Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup: The Creamy Classic That Does It All

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the kind of comfort food that never misses. Creamy, cheesy, rich in flavor, and packed with protein and veggies, it’s the perfect one-pot meal whether you’re curled up on a cold evening or looking for a fast, filling lunch.

This beloved soup combines tender shredded chicken, nutrient-packed broccoli florets, and melty sharp cheddar cheese in a velvety, satisfying broth. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make it at home—with step-by-step instructions, smart shortcuts, and healthier tweaks. You’ll learn the secret ingredient that makes this soup stand out, how to keep the texture creamy without curdling, and why it’s not always vegetarian (even when it seems like it should be).

We’ll also tackle your top questions—like whether broccoli cheddar soup is healthy, how to make it with chicken, and what makes Panera’s version so crave-worthy.

👉 Looking for more comfort food like this? Don’t miss our soups and one-pot meals for easy, hearty recipes the whole family will love.

Why Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Is the Ultimate Comfort Bowl

What Makes It So Popular?

Few soups check all the boxes like chicken broccoli cheddar soup does. It’s:

• Rich and cheesy, but not too heavy
• Packed with protein and fiber from chicken and broccoli
• Kid-friendly, yet sophisticated enough for adults
• Quick to make, especially with pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken
• Customizable for different diets and flavors

This soup hits the sweet spot between indulgence and nutrition. You get the warmth and depth of a creamy soup, the comfort of melted cheddar, and the bonus of greens—all in one bowl.

If you’re into hearty soup recipes, you might also love our crack chicken noodle soup—a fan-favorite that’s just as creamy and comforting.

Where It Originated & Why It Endures

While broccoli cheese soup gained popularity in the U.S. in the late 20th century, it was brands like Panera Bread (formerly St. Louis Bread Company) that made it a modern menu mainstay. When home cooks realized how easy it was to recreate, versions with added chicken quickly followed.

Why does it endure? Because it’s simple, satisfying, and nostalgic—something many people grew up eating. But homemade versions taste even better because you control the ingredients and customize it to your taste.

Core Ingredients and Their Roles

Making a delicious Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup starts with just a few simple ingredients—but each one has a job to do. Whether you’re prepping a pot for cozy weeknights or cooking ahead for meal prep, knowing the role of each ingredient helps you get the flavor and texture just right.

Chicken: Types to Use and Cooking Tips

The chicken adds protein, richness, and bulk to the soup—making it more of a complete meal than a side dish.

🐓 Best Chicken Options:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken – super convenient and already full of flavor
• Cooked chicken breasts or thighs – diced or shredded
• Leftover roasted or grilled chicken – for added depth

🔥 Cooking Tips:

• If using raw chicken, cook it separately and shred before adding to the soup.
• For maximum flavor, season the chicken with salt, garlic, and paprika while cooking.
• Avoid overcooking or reheating the chicken too long in the soup—it can get dry or stringy.

Broccoli: Fresh vs Frozen and How to Prep It

Broccoli brings color, texture, and a slight earthy bite that balances the richness of the cheese and cream.

🥦 Fresh Broccoli:

• Cut into small florets for quicker cooking
• Steam or blanch briefly before adding for vibrant color and texture

🧊 Frozen Broccoli:

• Works great when you’re short on prep time
• Use steam-in-bag broccoli or defrost first to prevent extra water in the soup

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp vs Mild, and Melting Tips

Cheddar is the soul of this soup. It adds flavor, creaminess, and that luscious cheesy pull.

🧀 Which to Choose?

• Sharp cheddar – stronger, tangier flavor
• Mild cheddar – smoother and kid-friendly
• White cheddar – great if you want a cleaner, more elegant look

✅ Melting Tips:

• Always shred your cheese fresh—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting
• Add cheese off the heat to avoid curdling
• Stir slowly and gently for the creamiest finish

🧠 Bonus: A little cream cheese or shredded gouda can be added for extra smoothness!

Popular Variations and Creative Additions

Once you master the base, it’s easy to upgrade your soup with fun extras. These ingredients don’t just taste great—they also improve texture and make the dish more satisfying.

🧄 Add-Ins to Try:

• Sautéed onions or leeks – for a sweeter, deeper soup base
• Carrots – finely shredded or diced for added color and sweetness
• Cauliflower – mix in with broccoli for a lighter bite
• Cream cheese or sour cream – for ultra-creamy richness
• Hot sauce or red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick

🥣 Thickening the Soup Naturally:

• Blend a portion of the soup with the broccoli to thicken
• Add mashed potatoes or cauliflower puree instead of flour or cornstarch
• Use heavy cream sparingly for a thicker texture without making it greasy

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Step-by-Step

This easy homemade Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe comes together in one pot and under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or using a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot, you’ll get a thick, cheesy soup with tender chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and rich flavor in every bite.

