When you’re craving something warm, cozy, and comforting—but still want to stay on track with your health goals—this Creamy Broccoli & Cheese Soup with Chicken is the way to go. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and can be made with either Greek yogurt or whipped cottage cheese, depending on what you have on hand.
Both versions are delicious, satisfying, and creamy without heavy cream or flour-based roux. This recipe is high in protein, low in calories, and perfect for meal prep or a nourishing lunch.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 3 cups chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or ½ cup whipped cottage cheese
- ½ cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp Dijon mustard, a pinch of nutmeg, or a strip of pre-cooked bacon, crumbled – makes it extra decadent and usually only adds about 30 calories!
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Cook the broccoli: Add broccoli and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches) to blend the soup to your desired consistency. You can keep it a little chunky or go totally smooth.
- Add your creamy base:
- Stir in Greek yogurt or whipped cottage cheese—both add creaminess and a boost of protein.
- If using whipped cottage cheese, make sure it’s blended until smooth before adding.
- Add protein & cheese: Stir in the cooked chicken and shredded cheddar (if using). Let everything heat through and melt together.
- Taste and adjust: Add salt, pepper, and any flavor boosts like mustard, nutmeg or crisp bacon.
🥣 Why You’ll Love It:
- High Protein: The Greek yogurt or cottage cheese adds protein without heaviness.
- Flexible & Filling: Use whichever creamy base you have, and load it up with extra chicken or veggies.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for easy, comforting meals all week.
- Volume-Friendly: Thick, cozy soup that fills you up without weighing you down.