Low Carb Chicken Soup: 5g Net Carbs Per Serving Recipe

A properly prepared low carb chicken soup contains just 5-8g net carbs per serving by replacing traditional high-carb ingredients like potatoes and noodles with low-carb vegetables such as celery, zucchini, and leafy greens while maintaining rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

When seeking comfort food that aligns with dietary goals, low carb chicken soup emerges as a versatile solution for keto dieters, those managing diabetes, and anyone pursuing mindful carbohydrate consumption. This nourishing preparation transforms the classic comfort dish into a metabolic-friendly meal without sacrificing depth of flavor or comforting qualities. The secret lies in strategic ingredient selection and cooking techniques that preserve the soul-warming essence while dramatically reducing carbohydrate content.

What Makes Chicken Soup Truly Low Carb

Traditional chicken soup often contains 15-25g of carbohydrates per serving due to ingredients like potatoes, carrots, noodles, and corn. A genuinely low carb version eliminates these high-sugar components while enhancing flavor through alternative methods. The foundation of effective low carb chicken soup begins with quality bone broth, which provides collagen, gelatin, and rich flavor without added carbohydrates. When selecting store-bought broth, carefully check labels for hidden sugars and starches that can sabotage your low carb goals.

Professional chefs and nutrition-conscious cooks achieve remarkable depth of flavor through techniques like roasting bones beforehand, incorporating umami-rich ingredients such as mushrooms and tomato paste (in moderation), and finishing with fresh herbs. These methods compensate for the absence of traditional starch-thickeners while creating a more complex flavor profile than conventional recipes.

Perfecting Your Low Carb Chicken Soup Recipe

The following recipe yields four generous servings with approximately 6g net carbs per portion. This version prioritizes both nutritional integrity and exceptional taste, making it suitable for strict keto diets while satisfying even non-dieting palates.

Essential Ingredients

• 6 cups (1.4L) unsalted chicken bone broth (homemade preferred)
• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (more flavorful than breasts)
• 3 celery stalks, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced (about 2 cups)
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme or 2 tsp dried
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach added at the end

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions and celery until translucent (about 5 minutes)
2. Add garlic and thyme, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant
3. Pour in bone broth and bring to a gentle simmer
4. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're submerged
5. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally
6. Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to pot
7. Add zucchini and continue simmering for 10-12 minutes
8. Stir in apple cider vinegar, parsley, salt, and pepper
9. If using greens, add during the last 3 minutes of cooking
10. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving

Nutritional Profile Comparison

Nutrient	Traditional Chicken Soup	Low Carb Chicken Soup
Calories	180	210
Total Carbohydrates	18g	9g
Dietary Fiber	2g	3g
Net Carbs	16g	6g
Protein	12g	22g
Fat	8g	11g

Strategic Customizations for Dietary Needs

One of the remarkable features of this low carb chicken soup base is its adaptability to various dietary requirements. For strict keto followers, increasing the fat content by using chicken thighs instead of breasts and adding a tablespoon of MCT oil per serving can boost ketone production. Those following a paleo protocol can ensure all ingredients remain whole-food based without modifications.

Seasonal variations enhance year-round enjoyment: in summer, add fresh basil and cherry tomatoes (in moderation); during winter, incorporate roasted mushrooms and a pinch of smoked paprika for depth. For those managing blood sugar, the addition of 1-2 tbsp of lemon juice not only brightens flavor but also helps moderate glucose response to the meal.

Avoiding Common Low Carb Soup Pitfalls

Many home cooks inadvertently sabotage their low carb efforts through several common mistakes. The most frequent error involves using store-bought broths containing hidden sugars and starches—always verify labels for ingredients like maltodextrin, dextrose, or caramel color. Another oversight is overcooking vegetables, which breaks down their cellular structure and releases more natural sugars into the broth.

Flavor balancing presents another challenge. Without starches to provide mouthfeel, low carb soups can sometimes taste thin. Professional cooks address this by finishing with a small amount of full-fat coconut milk (¼ cup per serving) or by blending a portion of the soup to create natural thickness without adding carbohydrates.

Storage and Meal Prep Considerations

Proper storage maintains both safety and quality of your low carb chicken soup. Cool the soup rapidly by placing the pot in an ice bath before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerated soup remains fresh for 4-5 days, while frozen portions maintain quality for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water as the soup may thicken during storage.

For optimal meal prep, consider preparing components separately: cook and shred chicken in advance, chop vegetables, and store broth portions. Assembly takes just 15 minutes when combining prepped elements, making this an excellent option for busy schedules while ensuring adherence to low carb eating patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I thicken low carb chicken soup without adding carbohydrates?

Blend a portion of the cooked vegetables and broth to create natural thickness, or add a tablespoon of chia seeds that have been soaked in water. Xanthan gum (¼ teaspoon) also works effectively as a thickener with negligible carbs.

Can I make low carb chicken soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, low carb chicken soup adapts perfectly to pressure cooking. Sauté aromatics using the sauté function, add broth and chicken, then pressure cook for 12 minutes followed by a natural release. Add delicate vegetables like zucchini after pressure cooking and use the sauté function to finish.

What vegetables should I avoid in low carb chicken soup?

Avoid high-carb vegetables like potatoes, corn, peas, parsnips, and beets. Carrots should be used sparingly (¼ cup maximum) as they contain significant natural sugars. Stick to celery, zucchini, spinach, kale, broccoli, and cauliflower for lowest carb options.

How do I calculate net carbs in homemade chicken soup?

Calculate net carbs by totaling the carbohydrate content of all ingredients, subtracting total fiber content, then dividing by the number of servings. For precise tracking, use a digital kitchen scale to measure ingredients and a nutrition calculator app that accounts for cooking reductions.

Is store-bought broth acceptable for low carb chicken soup?

Many store-bought broths contain hidden sugars and starches. Look for brands labeled "no sugar added" and check ingredient lists for maltodextrin, dextrose, or caramel color. Bone broth varieties typically have better nutritional profiles, but homemade broth remains the most reliable low carb option.