Tools and Ingredients Checklist

🧰 Tools You’ll Need:

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (or Instant Pot)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk and ladle
• Cheese grater (avoid pre-shredded cheese)

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large carrot, shredded (optional)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and white or black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)

Cooking Instructions (Stovetop + Instant Pot)

🍲 Stovetop Method:

1. Sauté the base
   In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
2. Add flour to thicken
   Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a roux (paste). Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
3. Add milk and cream
   Pour in milk and cream. Stir constantly until thickened—about 4–6 minutes.
4. Add broccoli, carrots, and chicken
   Stir in broccoli, shredded carrots (if using), and cooked chicken. Let simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
5. Add cheese and finish
   Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar slowly until melted. Add nutmeg, mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and enjoy!
   Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese, croutons, or crispy bacon if desired.

⚡ Instant Pot Method:

1. Set to Sauté mode and cook butter, onions, and garlic as above.
2. Stir in flour, then add broth, milk, cream, broccoli, carrots, and chicken.
3. Lock lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 3 minutes.
4. Quick-release, stir in cheese off heat. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Is Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthy?

At first glance, Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup might seem too rich to be healthy—but the truth depends on how you make it. This dish can be both indulgent and nutritious, especially when prepared with the right ingredients and balance.

For a deep dive into how dairy, chicken, and broccoli fit into a healthy diet, consult Healthline’s balanced meal guidelines.

Nutritional Breakdown

Let’s take a quick look at a typical serving (about 1½ cups) of homemade chicken broccoli cheddar soup made with whole milk, cream, and sharp cheddar:

Nutrient	Amount (approx.)
Calories	300–350 kcal
Protein	20–25 g
Fat	18–22 g
Saturated Fat	9–11 g
Carbs	10–15 g
Fiber	2–3 g
Sodium	600–800 mg

🔍 How to Make Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Healthier?

• High protein from chicken and cheese
• Vitamins and fiber from broccoli and carrots
• Calcium from dairy
• Filling and satisfying, reducing the urge to snack later

📉 What to watch for?

• Saturated fat from heavy cream and cheese
• Sodium (especially if using store-bought broth or processed cheese)
• Caloric content from butter, cream, or large portions

How to Make It Lighter

You don’t have to give up creamy texture to make this soup a little healthier. These swaps keep the comfort but cut the heaviness:

💡 Lighter Ingredient Swaps:

• Use 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk or cream
• Swap part of the cheddar for reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast
• Replace butter with olive oil
• Add more broccoli and carrots for fiber and bulk
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and add your own salt to taste
• Add 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt at the end for a protein boost and creamy texture

✅ Smart Portion Control:

Serve it with a light salad or whole-grain toast to round out the meal without doubling up on richness.

Common Substitutions and Dietary Options

Making Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free, keto, or vegetarian is easy with just a few swaps.

How to Make It Gluten-Free, Keto, or Vegetarian

🌾 Gluten-Free Version:

Traditional recipes often use flour as a thickener—but that’s easy to replace.

Try these instead:

• Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water)
• Arrowroot powder (great for paleo/gluten-free diets)
• Blend a portion of the soup to naturally thicken without flour

✅ Be sure to use a certified gluten-free broth and double-check cheese labels for added flour or fillers.

🥩 Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version:

This soup can be keto with just a few smart swaps.

Use:

• Heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk instead of milk
• No flour at all or thicken slightly with extra cheese and pureed broccoli
• Skip the carrots (they’re higher in sugar) and add more leafy greens or cauliflower

💡 One serving made with chicken, broccoli, heavy cream, and cheddar can contain less than 8g of net carbs!

🥕 Vegetarian Version:

The base soup (without chicken) is already veggie-rich, but not always fully vegetarian—especially if made with chicken broth.

To make it vegetarian:

• Omit the chicken
• Use vegetable broth
• Boost protein with white beans, chickpeas, or tofu crumbles
• Add extra broccoli, potatoes, or spinach for heartiness

✅ Tip: Use smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to bring that savory, umami flavor without meat.

Dairy-Free and Low-Sodium Options

🥥 Dairy-Free Substitutes:

Yes, you can still enjoy creamy broccoli soup without dairy!

Use:

• Unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk for the base
• Dairy-free cheddar shreds (look for meltable brands like Violife or Daiya)
• A touch of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor

✅ Add 1 tsp of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the dairy-free version

Serving Ideas & What to Eat with It

Once your pot of Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready, it’s time to round out the meal with a few delicious pairings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping lunch for the week, or making dinner for two, the right sides and toppings can take your soup experience to the next level.

Best Bread, Salads, and Side Pairings

🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast

A warm loaf of crusty sourdough or garlic toast is the classic companion for creamy soup. Use it to soak up every last drop of cheddar goodness.

