Low Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for those who want to indulge in rich flavors without the extra carbs. This flavorful soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty broth, making it a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. With a blend of spices and fresh toppings, it’s a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy a healthy dinner any night of the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving a bowl of delicious soup while sticking to a low-carb diet. The flavors are bold and aromatic, thanks to the mix of spices, while the chicken adds a protein-packed punch. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time and effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit various dietary preferences and can be customized to your liking. You’ll love how this soup satisfies your cravings without weighing you down!
Tips and Tricks
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To cut down on prep time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and add it to the soup!
- Spice It Up: Adjust the level of heat by adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the nutrient profile and add more color.
- Herbs for Freshness: Fresh cilantro or parsley adds a burst of flavor right before serving. Don’t skip this step!
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add fresh toppings.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for those who love an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian soup.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk to create a creamy version of this soup.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken tortilla soup hot, garnished with slices of avocado, a sprinkle of cheese, and fresh cilantro. Pair it with a side of low-carb tortilla chips or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For a pop of color, drizzle some lime juice over the top before serving!
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this delicious soup with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a light beer. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside cornbread muffins (look for low-carb recipes) or a light dessert like sugar-free cheesecake bites.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup.
- Cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables.
- Ladle for serving.
- Optional: immersion blender if you prefer a smoother soup texture.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, replace the chicken with tofu or additional beans and use vegetable broth. To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese and use avocado or dairy-free alternatives as toppings. Ensure all packaged ingredients are free from allergens if necessary.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, you can use fresh corn instead of frozen for a sweeter flavor. In the fall, add pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist that enhances the soup’s texture and nutrition.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to the soup, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What if I don’t have chili powder? You can use a mix of paprika and cumin as a substitute, though the flavor may vary slightly.
- How long can I keep leftovers? Leftovers will stay fresh for about 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Low Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup
Low Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for those who want to indulge in rich flavors without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Avocado, for garnish
- Shredded cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- If using, stir in the frozen corn and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as preferred.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and shredded cheese.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 416Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 108mgSodium: 1196mgCarbohydrates: 23gFiber: 6gSugar: 6gProtein: 42g
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
Low carb chicken tortilla soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal that aligns with your dietary goals. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with different toppings and variations. Enjoy this delicious soup, and savor every spoonful!
