Introduction
Achieving a nutritional balance while adhering to a low-carb diet can sometimes be challenging. It’s not always easy to find tasty and healthy options, especially when it comes to comforting dishes like soup. Keto Chicken Soup is the perfect remedy for your cravings while still catering to your low-carb lifestyle. This nourishing soup combines a range of delicious ingredients that are packed with flavor and nutrition. Read on as we guide you through this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
To create Keto Chicken Soup, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 Tbsp olive oil or grass-fed butter for cooking
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (or any desired chicken pieces)
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped onions
– 1 cup of celery stalks, diced
– 1 cup of carrots, diced
– 1 cup of fresh or frozen green beans
– 6 cups of bone broth (or low-carb chicken stock)
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
– 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Cooked rice noodles or cauliflower rice for serving
Directions
To begin preparing your Keto Chicken Soup, follow these steps:
1. Preheat a large stockpot over medium heat and add the olive oil (or butter). Once heated, cook the chicken thighs until they are well-browned on all sides. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same pot, lower the heat slightly, and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes aromatic but not burnt.
3. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened slightly.
4. Stir in the green beans, bone broth (or chicken stock), bay leaf, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to a simmer.
5. Once the soup has reached its desired consistency and flavors have melded together, return the cooked chicken to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Let it cook until the chicken is fully heated through (about 10-15 minutes).
6. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. If you want a thicker broth, stir in some cornstarch dissolved in water.
7. Remove the bay leaf before serving. You may also opt to add cooked rice noodles or cauliflower rice for additional texture if desired.
8. Ladle into individual bowls and garnish with more fresh parsley as desired. Serve hot and enjoy your nourishing and delicious Keto Chicken Soup!
Nutritional Benefits
Keto Chicken Soup offers several benefits for those on a low-carb diet or just looking to eat healthier:
1. Low carbohydrate content – With minimal carbs in its ingredients, this recipe is an excellent choice for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.
2. Nutrient-dense and filling ingredients – The combination of chicken, vegetables, bone broth, and herbs makes it both nutritionally dense and satisfying to enjoy.
3. Supports gut health – Bone broth contains gelatin, collagen, and other amino acids which are beneficial for the gut microbiome. It also provides a base rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
4. Immune-boosting properties – The soup’s ingredients contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help support your immune system.
5. Versatile – You can customize the recipe by using different types of chicken or even adding additional vegetables to suit your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Keto Chicken Soup is a hearty and nutritious option for those seeking a comforting low-carb meal that’s also packed with flavor. Its combination of nourishing ingredients provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Whether you are on a ketogenic diet or simply looking to make healthier choices, this delightful soup is sure to become a new staple in your meal rotation. So give it a try today and savor the benefits!