Ever get the feeling you’re floating through a cheesy dream, where all you see is a tantalizing blend of queso and chicken? Well, welcome to the reality of Keto Queso Chicken Soup. As a soup lover, there’s nothing I find more comforting than a bowl of this rich, creamy goodness, especially on cooler evenings. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, don’t you think?
With the rise of the ketogenic diet, we’re all finding innovative ways to enjoy our favorite dishes without breaking our low-carb regime. But who said an eating plan has to feel like a chore? Let’s dive in, explore, and create something delicious that will not only satisfy our taste buds but also keep us within the boundaries of our diet. The Keto Queso Chicken Soup is a perfect example of this.
How Keto Queso Chicken Soup fits into a ketogenic diet
The Keto Queso Chicken Soup is a low-carb, high-fat recipe that perfectly fits into a ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet primarily focuses on high-fat, adequate-protein, and low-carbohydrate intake. This not only aids in weight loss but also helps maintain overall health by keeping blood sugar levels in check.
With the right balance of proteins, fats, and minimal carbohydrates, this soup is not just lip-smackingly delicious, but it also aids in achieving your health goals. It’s hearty, satisfying, and the perfect comfort food that aligns with your nutritional needs.
The Magic of Queso in this Soup
Queso, the Spanish word for cheese, is the star ingredient that elevates this soup to a whole new level. A good, melty queso adds a velvety smooth texture and rich taste that is simply irresistible. It’s like the secret wand that transforms an ordinary soup into something extraordinary.
Moreover, queso is a great source of protein and fat, making it an ideal ingredient in a ketogenic diet. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the chicken beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in your bowl.
Choosing the Right Chicken
Choosing the right chicken is crucial for this recipe. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this soup. They’re lean, cook quickly, and soak up the flavors of the rich, cheesy broth, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful pieces.
However, it’s important to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked before adding it to the soup. Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken can also work wonderfully and save you some prep time.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 cups of shredded queso cheese
- 1 diced onion
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 tsp of cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Green onions and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Start by sautéing the diced onions in a large pot until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute or so.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, cream, and seasonings to the pot. Let it come to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the soup.
- Add in the shredded queso cheese and stir until it’s fully melted and well combined.
- Garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Keto Queso Chicken Soup
1. Make sure to shred the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded cheese often contains added starches that can interfere with the melting process. 2. Feel free to add some heat to the soup with a bit of jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce. 3. The soup will thicken as it cools, so if you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more broth or cream.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
With its creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chunks of chicken, this soup is a delight for your taste buds. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make and packed with nutritional goodness. Its low-carb nature makes it a perfect fit for those following a ketogenic diet, and its satisfying, comforting qualities make it a hit with everyone.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Protein: 40g
- Net Carbs: 5g