Introduction
When it comes to family meals, finding something that pleases everyone can be a challenge. However, this healthy low carb chicken soup is a game-changer. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking to maintain a low-carb diet or simply want to offer your family a wholesome meal, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
This chicken soup is loaded with tender pieces of chicken, colorful vegetables, and a savory broth that warms the soul. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those essential nutrients without anyone noticing. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped celery, and diced carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- While the vegetables are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pot along with the chicken broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, add the chopped spinach or kale, and stir well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your healthy low carb chicken soup!
Why This Soup is Great for Families
This healthy low carb chicken soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of chicken and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great option for families looking to eat healthier. Additionally, it’s easy to customize based on your family’s preferences. You can swap out vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit different tastes.
Making this soup is a wonderful opportunity to involve your children in the kitchen. They can help with washing vegetables, stirring the pot, or even shredding the chicken. Cooking together fosters a love for healthy food and creates lasting family memories.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this healthy low carb chicken soup is that it stores well. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to keep things interesting. Here are a few ideas:
– **Add More Veggies:** Feel free to include other low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
– **Spice it Up:** If your family enjoys a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
– **Creamy Version:** For a creamy chicken soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.
– **Herb Swaps:** Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, basil, or dill to change the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great and will cut down on cooking time.
2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this healthy low carb chicken soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
This recipe is already dairy-free! Just avoid adding cream or cheese if you want to keep it that way.
Final Thoughts
Healthy low carb chicken soup is a fantastic choice for families wanting to enjoy a nourishing meal together. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile. With the right ingredients and a little time, you can create a comforting dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
So gather your family, put on your aprons, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delightful chicken soup that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
