Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a warm, creamy bowl of chicken soup. For those following a gluten-free and keto diet, this gluten free keto cream of chicken soup meal prep recipe is a game-changer. It is not only rich in flavor but also adheres to your dietary needs while being incredibly easy to prepare.
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to ensure you have healthy meals ready to go, especially during busy weeks. With this recipe, you can enjoy a hearty soup that is low in carbohydrates and free from gluten. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Next, add the diced chicken breasts to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the cauliflower florets, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Once the cauliflower is cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend only half.
- Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice (if using) and heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired, or store in meal prep containers for later use.
Why Meal Prep?
Meal prepping is an effective strategy for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially when following specific dietary guidelines like keto and gluten-free. Preparing your meals in advance saves time and helps you avoid unhealthy choices when hunger strikes.
This gluten free keto cream of chicken soup is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and can be easily reheated. Just portion it into containers, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready for any day of the week.
Variations and Add-Ins
While this recipe is scrumptiously satisfying on its own, there are several ways to customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– **Vegetable Boost**: Add in other low-carb vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
– **Herb Variations**: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil to change the soup’s profile.
– **Spicy Kick**: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage Tips
To store your gluten free keto cream of chicken soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure it cooks through thoroughly.
2. Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version.
3. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your taste.
4. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to include any low-carb veggies you enjoy, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
Conclusion
This gluten free keto cream of chicken soup meal prep recipe is a wholesome, comforting dish that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal prep rotation.
Not only does it provide nourishment, but it also makes life easier during hectic weeks. So gather your ingredients and start meal prepping this delightful soup today. Your future self will thank you! Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
