Million Dollar Soup Velvet (Printable Version)

# What You Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2 large breasts)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 celery stalks, finely diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Dairy & Cheese

05 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
07 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
08 - 1 cup heavy cream

→ Broth & Liquids

09 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Pantry

10 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
11 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

→ Seasonings

12 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt (more to taste)
13 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
14 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
15 - 1/4 tsp ground mustard

→ Garnishes (optional)

16 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
17 - Crumbled cooked bacon

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
02 - Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
05 - Add shredded chicken, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
07 - Stir in heavy cream, cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Cook, stirring often, until cheeses are fully melted and the soup is creamy, about 5-7 minutes.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
09 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with chives and bacon if desired. Serve hot.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with evaporated milk.
02 - Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
03 - Add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach for extra depth.
04 - Pair with crusty bread or homemade biscuits.