Name: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 sweet onion, diced; ⅔ cup chopped carrots; ⅔ cup chopped celery; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 1½ cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1½ cups milk; 1 parmesan rind; 6 cups chicken stock; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 spritz fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe is absolutely your go-to. I love this recipe because it balances rich creaminess with the fresh bite of broccoli and tender chicken, making it perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a wholesome, satisfying soup. Stick with me — I’ll share all my tips so you nail this every time!

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Uses kitchen staples that you probably already have on hand.
Balanced Flavors: Creamy, savory, and bright with a squeeze of lemon to lift it all.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
Kid-Friendly Comfort: My family goes crazy for this — even my picky eaters ask for seconds!

A close-up shot shows a ladle filled with creamy chicken and broccoli soup held above a pot. The soup has a thick, creamy texture with visible chunks of light beige shredded chicken, bright green broccoli florets, and small orange carrot pieces mixed throughout the light cream-colored broth. The surface beneath the pot is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup, easy chicken broccoli soup, comforting soup recipes, hearty chicken broccoli dish, healthy creamy soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Each adds a layer of flavor or texture that makes this soup so satisfying. When you shop, look for fresh broccoli and good-quality chicken to really bring this to life.

Flat lay of bright green broccoli florets, shredded cooked chicken, diced sweet onion, chopped orange carrots, chopped celery stalks, peeled garlic cloves, a wedge of parmesan rind, and a fresh lemon half with a spritz of juice, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup, easy chicken broccoli soup, comforting soup recipes, hearty chicken broccoli dish, healthy creamy soup

Olive oil: A good base for sautéing veggies and adding that subtle richness.
Sweet onion: Adds a gentle sweetness that mellows out as it cooks.
Carrots: Give a hint of natural sweetness and a bit of texture.
Celery: Brings that classic aromatic flavor that deepens the soup’s profile.
Garlic cloves: Lots of garlic is key here — it boosts flavor without overpowering.
Kosher salt and pepper: To season everything just right.
Broccoli florets: The star veggie—fresh, green, and full of nutrients.
Parmesan rind: Here’s a little trick I discovered — it adds an amazing umami richness.
Cooked, shredded chicken: Perfect for protein that’s tender and easy to eat.
Chicken stock: The soup’s flavorful liquid; homemade or store-bought works.
Milk: Creates the creamy texture without heaviness.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup beautifully.
Fresh lemon juice: A quick spritz brightens all the creamy goodness perfectly.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love encouraging you to make this creamy chicken and broccoli soup recipe your own. Over time, you’ll find little twists that fit your family’s tastes or the season — don’t hesitate to experiment!

Add cheese: I sometimes stir in shredded sharp cheddar or gouda near the end for extra richness, and it’s a hit every time.
Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or oat milk instead of regular milk to keep it creamy and friendly to those avoiding dairy.
Spicy kick: When I want something a little more exciting, a pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way.
Use leftover turkey: Around the holidays, I swap chicken for turkey leftovers — trust me, it’s just as delicious.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics Until Soft and Fragrant

Start by heating your olive oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced sweet onion, chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Season generously with kosher salt and pepper — this layer of flavor is super important! Stir often and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the veggies soften and smell amazing, but don’t let them brown. This is the foundation of your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add Broccoli and Build Your Broth

Once the aromatics are soft, add in the broccoli florets. Let them cook together for another 5 minutes — this gets them tender but still vibrant green. Now, toss in the parmesan rind, shredded chicken, and pour in the chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. I usually simmer it for around 10 minutes so the flavors can mingle beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Milk and Flour to Thicken the Soup

While your soup is simmering, whisk together the milk and all-purpose flour in a shaker cup or measuring cup for about 30 seconds until completely smooth. This slurry is your secret weapon for a silky, creamy texture without lumps. Slowly stream it into the soup, stirring constantly. This helps prevent clumps and ensures even thickening as you continue to simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Season to Perfection

Let the soup simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes while stirring often. You’ll notice it thickening and becoming velvety. Don’t rush this step—it’s how you get that perfect creamy consistency. Before serving, taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, spritz fresh lemon juice in and give it a good stir—that little tang really brightens everything up!

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe

Use the Parmesan Rind: Don’t toss the rind! It adds depth and umami that can’t be beat, just remember to fish it out before serving.
Whisk Flour and Milk Thoroughly: Mixing them well before adding to soup prevents any gritty texture, which I learned the hard way once!
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: It should be tender but still have a bit of bite and bright color for the best texture and taste.
Use Shredded Cooked Chicken: Keep it tender and juicy by adding it late in the cooking process—overcooking can dry it out.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy soup, showing small green broccoli pieces, orange carrot bits, and tiny shreds of light-colored meat mixed in a thick light beige broth, all topped with a sprinkle of black pepper. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with two soft bread rolls nearby, one partially visible at the top right and another near the bottom right edge. The texture of the soup looks smooth yet chunky with visible small vegetable and meat pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup, easy chicken broccoli soup, comforting soup recipes, hearty chicken broccoli dish, healthy creamy soup

Garnishes

I love topping this soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives—it adds color and a pop of fresh flavor that complements the richness perfectly. Sometimes, I throw in a few crunchy croutons on top for a little texture contrast, especially when serving it for guests.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a warm crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last drop. Light salads with lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted veggies also work great to keep the meal balanced. My family’s favorite combo is this soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich—pure comfort food heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this soup in mini bread bowls—just hollow out small round loaves, ladle the soup inside, and garnish right before serving. It turns a simple dinner into something a bit more festive and fun. You could also swirl in a bit of pesto or drizzle with truffle oil to elevate it for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and because this soup actually tastes better the next day, it’s a win for busy lunches or dinners. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep the best texture.

Freezing

This creamy chicken and broccoli soup recipe freezes well, but I recommend freezing before adding the milk and flour slurry. When reheating, add fresh milk or cream to restore the creaminess. I’ve done this several times, especially when meal prepping for the week, and it saves so much time.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring often to prevent the milk from scorching or separating. If the soup has thickened too much, a splash of additional milk or broth will bring it back to that perfect creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works in a pinch and is convenient year-round. Just be mindful that it might make the soup a bit softer, so adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking. I usually add frozen broccoli a little later in the cooking process to preserve some texture.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can definitely make a vegetarian version by swapping the chicken stock for vegetable stock and omitting the chicken. Feel free to add white beans or tofu for extra protein. The parmesan rind still adds a wonderful umami note, but check if your parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use cream instead of milk?

Yes, using cream will make the soup richer and even more indulgent. If you do, I recommend reducing the flour slightly to keep the texture balanced. I’ve used half-and-half before too, for a middle ground that’s creamy but not too heavy.
How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 3-4 days. I always recommend reheating gently and adding a bit of milk or broth if it’s gotten too thick.
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking process significantly. It’s easier and safer to use cooked, shredded chicken here — it keeps the soup quick and ensures your chicken stays tender without drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s just so reliable, comforting, and easy to make any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a cozy solo dinner, this soup has got your back. Give it a try—I bet it’ll become one of your favorites, too. And once you nail the basic version, have fun making it your own with all those tasty variations!