If you’re craving something cozy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying, this Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe is here to become your new favorite comfort meal. Imagine tender shredded chicken swimming in a creamy Alfredo-infused broth, punctuated by the fresh crunch of broccoli and perfectly cooked pasta. Each spoonful offers a delicious blend of silky, savory goodness with just the right hint of seasoning to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup promises warmth and indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe is surprisingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering its rich flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color. From butter that forms the base, to aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning that build layers of taste, every component works together beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory depth to the soup’s foundation.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings a balanced blend of herbs that enhances the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor without adding extra texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Reinforces the onion’s subtle sweetness.
- Dash nutmeg: Introduces a warm, slightly nutty spice that complements creamy dishes beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Acts as a thickening agent, giving your soup that perfect creamy consistency.
- 6 cups chicken stock: Forms the flavorful base of the soup, infusing it with savory goodness.
- 1.5 cups half and half: Adds creaminess and a subtle richness without overpowering the flavors.
- 8 ounces short pasta (trotolle, rotini, or penne): Provides satisfying texture and heartiness in every spoonful.
- 2 cups bite-size broccoli florets: Adds a fresh pop of green, a slight crunch, and essential nutrients.
- 4 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup, enhancing savory depth and creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Makes the soup protein-packed and irresistibly tender.
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Lifts the flavors with a subtle tangy sweetness that brightens the entire dish.
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight every flavor.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion along with a pinch of kosher salt and cracked black pepper, cooking for about 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This base sets the stage for those deep, comforting flavors we love.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of nutmeg. Let these mingle for about a minute, ensuring you frequently stir to keep the garlic from burning. This step builds an aromatic foundation that truly distinguishes this soup.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. This roux acts as the magic thickener, essential for giving your soup a creamy, velvety texture without heaviness.
Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquids
Pour in a few splashes of chicken stock to deglaze, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pot’s bottom. Then, add the rest of the chicken stock, half and half, pasta, and broccoli florets. Season with a couple pinches of salt and pepper, giving everything a good stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender and Creamy
Raise the heat just enough to bring your soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the temperature to low. Let it cook uncovered for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly al dente, and the broccoli softens just right, offering a wonderful textural contrast.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese, Chicken, and Vinegar
Once off the heat, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the broth. Add in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the splash of balsamic vinegar to brighten the flavors with a gentle tang. Give it a final taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup by topping it with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper. A few fresh parsley leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes add a pop of color and a hint of freshness or spice, depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots, perfect for dipping and soaking up every creamy, flavorful bite. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the rich soup nicely, balancing the meal with refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe in rustic bowls garnished with microgreens or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a gourmet touch. For family gatherings, presenting it in a large, pretty soup tureen invites everyone to dig in and share the comforting goodness together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some liquid and soften upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken stock or half and half if it seems too thick, and be patient—it will regain its creamy consistency and delicious warmth without the cheese separating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade chicken broth will add even more depth and richness to your Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned to keep the flavors balanced.
What type of pasta works best in this soup?
Short pasta like trotolle, rotini, or penne is ideal because it holds up well in the broth without becoming mushy. Avoid long pasta noodles that can become tangled or overly soft.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use dairy-free milk alternatives like cashew or oat milk combined with a dairy-free cheese to mimic the creamy Alfredo base. It won’t be exactly traditional, but still delicious!
Can I prepare this soup without broccoli?
Of course! If broccoli isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for other vegetables like cauliflower florets, spinach, or even peas to add color and nutrients without changing the heart of the Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe.
How do I make the soup thicker if it’s too thin?
If your soup isn’t as thick as you’d like, whisk together a tablespoon of flour with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry and stir it in while warming the soup gently. This will help achieve that creamy, luscious texture.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe is a total game-changer. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with fresh flavors that satisfy both your soul and your appetite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your cooking rotation. Grab your ingredients and dive into this bowl of creamy happiness—you won’t regret it!
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Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, tender broccoli florets, and al dente pasta in a rich, cheesy Alfredo base made with garlic, Italian seasonings, and Parmesan cheese, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy classic Alfredo flavors in a warming soup form.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- dash nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons flour
Liquid Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1.5 cups half and half
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Produce
- 2 cups bite size broccoli florets
Pasta & Protein
- 8 ounces short pasta (like trotolle, rotini, penne)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
Cheese & Seasoning
- 4 ounces freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt
- fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat to prepare the base of the soup.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced yellow onion along with a couple pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for 4 minutes while stirring frequently until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and a dash of nutmeg. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to release the aromas.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the soup later.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a few splashes of chicken stock and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, adding depth of flavor to the soup.
- Add Remaining Liquids and Veggies: Stir in the rest of the 6 cups chicken stock, 1.5 cups half and half, the pasta, and the broccoli florets. Add a couple more pinches of salt and pepper.
- Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 4-5 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 4 ounces of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy texture.
- Add Chicken and Vinegar: Stir in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to enhance flavor and add protein.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Serve the soup hot, topped with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese if preferred. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Alfredo Soup with Broccoli!
- Optional Feedback: If you loved this recipe, consider leaving a 5-star rating and review to share your experience.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated versions.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut, but leftover cooked chicken or turkey can also be used.
- If the soup thickens too much after standing, stir in additional chicken stock or water to loosen it.
- Adjust the pasta cooking time if using different shapes or sizes to avoid overcooking.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half and half with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
