Name: Chicken Broccoli Soup: 1 Amazing Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tbsp butter or ghee; 1 medium leek, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, finely chopped; 1 medium head of broccoli, chopped into florets; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 3 whole potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 whole chicken legs (about 2 cups shredded chicken breast or leftover roast chicken); 5 cups water; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish; Squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Chicken broccoli soup has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially on those blustery evenings when all you want is something warm and satisfying. I remember the first time I made this creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe from scratch; the aroma of sautéed leeks and garlic filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s a dish that feels both incredibly indulgent and surprisingly healthy, packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a velvety broth that hugs your soul. This homemade chicken broccoli soup is so easy, you’ll be making it weekly. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Soup

This Chicken Broccoli Soup is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and health, making it ideal for any occasion. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

Quick and Easy Preparation: With a total time of just over an hour, this soup is surprisingly fast to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without a lot of fuss.
Comforting and Hearty Flavors: The creamy, velvety texture from the blended potatoes and sour cream, combined with tender chicken and savory broth, is incredibly satisfying.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from fresh broccoli and carrots, this soup is a wholesome choice. It’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in!
Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike adore the mild, savory taste and the appealing combination of chicken and broccoli. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Versatile for Leftovers: This soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Enjoy a delicious bowl for lunch throughout the week!
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients for this easy chicken broccoli soup in your pantry already.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this truly delicious creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe. I’ve found that using fresh, good-quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 tbsp butter or ghee – For sautéing the aromatics and adding richness.
1 medium leek, finely chopped – This adds a delicate onion flavor that’s milder than regular onions.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Essential for that classic savory soup base.
2 medium carrots, diced – For sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
2 celery stalks, finely chopped – Adds depth and a subtle herbaceous note.
1 medium head of broccoli, chopped into florets – The star vegetable, adding freshness and texture.
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed – These will be blended to create the creamy base of our soup.
2 whole chicken legs (about 2 cups shredded chicken breast or leftover roast chicken) – The protein powerhouse for this hearty soup.
5 cups water – For making the flavorful chicken broth.
½ cup sour cream – This is key for achieving that signature creamy texture.
1 cup Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth that complements everything.
Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance all the other flavors.
1 tsp dried oregano – Adds a classic Mediterranean herb flavor.
1 tsp dried thyme – Earthy and aromatic, pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish – For a fresh finish and visual appeal.
Squeeze of lemon juice (optional) – Brightens up all the flavors at the end.

Chicken Broccoli Soup: 1 Amazing Comfort Dish - Chicken Broccoli Soup - main visual representation

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Soup

Now for the fun part – bringing this delicious soup to life! Making this creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe from scratch is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness ready in no time. It’s a truly rewarding experience, and the smell alone will make you proud.

Step 1: Make the Broth
Start by making a flavorful base. In a large saucepan, combine the 2 whole chicken legs, a quarter of the chopped leek, one diced carrot, some chopped celery, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Cover everything with 5 cups of water. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes. Carefully remove the chicken to a plate to cool, and strain the broth, reserving the cooked vegetables from this step. This homemade broth is the foundation of our amazing soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the chicken cools, grab a large soup pot or Dutch oven and melt half the butter (about 1.5 tbsp) over medium heat. Add the remaining chopped leek, the diced carrots, and the chopped celery. Sauté these aromatics for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for just 1 minute more until you can smell their pungent aroma – be careful not to burn them!
Step 3: Build the Base
Add the 3 cubed potatoes and the dried seasonings – 1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried thyme – to the pot. Stir everything around for a couple of minutes to toast the herbs slightly. Now, pour in the reserved homemade chicken broth and add the remaining 3 whole potatoes (cubed). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add Chicken
Once the chicken legs are cool enough to handle, shred the meat using two forks. Discard the skin and bones. Stir the shredded chicken into the simmering soup during the last 10 minutes of the potato cooking time. This allows the chicken to heat through and meld its savory flavor with the broth.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
This is where the magic happens for that signature creamy texture! Carefully scoop out the tender, cooked potatoes and the reserved cooked vegetables from the broth-making step into a blender. Add a few spoonfuls of the hot broth to help things along. Blend until you have a super smooth, velvety purée. Pour this mixture back into the soup pot and stir well to combine.
Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream
To ensure your sour cream integrates smoothly without curdling, start by tempering it. Ladle about a cup of the hot soup broth into a small bowl and whisk in the ½ cup sour cream until it’s smooth and well combined. Then, gently stir this tempered sour cream mixture back into the main soup pot. This step is crucial for achieving a beautifully creamy finish.
Step 7: Add Broccoli
Now it’s time to add the vibrant green goodness! Stir in the chopped broccoli florets into the soup. Cover the pot and let it simmer for just 5-6 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp and still bright green, not mushy. This quick cooking time preserves its fresh flavor and texture.
Step 8: Finish and Season
Turn off the heat. Stir in the 1 cup Parmesan cheese and the remaining 1.5 tbsp butter until they are completely melted and incorporated, adding a final layer of richness and savory depth. Taste the soup carefully and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, add a bright squeeze of lemon juice to really make all the flavors pop.
Step 9: Serve
Ladle the hot, creamy chicken and broccoli soup into warm bowls. Garnish generously with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This soup is wonderful served on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Soup

I’ve made this soup countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect. These simple tips will elevate your easy chicken broccoli soup from good to unforgettable!

