Introduction
Are you looking for a comforting, rich, and creamy soup that fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle? Look no further than this keto cream of chicken soup crockpot recipe! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, thanks to the convenience of the crockpot. You can toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it while you go about your day.
This creamy chicken soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling. With a blend of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy base, it’s a dish that everyone in your family will love. Plus, it’s low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for your keto meal plan.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot.
- Add the boneless chicken thighs to the crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well.
- If desired, add fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your keto cream of chicken soup!
Tips for the Best Keto Cream of Chicken Soup
To elevate your soup experience, consider these tips. First, using chicken thighs instead of breasts adds more flavor and moisture to the dish. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the shredded chicken back in. This will give you a creamier texture while still retaining some chunks for heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
This keto cream of chicken soup is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with various side dishes for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side salad loaded with leafy greens, cucumbers, and avocados. For a heartier option, serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, which will keep your meal low in carbs while adding extra fiber.
Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of crunch, some toasted low-carb bread or crackers on the side can be a delightful addition. Just ensure they align with your keto diet.
Storage and Reheating
This soup stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator. To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.
When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, heat gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a little extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to prepare this soup in advance, freezing is a great option. To freeze, allow the soup to cool and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
However, it’s important to note that the texture of the heavy cream may change slightly after freezing, so adding a little more cream or broth when reheating can help restore its creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are recommended for a juicier and more flavorful soup.
2. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
4. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy texture.
Conclusion
This keto cream of chicken soup crockpot recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your preferences, making it a staple in your low-carb meal rotation.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start cooking this delicious soup today. Your taste buds will thank you!
