why make this recipe
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines delightful flavors with high protein content. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch. With the goodness of broccoli, chicken, and cheese, it provides a healthy dose of vitamins and protein to keep you energized throughout the day. Plus, it is easy and quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
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High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup blends tender broccoli, juicy shredded chicken, and sharp cheddar into a creamy, protein-rich bowl that’s quick, cozy, and weeknight-friendly.
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk (or a milk substitute)
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Instructions
1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add broccoli and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer about 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
3. Stir in shredded chicken and cheddar until cheese is melted.
4. Mix in milk and Greek yogurt; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Blend part or all of the soup for a smoother texture if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
Serving: top bowls with a little extra cheddar. Pair with crusty bread or a green salad; great served in a mug, too.
Storage: cool to room temp, then refrigerate in an airtight container 3–4 days or freeze up to 3 months (use freezer-safe containers).
Tips: use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor; add carrots or spinach for extra nutrients; for thicker texture, blend a portion and stir back in; a pinch of cayenne adds gentle heat.
Variation: make it vegetarian by omitting chicken and using vegetable broth; keep protein high by adding white beans or lentils. Try mozzarella, gouda, or a cheddar–Parmesan mix for a different flavor.
FAQs:
• Frozen broccoli? Yes—use thawed florets and adjust simmer time.
• Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese/yogurt.
• Spicier? Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar, High Protein, Chicken Soup, Weeknight Dinner, Comfort Food
how to make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or a milk substitute)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Add broccoli florets and chicken broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Stir in shredded chicken and cheese until melted.
- Mix in milk and Greek yogurt, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Blend soup for a smoother texture if desired, then serve warm.
how to serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve the soup warm with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for added flavor. You can also pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it in a bowl with a spoon, or let it cool a bit and sip it from a mug.
how to store High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To store the soup, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will be good for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for best results.
tips to make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- For a richer flavor, try using homemade chicken broth.
- You can add other vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrients.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste; a little cayenne pepper can add a nice kick!
variation (if any)
You can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. To keep the protein high, add beans or lentils. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free.
How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce to the soup for a spicier version. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
