Low Carb Creamy Chicken Thyme Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying meal without the carbs. This creamy soup features tender chicken, aromatic thyme, and a luscious, velvety broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s not only delicious but also gluten-free and keto-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it all began on a rainy Sunday afternoon when I found myself rummaging through the pantry and fridge. I had chicken, some fresh thyme, and a few other ingredients that I thought would work well together. As the soup simmered, the aroma filled my kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that made it impossible to resist. The combination of creamy texture and fragrant thyme brings warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of the comforting meals my mother made when I was young. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, and I know you’ll love it just as much as we do!
Tips and Tricks
1. Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the flavor of the soup, but if you only have dried thyme, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
2. Sauté Your Aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients helps build a rich flavor base.
3. Blend for Creaminess: For a truly creamy soup, consider blending a portion of the soup and then mixing it back in. This gives you a lovely texture without needing to add heavy cream.
4. Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. Just shred it and add it to the soup toward the end of cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare this soup in advance by cooking the chicken and vegetables, then storing them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, combine them with the broth and cream and heat on the stove. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup without the cream for up to three months. Just add cream when reheating to maintain a fresh taste.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cauliflower for extra nutrition and texture.
- Herb Swaps: Instead of thyme, try rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
How to Serve
Serve your Low Carb Creamy Chicken Thyme Soup in warm bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. Pair with a slice of low-carb bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the herbaceous notes of thyme. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon would work wonderfully. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a well-rounded dining experience.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you wish to freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it will keep for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore the creamy texture.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup
- Cutting board and knife for chopping
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Blender or immersion blender for a creamy texture (optional)
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer for the same creamy effect.
- Nut-Free: Ensure any broth you use is free from nuts or nut-based ingredients.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Seasonal Adaptations
In winter, use hearty vegetables like carrots and celery, while in the spring, consider adding fresh peas or asparagus for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. During the fall, pumpkin puree can be added for a seasonal twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
- How long does this soup take to cook? The soup comes together in about 30-40 minutes.
- Can I substitute the cream? Yes, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the soup may not be as rich and creamy.
Low Carb Creamy Chicken Thyme Soup
Low Carb Creamy Chicken Thyme Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying meal without the carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup low-carb vegetables (spinach, zucchini, etc.)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and thyme to the pot, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 5-10 minutes to thicken.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add any optional low-carb vegetables.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 508Total Fat: 33gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 169mgSodium: 1115mgCarbohydrates: 12gFiber: 2gSugar: 5gProtein: 40g
Chickenrecipes.blog, 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
Creating this Low Carb Creamy Chicken Thyme Soup is not only a delicious endeavor but also a rewarding experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful, and let the warmth of this dish wrap around you like a cozy blanket!
