This low carb chicken soup recipe is a comforting and nourishing dish with tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is not only satisfying but also fits seamlessly into a low carbohydrate lifestyle. It’s the ideal meal for those who crave warmth and heartiness without the extra carbs.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this low carb chicken soup for its rich flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of fresh herbs and spices brings the dish to life while keeping the carb count low, making it perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Additionally, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare — it can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day or a quick lunch option, this chicken soup is versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
To enhance the flavor of your low carb chicken soup, consider sautéing your onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the broth. This will bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the overall taste of the soup. For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can speed up the process significantly without sacrificing flavor. Lastly, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go — a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can make a big difference!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dry, tough meat. To avoid this, cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and no longer. Another pitfall is using too many starchy vegetables; stick to low-carb options like zucchini and spinach. Also, over-seasoning the soup can mask the natural flavors, so start with less and add more as necessary.
Make Ahead Tips
This low carb chicken soup is perfect for meal prep! You can chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days ahead. The chicken can also be cooked in advance and shredded for quicker assembly. Once made, the soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this soup to suit your tastes! For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or use vegetable broth and add tofu for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile. Additionally, if you enjoy creamier soups, consider blending a portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency.
How to Serve
Serve the finished low carb chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the flavors. For a cozy presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a side salad or a slice of low carb bread for a delightful meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your low carb chicken soup with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing herbal tea such as chamomile. For a side dish, consider a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts. If you’re craving something sweet afterward, a piece of dark chocolate or a low carb cheesecake can be the perfect ending to your meal.
How to Store
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, as it may thicken upon cooling. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large pot or Dutch oven to make this soup. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for chopping the vegetables. If you prefer, a slow cooker can also be used to prepare this soup for a hands-off approach. A blender may be used if you wish to create a creamier texture by pureeing some of the soup.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version of this recipe, simply swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth. To make it dairy-free, skip the cheese garnish and any cream additions. For nut-free options, ensure any broth or cream substitutes do not contain nuts. Always read labels carefully to accommodate any specific dietary restrictions.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall and winter, consider adding seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or kale. In spring and summer, you could use fresh peas or asparagus for a lighter twist. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also enhance the dish’s freshness based on the season.
Cost Breakdown
This low carb chicken soup is budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of around $2 to $3 per serving. To save further, opt for frozen vegetables and bulk-buy chicken. Substituting fresh herbs with dried can also reduce costs without compromising flavor.
Kitchen Hacks
To peel garlic quickly, crush the clove with the flat side of a knife — the skin will loosen and come off easily. For chopping onions without tears, chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting. Lastly, use a slow cooker for hands-off cooking; simply toss all the ingredients in and let it simmer all day.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! Just ensure it is fully cooked before shredding and adding to the soup.
- What can I substitute for chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth or bone broth for a different flavor.
- How long does it take to cook? The soup takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, depending on your prep speed.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Just be mindful of the carb count with starchy options like potatoes or corn.
How To Make low carb chicken soup recipe
Low Carb Chicken Soup
This low carb chicken soup recipe is a comforting and nourishing dish with tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is not only satisfying but also fits seamlessly into a low carbohydrate lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced celery, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.3. Stir in the chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 284Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 101mgSodium 1159mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 4gSugar 5gProtein 40g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb chicken soup is not only a delightful dish but also a wonderful way to nourish your body without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do, and it becomes a staple in your low carb cooking repertoire!