The BEST Keto Chicken Taco Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that perfectly marries the spicy flavors of traditional tacos with a hearty soup base. This recipe is not only low in carbs but also packed with protein, making it an ideal choice for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, this soup will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Keto Chicken Taco Soup for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s bursting with flavor thanks to a medley of spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, which create a taco-inspired taste sensation. The creamy texture, derived from cream cheese, adds a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates the dish beyond your average soup. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and cooking effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it fits seamlessly into a keto diet by utilizing low-carb ingredients that keep your macros in check.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your Keto Chicken Taco Soup turns out spectacularly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time; simply shred it and add it to the pot.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
- Adding a splash of lime juice before serving brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, portion it out into airtight containers and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it becomes too thick.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your soup with these variations:
- Swap out chicken for ground beef or turkey for a different protein.
- Add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Change up the spices; try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or coriander for an earthy note.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
How to Serve
Serve your Keto Chicken Taco Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. For a beautiful presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls, and sprinkle the toppings generously. Pair it with crispy pork rinds or a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider serving this soup with a refreshing margarita or a light lager. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lime is a great choice. Complement your soup with a simple side salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette or even some keto-friendly cornbread for a heartier meal.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup. If you prefer a slow cooker, this recipe can easily be adapted for that method as well. A good quality knife and cutting board are also essential for chopping the vegetables efficiently.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this soup suitable for various dietary needs, consider these swaps:
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
- To make it vegan, replace chicken with plant-based protein and vegetable broth.
- For nut-free options, ensure all ingredients are free from nuts and nut-based products.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh tomatoes and corn for a burst of flavor, while in the winter, canned tomatoes can provide the warmth and comfort needed during colder months. Fresh herbs like cilantro are best in warmer months, while dried herbs can be used in the winter for convenience.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, just increase the cooking time.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What can I use instead of cream cheese? You can substitute with sour cream or heavy cream for a different flavor profile.
How can I make it spicier? Add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños according to your heat preference.
How To Make The BEST Keto Chicken Taco Soup
The BEST Keto Chicken Taco Soup
The BEST Keto Chicken Taco Soup is a delightful, comforting dish that perfectly marries the spicy flavors of traditional tacos with a hearty soup base.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or cooked)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can chicken broth (15 oz)
- 1 can diced green chilies (4 oz)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado, diced, for garnish
- Shredded cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 499Total Fat 36gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 146mgSodium 604mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 5gSugar 5gProtein 33g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, The BEST Keto Chicken Taco Soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a practical choice for those on a ketogenic diet. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this soup will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to guests, it promises to please everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort!