Hearty Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Creamy soups offer comfort on chilly days, and this cheesy chicken broccoli soup recipe brings warmth to your dinner table with its irresistible blend of flavors.

Tender chicken chunks swim alongside vibrant broccoli florets in a rich, velvety base that promises pure satisfaction.

The melted cheese creates a luxurious texture that hugs each ingredient with delicious intensity.

Hearty and nutritious, this soup delivers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables in every spoonful.

Home cooks adore how quickly this recipe comes together, making it an ideal weeknight meal solution.

Each bite promises a symphony of creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Serve this soul-warming soup and watch as smiles spread around the table.

Everything Needed for Cheesy Broccoli Soup Night

• Chicken: Protein that provides hearty flavor and substance to the soup.
• Broccoli: Fresh vegetable that adds nutrition and green color to the soup.
• Rice: Grain that helps thicken the soup and provides additional texture.

• Cheese: Adds creamy richness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Butter: Creates a smooth base for the soup's thickening agent.

• Olive Oil, Pepper, Paprika: Spices and oil that enhance the chicken's flavor and provide seasoning.
• Chicken Stock: Liquid base that builds depth and provides moisture for cooking.
• Flour: Thickening agent used to create a smooth and creamy soup consistency.

Soup-Making Tools for Silky, Cheesy Results

• 8-Quart Pot: Large, heavy-bottomed pot perfect for making soups and stews.
• Fork: Used to mash butter and flour together for the thickening mixture.
• Cutting Board: Essential for dicing chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for precise chicken cutting.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps stir ingredients and prevent sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.

Cooking Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup in a Snap

Step 1: Prep and Warm the Pot

Grab an 8-quart pot and set it on medium-high heat.

Slice the chicken into delectable bite-sized morsels that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 2: Sizzle the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil into the hot pot.

• Black pepper
• Paprika

Stir the chicken around, letting it dance in the pan until it turns a gorgeous golden brown (about 5 minutes).

Pour in the chicken stock, cover the pot, and bring to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Rice and Green Goodness

Toss in the rice and broccoli.

Pop the lid back on and let everything cook together.

The rice should become almost tender (al dente) in about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Magic

In a small bowl, blend butter and flour together.

Mash with a fork until they become best friends.

Pour this mixture into the soup and stir enthusiastically.

Add the cheese and let it melt into creamy perfection.

Reduce to a gentle simmer and let the soup warm up while you set the table.

Give it about 5 minutes, and watch as the soup naturally thickens to pure comfort food bliss.

Soup Tips for Ultra-Creamy Texture

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor and creates a delicious base for the soup.
• Use long-grain white rice for the best texture, and check it at 8 minutes to prevent overcooking and maintain a slightly firm bite.
• Grate cheese fresh and add it gradually while stirring to create a smooth, creamy consistency without clumping.
• Mix butter and flour thoroughly to create a smooth roux, which helps prevent lumps and ensures a silky soup texture.
• Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the overall depth of the soup's taste.

Ways to Change Up Your Broccoli Soup Recipe

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use coconut milk for a creamy, lactose-free version that's rich in flavor.
• Low-Carb Choice: Swap rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates and create a lighter, keto-friendly soup option.
• Vegetarian Comfort: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or white beans for a protein-packed meatless alternative that maintains the soup's hearty texture.
• Gluten-Free Solution: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate sensitive diets.

Ideas for Serving Cheesy Broccoli Soup Hot

• Cozy Family Dinner Companion: Serve this hearty soup with warm crusty bread for dipping and soaking up all the delicious cheesy goodness.
• Wholesome Meal Booster: Pair with a crisp green salad topped with sliced almonds to add fresh crunch and balance the rich soup texture.
• Protein Power Plate: Complement the soup with a side of grilled chicken strips or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and satisfying nutrition.
• Winter Comfort Combo: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a bright pop of color and subtle herb flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.

Storing Soup for Delicious Leftovers

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal tightly, and freeze for 2-3 months. Label container with date.
• Pour soup into microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Pour soup into saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add splash of chicken stock if soup seems too thick. Heat until steaming and thoroughly warmed through.

FAQs

• Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s nutritious with lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and calcium from cheese. The combination provides balanced nutrients in one comforting bowl.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend work great. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the chicken and broccoli flavors.

• Do I need special cooking skills to make this soup?

Not at all. This recipe is beginner-friendly with simple steps like dicing chicken, adding ingredients, and stirring. Anyone can successfully make this delicious soup.

• What makes the soup creamy?

The butter and flour mixture (roux) helps thicken the soup, creating a rich, smooth texture. The melted cheese also contributes to the creamy consistency.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup: Creamy, Cozy, and Satisfying

• This soup delivers hearty, satisfying flavors in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a warm, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Combine simple pantry staples like chicken, rice, and broccoli into a rich, creamy soup that feels like a gourmet restaurant dish but costs just pennies to prepare.
• Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-pot recipe that combines protein, vegetables, and grains in one delicious, streamlined cooking process, making mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
• Easily swap ingredients like different cheeses, add extra spices, or include alternative proteins to make this soup match your family's taste preferences and dietary needs.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup Recipe

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4.5 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty cheesy chicken broccoli soup delivers comfort in a bowl, blending creamy textures with nutritious ingredients. Rich flavors and simple preparation make this recipe a satisfying meal you’ll crave during chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 6 cups chicken stock

Vegetables and Grains:

• 14-ounce bag broccoli florets, frozen
• 1 cup jasmine rice

Seasonings and Dairy:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Warm an expansive cooking vessel over medium-high heat, transforming chicken into uniform, bite-sized morsels.
2. Introduce olive oil and seasoned chicken pieces to the pot, sprinkling with pepper and paprika. Sauté until golden and caramelized, approximately 5 minutes. Pour chicken stock, cover, and elevate to a rolling boil.
3. Incorporate rice and broccoli into the bubbling liquid. Restore lid and simmer until grains reach a tender yet slightly firm consistency, around 8-10 minutes.
4. Create a roux by thoroughly blending butter and flour in a compact mixing vessel until a smooth paste emerges. Fold this thickening agent into the simmering soup, stirring to integrate seamlessly.
5. Cascade cheese into the mixture, gently stirring to distribute. Reduce heat, allowing the soup to rest and consolidate flavors for roughly 5 minutes. During this time, the liquid will naturally thicken and develop a rich, creamy texture.

Notes

• Select tender chicken breasts for the most succulent texture and optimal flavor absorption.
• Use fresh broccoli florets to enhance nutritional value and provide a crisp, vibrant green color to the soup.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the thickening process.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or gruyère to customize the soup’s richness and depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg