1-First Step: Mise en place and melt the butter. Gather all ingredients. In a large pot over low heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. This gentle heat prevents burning and builds flavor. Add 1/2 white onion, diced, and cook until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking. For keto or gluten-free, youre already set since flour comes later.

2-Second Step: Add garlic and flour roux. Stir in 1 clove garlic, minced, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick saute wakes up the flavors without bitterness. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a smooth paste. If making low-carb chicken cordon bleu soup recipe, skip flour here, the cream cheese will thicken naturally later.

3-Third Step: Whisk in liquids for the base. Slowly pour in 3 cups chicken broth while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Follow with 2 cups half-and-half, whisking until smooth and simmering gently. No boiling yet, keep it low to prevent curdling. If using half heavy cream and half milk, it works perfectly for a richer copycat restaurant chicken cordon bleu soup feel. Takes about 3-4 minutes.

4-Fourth Step: Incorporate cream cheese. Cut 1 (8 ounce) package softened cream cheese into chunks and stir until fully melted and combined, about 2 minutes. This creates the ultra-creamy broth thats the star of this shredded chicken cordon bleu soup with swiss. For dairy-free, a cashew-based cream cheese alternative keeps it smooth.

5-Fifth Step: Melt in cheese and proteins. Off heat, stir in 1 1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese until melted. Swiss is traditional for cordon bleu soup, but cheddar adds sharpness. Then add 2 cups cooked chicken and 1 cup diced ham. Heat through over low for 1-2 minutes, stirring. Rotisserie chicken shines here for ease. Season with black pepper if desired.

6-Final Step: Finishing touches and serving. Taste and adjust salt. Ladle into bowls, about 8 servings. Top with toasted panko, croutons, or fresh herbs. Serve hot with bread. For one-pot chicken cordon bleu soup recipe fans, this method minimizes cleanup.