This creamy chicken broccoli soup is simple, nourishing, and ready in under 30 minutes. A comforting, family-friendly meal that brings everyone to the table on busy nights.
Prep all ingredients: chop broccoli, dice onion, mince garlic, slice carrots, and shred or chop chicken.
In a large soup pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrots for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and stir for another minute. Then, add chicken (cook if raw, stir to warm if cooked).
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add broccoli and simmer for 10 minutes until tender.
Reduce heat, stir in milk or half-and-half, and then cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika or nutmeg if using. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
To freeze: skip adding the dairy, freeze the base, and stir in milk and cheese when reheating. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness or a dash of hot sauce for heat.