For the smoothest texture, make sure your potatoes are completely cooked before blending. Overcooked or undercooked potatoes can affect the creaminess.
Don’t skip tempering the sour cream! This simple step prevents it from curdling and ensures a consistent, velvety soup.
Taste and adjust seasonings at the very end. Broth and cheese can be salty, so it’s best to season gradually.
If you don’t have leeks, a mild yellow onion can be substituted, but leeks offer a more delicate flavor that I really love in this soup.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken broccoli soup?

The real secret to this creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe is blending the cooked potatoes with some broth to create a natural, starchy thickener. It gives the soup a luxurious, velvety texture without needing heavy cream. For more tips on achieving perfect soup textures, check out this guide.

Can I make chicken broccoli soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup entirely up to the point of adding the broccoli and sour cream. Store it in the fridge, then add those ingredients and reheat gently when ready to serve. This is a great way to prep for a quick weeknight meal. You can find more meal prep ideas here.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chicken broccoli soup?

A common pitfall is overcooking the broccoli, making it mushy and dull. Add it only during the last few minutes of cooking. Also, be careful not to boil the soup after adding the sour cream, as this can cause it to curdle. Understanding proper cooking techniques is key to delicious results, as discussed in this article.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Broccoli Soup

This hearty chicken and broccoli soup is a meal in itself, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to make it even more satisfying. It’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch.

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: My absolute favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a side of warm, crusty bread or some homemade garlic toast. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth.
Simple Side Salad: For a lighter meal, pair a bowl of this healthy chicken broccoli soup with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. It offers a lovely contrast in textures and flavors.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: You can’t go wrong with the classic combo of soup and a grilled cheese! A simple cheddar or Swiss grilled cheese makes this meal feel extra comforting and indulgent.

Nutritional Information for Chicken Broccoli Soup

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious chicken soup with broccoli. It’s a wholesome dish that balances protein, vegetables, and healthy fats beautifully.

Calories: Approximately 350-400
Fat: 18-22g
Saturated Fat: 9-11g
Protein: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 25-30g
Fiber: 4-6g
Sugar: 5-7g
Sodium: 600-800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of the chicken and the type of dairy alternative if used. For more information on general nutrition, you can refer to resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Broccoli Soup

One of the best things about this homemade chicken broccoli soup is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep. I love having leftovers ready for a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner. Storing and reheating it properly ensures it tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

Cool Completely: Always allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation in your storage containers, which can affect texture and lead to spoilage.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. Glass containers are great, but high-quality plastic ones work well too. Divide into individual portions if you plan on taking it for lunch.
Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It maintains its best quality within this timeframe.
Freezer Friendly (with caution): While not ideal due to the potatoes and sour cream, you can freeze this chicken and broccoli soup for up to 3 months. The texture might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit more watery.

Reheating Methods:

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. On the stovetop is my preferred method for the best texture. Gently warm the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. For more tips on reheating, check out this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Soup

Can I make chicken broccoli soup with leftover chicken?

Absolutely! This creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe is fantastic for using up leftover cooked chicken. Simply shred or dice about 2 cups of cooked chicken and add it during the last 10 minutes of simmering, just like in the recipe. It’s a perfect way to transform leftovers into a whole new meal.

What vegetables can I add to chicken broccoli soup?

This easy chicken broccoli soup is quite adaptable. Besides broccoli, carrots, celery, and potatoes, you can add peas, corn, green beans, or even some diced zucchini. Just be mindful of cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables towards the end so they don’t get mushy.

How do I make chicken broccoli soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy free chicken broccoli soup, swap the butter for olive oil or ghee, use a dairy-free sour cream alternative (like cashew or soy-based), and replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You might also need a little extra thickener, like blended cauliflower or a cornstarch slurry, if you omit the potatoes.

Is chicken broccoli soup healthy?

Yes, this healthy chicken broccoli soup is quite nutritious! It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber and vitamins from the broccoli and other vegetables, and healthy fats. The potato-based broth provides creaminess without heavy cream, making it a wholesome choice.

Variations of Chicken Broccoli Soup You Can Try

While this creamy chicken broccoli soup recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. It’s amazing how a few simple tweaks can create a whole new flavor profile! Here are a few ideas I’ve tried that you might enjoy.

Dairy-Free Chicken Broccoli Soup

Craving that creamy texture without the dairy? You can easily make this dairy free chicken broccoli soup! Swap the butter for olive oil or ghee. For the sour cream, a good quality cashew-based or soy-based alternative works wonders. Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy flavor. You might find you need a touch more thickener, like blended cauliflower or a cornstarch slurry, if you opt out of the potatoes.

Low-Carb or Keto Chicken Broccoli Soup

Looking for a lighter option? Transform this into a low carb chicken broccoli soup or keto-friendly meal. To reduce carbohydrates, skip the potatoes entirely. You can use pureed cauliflower or a bit of heavy cream (if not dairy-free) to achieve creaminess. Ensure you’re using a low-carb thickener if needed, and focus on loading up on extra broccoli and chicken. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty soup while sticking to your goals.

Chicken Noodle Broccoli Soup

For a heartier, more classic soup experience, try turning this into a chicken noodle broccoli soup! After the chicken and broccoli are cooked, stir in your favorite noodles – egg noodles, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta work well. Cook the noodles according to package directions directly in the soup, or boil them separately and add them just before serving. This adds a wonderful chewy texture that makes the soup even more substantial. You can find more noodle recipes here.