If you’re a fan of comforting, hearty soups but need to stick to a low-carb or keto diet, then this Keto Cream of Chicken Soup is a game-changer. Imagine creamy, savory goodness packed with tender chicken, rich in flavor but without the carbs! It’s a satisfying dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick snack when you need something filling.
This keto-friendly soup isn’t just easy to make; it’s also customizable and can be made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re trying to follow a ketogenic diet or just enjoy low-carb meals, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Get ready to dive deep into the world of rich, velvety soups with a flavorful twist!
So, let’s jump right in and get cooking!
Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe
This Keto Cream of Chicken Soup is your new go-to for chilly evenings, meal prep, or when you need something easy but satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, and how quickly it transforms basic ingredients into something luxurious and creamy. The chicken is tender, the broth is rich and flavorful, and the creaminess comes from keto-friendly ingredients like heavy cream and cream cheese. You won’t miss a single thing about traditional versions of cream soups!
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious keto soup:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or thighs) – About 2 cups shredded after cooking. You can use thighs for extra flavor, or breasts for leaner protein.
- Chicken Broth – 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Look for a sugar-free or homemade version to keep it as keto-friendly as possible.
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup. This will give the soup its creamy, luxurious texture while keeping it in the keto category.
- Cream Cheese – 4 oz. Helps thicken the soup and adds a tangy richness.
- Butter – 2 tablespoons. Adds flavor and helps sauté the aromatics.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. For a burst of savory flavor that enhances the depth of the soup.
- Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon. Brings a mild onion flavor without needing fresh onions.
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon. To intensify that garlicky goodness.
- Salt & Pepper – To taste. Don’t skimp on seasoning; this soup benefits from proper seasoning.
- Fresh Herbs (optional) – A pinch of thyme, rosemary, or parsley for garnish and added aroma.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a cozy bowl of keto goodness:
-
Cook The Chicken
- Start by cooking your chicken breasts (or thighs). You can cook them however you like-either bake them in the oven, pan-sear, or cook them in a slow cooker.
- If you want to save time, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces once cooked.
-
Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Don’t let it burn, just enough to release that beautiful garlicky aroma.
-
Make The Soup Base
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
-
Cream It Up
- Add the 1 cup of heavy cream to the pot, followed by the 4 oz of cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated, creating that smooth, creamy texture.
-
Add The Chicken
- Add your shredded chicken to the soup. Stir it in and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the soup is thickened and the flavors are fully combined.
-
Adjust Seasoning
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference, especially with a creamy dish like this!
-
Garnish & Serve
- Once everything is perfectly combined, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in delivering that creamy, comforting texture and flavor without the carbs. Let’s break them down:
- Chicken Breast/Thighs: The chicken provides a lean protein source, which is great for building muscle and maintaining fullness. Using chicken thighs offers a slightly richer flavor, but both options are perfect for a keto diet.
- Chicken Broth: It serves as the base of the soup, providing moisture, flavor, and a little richness without adding significant carbs. Low-sodium broth is always a good idea so you can control the salt level.
- Heavy Cream: The heavy cream is the key to giving this soup its decadent creaminess. Since it’s low in carbs, it’s the ideal option for a keto diet, providing the richness without spiking blood sugar.
- Cream Cheese: It thickens the soup and adds an extra layer of tangy creaminess. You can use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Butter: A little butter goes a long way in adding richness to the soup. It’s a great fat source that fits perfectly into the keto way of eating.
- Garlic & Spices: Garlic adds that familiar, savory flavor that elevates any soup, and the spices-like onion powder and garlic powder-bring in an extra depth without using fresh ingredients that may have hidden carbs.
Expert Tips
If you’re looking to take this keto cream of chicken soup to the next level, here are some expert tips that will make sure it turns out perfect every time:
- Use Homemade Chicken Broth: If you have the time, homemade chicken broth can elevate the soup flavor. It also allows you to control the seasoning and ensure there are no hidden sugars or additives.
- Blend for Extra Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup at the end (or even blend it in a regular blender). This will give you a velvety, silky base.
- Add Veggies: If you want to sneak in some more vegetables, feel free to add cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach. They’ll blend in perfectly without disturbing the keto-friendly nature of the soup.
- Top with Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or parmesan on top for extra flavor and richness. It’s like adding a cheesy, melty touch to your soup.
- Low-Sodium Broth: Using a low-sodium chicken broth helps you control the salt level in your soup and lets the natural flavors shine.
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is perfect as-is, you can always make it your own by trying these variations:
- Add Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds an extra layer of smoky flavor and a crunchy texture. It’s a keto favorite and can really amp up the richness.
- Swap Chicken for Turkey: If you have leftover turkey, it works wonderfully in this recipe as a replacement for chicken.
- Spicy Twist: Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring a spicy kick to your soup.
- Cheesy Keto Version: Add a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the soup for a cheesy, gooey consistency. Perfect if you love cheese as much as you love keto!
Final Words
This Keto Cream of Chicken Soup is one of those recipes you’ll return to again and again. It’s creamy, comforting, and filling while still sticking to your low-carb or keto goals. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, so feel free to play around with it to suit your taste.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light but satisfying or you want a hearty meal to keep you warm and full, this recipe fits the bill. With rich chicken, smooth cream, and savory spices, it’s a soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients For A Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients typically include chicken breast or thighs, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic, onion, and seasoning such as salt, pepper, and thyme. For a lower-carb version, you can use cauliflower or zucchini as a base for added thickness.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts In A Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They provide more flavor and are slightly higher in fat, which makes them perfect for the keto diet. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the soup.
Can I Make A Dairy-free Version Of Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by replacing the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use dairy-free butter or olive oil to replace the butter.
What Can I Use As A Thickening Agent Instead Of Flour In A Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
You can use xanthan gum, guar gum, or psyllium husk as low-carb thickening agents. Another option is to blend cauliflower or zucchini to create a creamy texture without adding any flour.
Can I Use Bone Broth In A Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup Recipe?
Yes, bone broth is an excellent option for adding extra nutrients and flavor to your keto cream of chicken soup. It will also increase the collagen content, which is beneficial for joints and skin health.
How Long Does It Take To Make Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
The cooking time for keto cream of chicken soup is generally around 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, it can be ready in 20-30 minutes, with the bulk of the time spent simmering the soup to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I Freeze Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
Yes, keto cream of chicken soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, it’s best to do so on the stove over low heat to avoid separating the cream. Stir well while reheating.
Is Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup Suitable For Meal Prepping?
Yes, keto cream of chicken soup is perfect for meal prepping. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, and it can be easily reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.
What Can I Serve With Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
Keto-friendly options to serve with cream of chicken soup include a side salad, roasted vegetables, or keto bread. You could also pair it with a small serving of cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
Can I Add Vegetables To My Keto Cream Of Chicken Soup?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini is a great way to incorporate more fiber and nutrients into your keto cream of chicken soup. Just ensure the vegetables are low in carbs to keep it keto-friendly.