This Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup brings all the cozy comfort you love into a bowl! With tender chicken, ham, and creamy cheese, it’s a warm hug on a chilly day.
Whenever I make this soup, my family can’t get enough of it. I mean, who can resist cheesy goodness? Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and you’re all set for a happy meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: This adds a rich flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use olive oil instead. Coconut oil can also work if you prefer a dairy-free choice.
Onion: A small onion is perfect for this recipe, but shallots or leeks are great alternatives for a subtle sweetness. If you’re short on fresh onions, grab some onion powder instead!
Chicken:** Use any cooked chicken you have. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for busy days. If you’re vegetarian, you can swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Ham: In case you’re not a ham fan, cooked turkey or even more chicken would be delicious. For a vegetarian twist, just skip this ingredient.
Cheese: Swiss or Gruyère gives that classic flavor, but feel free to use cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste. Vegan cheese can work, too, if you want to keep it dairy-free.
Heavy Cream: You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or almond milk, which will bring a slight sweetness.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy and Smooth?
A key step in achieving that creamy texture is making a roux. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Cook the onions and garlic first; this builds great flavor.
- Then, sprinkle flour while stirring to combine, cooking for a couple of minutes. This helps to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking continuously, which prevents lumps from forming.
- Let it simmer and thicken before adding the other ingredients, keeping the heat low when adding the cheese and cream to prevent separation.
This way, you’ll have a luscious, creamy soup that your family will rave about! Enjoy!

Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have a hearty bowl of soup ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it turns soft and translucent, which should take about 4–5 minutes. This step builds a rich flavor base for your soup.
2. Add Garlic and Flour:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing. Then, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux, which gives the soup its creamy texture.
3. Whisk in the Broth:
Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add Chicken and Ham:
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients! Stir in the cooked chicken and diced ham, along with the dried thyme if you’re using it. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, and mix in the shredded cheese, heavy cream, and crumbled bacon. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. This step makes your soup wonderfully creamy and cheesy!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep it warm on low heat without boiling. When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra crumbled bacon and fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color.
This creamy, cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup is not only delicious but also comforting. Pair it with some crusty bread or a light green salad for a delightful meal. Enjoy your warm bowl of happiness!

Can I Substitute the Chicken with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can use turkey for a similar taste or even chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure the substitute is cooked before adding it to the soup.
How Can I Thicken the Soup Further?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to your roux or mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water) and stir it in at the end until it thickens to your liking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead! Prepare it fully, then let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring to avoid separation of the cream.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.