🥗 Simple Green Salad

A light salad brings freshness and balance to the rich, creamy base of the soup. Keep it simple:

• Mixed greens or spinach
• Cherry tomatoes
• Red onions
• Balsamic or lemon vinaigrette

🍗 Grilled Chicken or Rotisserie on the Side

If you’re making the soup vegetarian or want a bigger protein punch, serve sliced grilled chicken on the side or even on top as a garnish.

Meal Prep, Reheating, and Freezing Tips

📦 How to Store It

• Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days
• Soup may thicken in the fridge—just stir in a splash of broth or milk before reheating

❄️ Freezing Tips

• Let the soup cool completely
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags (leave room for expansion)
• Freeze for up to 3 months

🔁 Meal Prep Idea

• Divide into 1-cup containers with side salad or bread for easy grab-and-go lunches
• Use it as a base for a creamy pasta sauce or baked potato topping later in the week

Why Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Isn’t Always Vegetarian

It’s easy to assume that a bowl of chicken broccoli cheddar soup is vegetarian—after all, it’s filled with cheese and vegetables, right? Not quite. If you’re trying to avoid animal products (besides dairy), there are a few hidden ingredients that can turn your soup into a non-vegetarian dish.

FAQ-Based Answer: Hidden Animal-Based Ingredients

Even if a version of the soup doesn’t include visible chunks of chicken, it may still not be vegetarian due to these ingredients:

🧪 Common Non-Vegetarian Ingredients:

• Chicken broth or stock: Used as the base for flavor
• Gelatin or animal-derived thickeners in processed cheese or cream-based soup bases
• Worcestershire sauce (contains anchovies), used in some versions for umami depth
• Bacon fat or meat drippings: Sometimes used as the sauté base instead of butter or oil

How to Make It Fully Vegetarian or Vegan

If you’re cooking at home and want to make your Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup meat-free, it’s super easy with just a few simple swaps:

✅ Vegetarian Version:

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth
• Skip the chicken and add more broccoli, carrots, or potatoes
• Boost protein with white beans or tofu crumbles

🌱 Vegan Version:

• Use plant-based milk like almond or coconut
• Swap cheddar for vegan cheese (shreds that melt well)
• Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy
• Use vegan butter or olive oil as your fat base

FAQs

What is the secret ingredient in Chicken broccoli cheddar soup?

The “secret” often lies in small but powerful additions like Dijon mustard, nutmeg, or white pepper. These ingredients subtly boost the sharpness of the cheddar and add complexity without overpowering the dish. Just a teaspoon of Dijon or a pinch of nutmeg can make the soup taste like it came from a restaurant.

Is Chicken broccoli cheddar soup good or bad for you?

It depends on how it’s made. Traditional recipes can be high in fat and sodium, but when made at home, Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be both nutritious and satisfying. It’s rich in protein (from chicken and cheese), fiber (from broccoli and carrots), and calcium. Lighten it up with low-fat dairy, more veggies, and homemade broth to keep it on the healthier side.

Can you put chicken in broccoli cheddar soup?

Absolutely! Adding cooked, shredded chicken transforms classic broccoli cheddar soup into a full meal. It boosts the protein content, makes the dish more filling, and pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy base. Use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even poached breast for best results.

Why isn’t Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup always vegetarian?

Even versions without visible meat often use chicken broth, making them unsuitable for vegetarians. Some processed cheeses or soup bases may also contain gelatin or animal-derived additives. To make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and check that your cheese is rennet-free.

💡 Want to go vegan? Swap dairy with plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and add nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

Why We Keep Coming Back to Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup

There’s a reason Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup has earned a permanent spot in home kitchens and restaurant menus across the country. This Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe combines the best of all worlds—it’s hearty, creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed. From busy weeknights to Sunday meal prep, Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup makes comfort food convenient and customizable.

Homemade Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup gives you full control over every ingredient. You decide how much cheese, what type of chicken, whether to add carrots or cauliflower, and how creamy you want your base. That flexibility is part of what makes Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup a family favorite.

The best part? You can prep Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup in advance, freeze it for later, or double the recipe to serve a crowd. Serve it with garlic toast, a green salad, or enjoy it on its own. Either way, Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup always hits the spot.

Conclusion: Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Comfort in Every Spoonful

Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup brings everything you love about comfort food into one cozy bowl—rich cheddar cheese, tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and just the right blend of seasonings. Whether you’re craving something creamy, making a quick weeknight dinner, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this soup delivers on flavor, flexibility, and feel-good satisfaction.

Now that you’ve got the steps, the secret ingredients, and all the variations, it’s time to bring it to your kitchen. One pot, under 40 minutes, and a whole lot of comfort.

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