Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup

I found this recipe somewhere on the internet and have had it for many years. The woman who posted this said that her son worked at the Diamond Run Golf Club (I have no idea where that is) and that when he made this, he couldn't make enough of it. I have revised the recipe somewhat because the original post was for 20 servings, and had no herbs/spices listed. I have included seasonings that are ones that I have enjoyed in this easy soup.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 6 1⁄2 cups chicken broth
• 1 3⁄4 cups heavy cream
• 1 1⁄2 cups ham, diced
• 1⁄2 cup swiss cheese, diced or 1⁄2 cup swiss cheese, grated
• 1 1⁄2 cups chicken, diced (approximately 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts)
• 1⁄2 cup onion, diced
• 1⁄2 cup celery, diced
•  salt, to taste
•  white pepper or  fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons tarragon (optional)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon basil (optional)
• 2  tablespoons cornstarch
• 4  tablespoons water

Directions

1. Saute the chicken cubes in a little oil until they are lightly browned.
2. In large stock pot place broth, ham, chicken, celery, onion, and bring to boil.
3. In medium pot place heavy cream and swiss cheese; heat until cheese is melted.
4. Add cheese mixture to the large pot and add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix cornstarch with water. Add about half of it to the soup to thicken it, then add more until the consistency is what you want.
6. Bring to a boil; then serve.
7. Garnish with additional grated Swiss cheese, if desired.