Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this creamy chicken and broccoli cheese soup recipe! This homemade classic is perfect for a cozy night in, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a potluck gathering. It's packed with flavor, bursting with tender chicken and broccoli florets, all swimming in a rich and cheesy broth. Get ready to experience the ultimate in comfort food – it's easier than you think!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Gather these items before you begin:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For an extra creamy soup, carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Soup
- Don't overcook the broccoli: You want it to be tender-crisp, not mushy. Adjust the simmering time depending on your broccoli's size and freshness.
- Use quality cheese: The cheese is a star ingredient in this recipe. Opt for good quality cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best flavor.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. For a thinner soup, add a little more chicken broth or milk.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Fontina, or even a blend of your favorites.
- Make it a creamy tomato soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes and a teaspoon of tomato paste for a delicious twist.
- Add some pasta: Toss in some small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
Enjoy this healthy and delicious chicken and broccoli cheese soup! It's a fantastic easy recipe perfect for quick dinner ideas and a great addition to your collection of best recipes. This comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite.