cooked chicken – The main protein that gives the soup substance and richness.
Diced ham – Adds a smoky, savory depth and classic cordon bleu flavor.
Butter – Used to sauté and build flavor from the start.
Onion – Brings in a bit of sweetness and balance.
Garlic – Adds aromatic warmth and complexity.
Chicken broth – The flavorful base that holds everything together.
Heavy cream – Makes the soup velvety and indulgent.
Cream cheese – Melts into the soup to give it a silky texture.
Swiss cheese – A must for that traditional cordon bleu flavor profile.
Parsley – Adds freshness and a touch of color.
Salt and pepper – For seasoning and balance.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot or Dutch oven – Perfect for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients.
Cutting board and knife – For chopping the onion and ham and prepping everything.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Helps stir without scratching your pot.
Measuring cups and spoons – To measure out the cream, broth, and seasonings.
Grater – For freshly shredded Swiss cheese if you’re not using pre-shredded.
Ladle – Makes it easy to serve the soup nice and hot.

Instructions

Step 1

I begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat until it’s bubbly but not browned.

Step 2

Next, I add the chopped onion and cook it for about 4 to 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, then I stir in the garlic and sauté it for just 30 seconds.

Step 3

Now I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4

I reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cream cheese, stirring slowly until it melts completely and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5

Then I add in the heavy cream, shredded cooked chicken, and diced ham and I let the soup simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes so all the flavors can meld together.

Step 6

At this point I stir in the shredded Swiss cheese a little at a time so it melts evenly into the soup without clumping.

Step 7

Finally, I season with salt and pepper to taste and sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

Tips

I recommend using room temperature cream cheese so it melts more easily into the soup without lumps.

If you’re out of Swiss cheese, try Gruyère for a similarly nutty flavor.

You can prep the chicken and ham ahead of time and freeze them in portions for easy weeknight soup-making.

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it won’t be quite as rich.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this soup with a crusty baguette or toasted garlic bread for dipping.

It’s great alongside a crisp Caesar salad or simple green mix.

For a cozy meal, serve it in a bread bowl and garnish with extra cheese and parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze chicken cordon bleu soup?

Yes, though because of the cream and cheese, the texture might change slightly upon reheating. I recommend reheating slowly on the stove and stirring well.

What kind of chicken works best in chicken cordon bleu soup?

I like to use rotisserie chicken or poached boneless chicken breasts for a tender, easy option.

Can I make chicken cordon bleu soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have Swiss?

Gruyère or provolone are great alternatives that melt well and still deliver a mild flavor.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this chicken cordon bleu soup a try! It’s a cozy twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to save it for your next comfort food craving or to impress your guests with something creamy and satisfying.

Happy Cooking!