Name: High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, cubed; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp red vinegar; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp pepper; ¾ cup full-fat unflavored Greek yogurt; ¼ cup dill, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tbsp grated cucumber (excess water squeezed out); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 pinch kosher salt

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting meal that packs a serious nutritional punch, this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with vibrant broccoli goodness, it delivers a delicious way to boost your protein intake without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep, this soup combines wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying dish that’s both nourishing and incredibly tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal bowl holds several pieces of raw, light pink chicken meat seasoned with black pepper and small yellow spices scattered on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, slightly touching the chicken chunks. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. The photo is bright and clear, showing the moist texture of the chicken pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things simple but powerful. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing the creamy texture, fresh vegetable flavor, and hearty protein boost that defines this soup.

Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, they bring bright green color and natural sweetness along with fiber and vitamins.
Sharp Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to add rich creaminess and depth with a tangy bite.
Chicken breast: Cooked and shredded, this is the star protein element that makes the soup fulfilling.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base without overpowering the other ingredients.
Onion and garlic: Provide aromatic depth and a savory backbone to every spoonful.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess with extra protein while keeping the soup light and luscious.
Flour and butter: Combine to make the roux that thickens the soup with a velvety texture.
Milk or cream: Enriches the soup and balances the sharpness of the cheese.
Salt, pepper, and nutmeg: Season perfectly to enhance natural flavors without overpowering.

How to Make High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Chicken

Start by chopping your broccoli into bite-sized florets to ensure they cook evenly. If using fresh broccoli, steam or boil them just until tender but still vibrant green—that snap of color means maximum flavor and nutrients. Meanwhile, cube or shred your cooked chicken breast so it’s ready to mix into the soup later. Don’t skip fresh chicken, as it adds that crucial protein punch to keep you full and energized.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Make the Roux

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. This step is your flavor foundation. Next, whisk in flour to create a roux—this thickens your soup and gives it that signature silky texture. Be sure to cook the roux gently for a couple of minutes to avoid tasting raw flour.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly add low-sodium chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring this to a gentle simmer, allowing the liquid to thicken slightly as it marries with the roux and the delicious aromatics you cooked in the previous step. This is where your soup base starts to shine and build complexity.

Step 4: Stir in Broccoli, Chicken, and Dairy

Add your steamed broccoli and cooked chicken to the pot. Then pour in milk or cream for richness, stirring gently. Remove the pot from heat before folding in your shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and a dollop of Greek yogurt. This off-heat melting is key to keep your cheese smooth and prevent clumping. The yogurt not only amps up the protein but also adds a subtle tangy creaminess that perfectly balances the cheese.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt, pepper, and a hint of freshly grated nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Once your soup is velvety, cheesy, and studded with tender broccoli and chicken bites, it’s ready to be ladled into bowls for comfort-food bliss.

How to Serve High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

The image shows three metal skewers placed side by side on a dark metal surface with a white marbled texture. Each skewer holds several pieces of grilled meat that are evenly spaced, with a mix of golden brown and dark char marks, giving a slightly crispy look. The meat pieces have a textured surface with some shiny juicy spots where the marinade or oil reflects the light. In the upper left corner, there is a white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce with visible green herbs and a drizzle of yellow oil on top. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

One of the joys of this soup is how easily it can be dressed up. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions for a mild onion bite and a splash of color. Adding a sprinkle of extra shredded Cheddar on top invites a melty surprise with each spoonful. For a touch of crunch, try toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a warm, crusty slice of whole-grain bread or buttery garlic toast, perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette complements the creamy richness beautifully, balancing your meal with fresh, refreshing textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this soup in mini bread bowls for an inviting rustic touch that doubles as an edible dish. For a light lunch, enjoy it chilled on warmer days, letting the flavors meld for a refreshing twist. You can also blend half the soup smooth and leave the rest chunky for a playful texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. To maintain the best texture, stir well before reheating, as thick soups tend to settle.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but avoid freezing if it contains too much dairy as texture can slightly change. Freeze in portions with air-tight lids and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat your soup slowly over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the cheese from sticking or clumping. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up, bringing it back to that perfectly creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use different cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is classic for the best melt and tang, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites can provide delicious variations. Just be mindful of how each cheese melts differently.

Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Just remember to reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the chicken, or add cooked beans or lentils for protein. It won’t be quite the same in protein count, but still comforting and tasty.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn’t on hand, sour cream or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute to add creaminess and a touch of tang, keeping the soup luscious and satisfying.

How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?

For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a touch more roux at the beginning. For a thinner consistency, stir in extra broth or milk gradually until it reaches your desired texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe a try because it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug for your soul and muscles alike. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but special enough to share with friends and family. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite—you deserve it.