Introduction
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that fits your low-carb lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place! This Keto Cream of Chicken Soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and satisfying. With its rich and creamy texture, this soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly evening.
Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply trying to reduce your carb intake, this recipe will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from cream, it’s the perfect comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with a few tablespoons of the hot broth until smooth. This step helps to avoid lumps in the soup.
- Stir the cream cheese mixture back into the pot along with the heavy cream. Mix well and allow the soup to heat through for another 5 minutes.
- If using, add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious keto cream of chicken soup!
Why This Recipe Works
This Keto Cream of Chicken Soup recipe combines simple ingredients that are packed with flavor. The chicken provides lean protein, while the heavy cream and cream cheese create a rich, velvety texture that is satisfying and filling. The use of chicken broth enhances the soup’s flavor without adding unnecessary carbs.
Additionally, this recipe is easily customizable. You can add your favorite low-carb vegetables, such as zucchini or cauliflower, to boost the nutritional value without compromising on taste. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day!
Tips for Making the Best Keto Cream of Chicken Soup
1. **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh chicken, herbs, and vegetables will elevate the flavors in this soup. Avoid using pre-packaged ingredients when possible.
2. **Adjust Consistency:** If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cream cheese or reduce the broth slightly during cooking. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth.
3. **Spice It Up:** Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick. This can add depth and warmth to the dish.
4. **Garnish Wisely:** Top your soup with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some low-carb bread for dipping. If you want to keep it strictly keto, consider serving it with almond flour crackers or zucchini fritters.
For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. The options are endless!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store it in portioned containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I freeze this soup?
While the soup can technically be frozen, the texture may change upon reheating due to the cream. If you plan to freeze it, consider leaving out the cream and adding it during reheating for the best results.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add a variety of low-carb vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose to maintain their crispness.
Conclusion
This quick weeknight dinner recipe for Keto Cream of Chicken Soup is a delicious solution for busy nights. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, you can enjoy it guilt-free while sticking to your low-carb lifestyle. So grab your ingredients and whip up a comforting bowl of this soup tonight!
