I remember those busy weeknights when I craved something warm and soothing but didn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. That’s how this creamy chicken broccoli soup became my go-to comfort meal, ready in about 40 minutes and packed with cozy flavors. This chicken broccoli soup recipe is simple, satisfying, and just right for those hectic evenings when you want dinner without stress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Soup Recipe
- Incredibly creamy without complicated steps or heavy cream, making it lighter yet rich.
- Packed with deep, savory flavors thanks to a carefully crafted base of sautéed vegetables and herbs.
- Super quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but you want a nourishing meal.
- Uses rotisserie chicken as a shortcut to save time without sacrificing taste or texture.
The Secret to a Deep Flavor Base
Building flavor from the ground up is the real magic behind this chicken broccoli soup. The classic mirepoix—a mix of onion, carrots, and celery gently sautéed until soft and just beginning to brown. This process unlocks natural sugars and adds a rich, savory depth that forms the backbone of the soup’s comforting taste. Skipping this step would mean missing out on that warm, homey flavor that makes this soup so memorable. A solid understanding of how to build a flavor base can elevate many dishes.
Key Ingredients Needed
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and finely chopped)
- 2 celery ribs (finely chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp dried mixed herbs
- 1 tsp chilli flakes/red pepper flakes (optional)
- 5 cups broccoli (stems removed and finely chopped)
- 6 cups chicken broth (home-made or good quality store-bought)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 2 cups shredded chicken (I used rotisserie chicken)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Lemon juice (to taste)
These ingredients work together wonderfully: the mirepoix provides a flavorful base, while broccoli adds freshness and texture. The cornstarch slurry is a quick, easy, and gluten-free way to thicken the soup without the fuss of making a traditional butter-and-flour roux. It keeps the soup silky and smooth, perfect for a comforting bowl at the end of the day.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
| Ingredient | Substitution Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | Half-and-half or Heavy Cream | For an even richer, more decadent soup. |
| Dried Herbs | Fresh Thyme & Parsley | Use 1 tablespoon fresh herbs per 1 teaspoon dried. |
| Shredded Chicken | Leftover Turkey | A great way to use holiday leftovers. |
| Cornstarch | Arrowroot Starch | Gluten-free alternative that works similarly. |
How to Make an Extra Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Soup
For a cheesy twist, sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are excellent choices because they melt smoothly and add a delicious depth. To avoid graininess or curdling, remove the pot from heat before stirring in shredded cheese handful by handful, blending until perfectly smooth.
How to Make a Keto-Friendly Chicken Broccoli Soup
For a low-carb version, swap the milk for heavy cream and reduce or omit the carrots since they add carbs. Replace the cornstarch slurry with about 1 cup of puréed steamed cauliflower or a pinch of xanthan gum to thicken. This keeps the soup creamy and keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Chicken Broccoli Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Sauté the onion, celery, carrot, and broccoli stalks in a splash of oil until soft and fragrant and just starting to brown; this takes around 10 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs
Add the garlic, bay leaf, and dried mixed herbs; sauté for another minute before adding the chicken broth, milk, and cornstarch slurry.
Step 3: Simmer with Broccoli Florets and Chicken
Bring to a simmer, then add the broccoli florets and shredded chicken. If you’re looking for other chicken soup ideas, you might enjoy our The Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe.
Step 4: Cook and Season
Allow to cook for 15 minutes, then season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
Step 5: Serve
Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Soup Every Time
- For the Creamiest Texture: Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
- Preventing Mushy Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets toward the end of cooking so they stay tender-crisp and retain their vibrant green color.
- The Chicken Debate (Rotisserie vs. Raw): Using rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver and adds great flavor. Alternatively, poach two raw chicken breasts directly in the broth at the start for about 20-25 minutes, then shred them before adding. For a different take on chicken soup, consider this The Ultimate Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Appliance Variations: Crock Pot & Instant Pot Instructions
- For the Crock Pot: Add everything except the broccoli florets, milk, and cornstarch slurry to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. In the last 30 minutes, stir in the broccoli, milk, and slurry, then finish cooking.
- For the Instant Pot: Use the ‘Sauté’ function to cook the vegetables. Add broth and chicken, then pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes. Perform a quick release, then turn on ‘Sauté’ again and stir in the broccoli, milk, and cornstarch slurry until heated through.
What to Serve with Your Soup
- Crusty bread for dipping to soak up every creamy drop.
- A simple side salad for a fresh, crisp contrast.
- Garlic bread to add a flavorful, aromatic touch.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freezing this soup is not recommended because the dairy base will separate and become grainy when reheated. This separation happens because frozen milk proteins break down and affect the soup’s creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did my chicken broccoli soup get grainy or curdle?
It’s usually caused by adding cheese or cold milk directly to boiling soup, which makes the dairy break. To avoid this, temper the dairy by slowly stirring it in off the heat or reduce the temperature before adding.
How can I make my soup thicker or thinner?
To thicken, add more cornstarch slurry a little at a time. To thin it out, stir in a splash more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Is this chicken broccoli soup recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written it is gluten-free because it uses cornstarch as a thickener. Just double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s certified gluten-free.
This chicken broccoli soup is a real winner in my kitchen, easy, comforting, and full of flavor without the fuss. If you give it a try, I’d absolutely love to know what you think! Please leave a comment and a rating below, and don’t forget to share a photo of your cozy soup bowl!
Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more recipes @aisharecipes
Chicken Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and broccoli stalks in oil until soft and fragrant, about 10 minutes.
- Add garlic, bay leaf, and herbs; sauté for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and cornflour mixture; bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli florets and shredded chicken; cook for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
