Cosi Cheesy Chicken Recipe
A velvety smooth cheddar chicken soup with minced vegetables & croutons on top
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Ingredients
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Soup Base
Chicken & Cheese
Seasoning & Finish
Toppings
Method
Soup Base
- 1
Sweat the vegetables
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced carrot, and minced celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- 2
Make the roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and stir constantly to combine. Cook the flour with the vegetables for about 2–3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring to prevent browning.
- 3
Add liquids
Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Then slowly add the chicken stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to thicken slightly for 6–8 minutes.
- 4
Finish the base
Stir in the heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and keep the base at a gentle simmer while you prepare the cheese and chicken additions.
Chicken & Cheese
- 5
Add chicken
Add the shredded cooked chicken to the simmering soup base and stir to incorporate. Continue to simmer on low so the chicken heats through, about 5 minutes.
- 6
Melt cheeses
Remove the pot from heat or move to the lowest burner setting. Add the cream cheese cubes and stir until mostly melted and incorporated. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar, one handful at a time, stirring between additions until smooth and fully melted. If the soup seems too thick, return to low heat and whisk in up to 1/2 cup additional chicken stock or milk to reach desired consistency.
Seasoning & Finish
- 7
Season
Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If using, add the lemon juice a little at a time to brighten the flavor.
- 8
Simmer briefly
Keep the soup warm on the lowest heat for 3–5 minutes to meld flavors, stirring occasionally. Do not boil vigorously after adding the cheese to avoid graininess.
- 9
Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle each with the additional shredded cheddar, a handful of garlic croutons, and a scattering of chopped fresh parsley.
