Broccoli-Chicken Chowder

From: Me..
2 cups frozen broccoli florets
2 T butter
1/2 cup sliced celery
1 medium onion chopped
1/2 cup sliced carrots
1/2 t. dried thyme leaves
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 (10 1/2 oz.) can condensed chicken broth
2 cups diced cooked chicken
4 oz. cheddar cheese
garlic powder and pepper to taste


Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.  Add celery, carrot, onion and thyme; cook 5 to 7 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.


Stir in flour until well blended.  Add milk, broth, seasonings and broccoli; cook until mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly.


Stir in chicken, continue stirring until broccoli is tender.  Turn off the stove and add the cheese, stir until melted.


This is perfect for people who do not like the traditional clam chowder but want the thick cream soup.