Introduction
When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a quick and healthy recipe can be a challenge. Enter low carb chicken soup! This dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a busy evening. It’s an easy recipe that can be prepared in under an hour and is ideal for anyone looking to keep their carb intake low while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Low carb chicken soup is versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply aiming to eat healthier, this soup is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the chicken breasts to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 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 soup and add the fresh spinach or kale.
- Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the greens to wilt.
- Serve hot and enjoy your low carb chicken soup!
Why Choose Low Carb Chicken Soup?
Low carb chicken soup is a fantastic option for those who want a hearty meal without the carbs typically found in traditional soups. Chicken is a great source of protein, helping you stay full longer. Coupled with the vegetables, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for your dinner table.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in less than an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet healthy. The best part is that it’s a one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup time after dinner.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best features of this low carb chicken soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to customize your soup:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in other low carb vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Protein Boost: If you want to increase the protein content, consider adding chickpeas or white beans (although this will increase the carb count).
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is likely, as this recipe makes a generous amount), storing your low carb chicken soup is simple. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, simply pour the soup into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for a quick meal. Just be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Freezing Your Soup
This low carb chicken soup also freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe. Just add it in the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
Is this soup suitable for a ketogenic diet?
Yes! This low carb chicken soup is perfect for a ketogenic diet due to its low carbohydrate content and high protein from the chicken.
Can I add noodles or rice to this soup?
While traditional noodles or rice would increase the carb count, you can use alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice if you want a similar texture without the carbs.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or low carb bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Low carb chicken soup is not only a nutritious choice for a weeknight dinner but also a comforting one. This easy recipe allows for plenty of customization, ensuring it can cater to various taste preferences and dietary restrictions. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s a dish that the whole family will love.
Next time you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, remember this low carb chicken soup. It’s bound to warm your heart and nourish your body. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for your future meal planning! Enjoy!
