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Ingredients for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika for added flavor
Directions for Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Chicken and Broccoli:
- Stir in the cooked chicken and broccoli florets, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green.
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
- Add the chicken broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Blend the Soup (Optional):
- For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.
5. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
- Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, if using.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Immersion blender (optional)
- Ladle for serving
Tips for Making the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli gives the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: You can include other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower to enhance the nutritional value of the soup.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer; for a thinner soup, add more chicken broth or cream.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits; you can add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.
Pairing Suggestions
Broccoli Cheese Soup with Chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
- Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For an extra cheesy experience, pair it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
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