Best Keto Chicken Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chicken soup, especially when it’s homemade. For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, traditional chicken soup recipes can sometimes be too heavy on noodles or starchy vegetables. This Keto Chicken Soup eliminates the carbs while keeping all the heartwarming flavors intact.

1. Best Keto Chicken Soup Recipe (Yield: 8 Servings)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped (approximately 2 cups)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 6–8 cups chicken broth 
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs or one whole chicken
• 2 cups cauliflower rice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Mince the garlic and measure out the seasonings. If using chicken thighs, trim any excess skin or fat.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the chicken and broth

Season the sautéed vegetables with salt and pepper. Then, add the chicken broth ( Use 6 cups if you use chicken thighs, or 8 cups if you use a whole chicken ), bay leaves, and chicken (either the thighs or the whole chicken). If using a whole chicken, make sure it’s submerged in the broth; add extra water if necessary.

Step 4: Simmer the soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 45–60 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and infuse the broth with rich, savory flavor.

Step 5: Shred the chicken

Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside on a large plate. Use tongs or two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.

Step 6: Add the cauliflower rice

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the cauliflower rice and stir well. Continue to simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the cauliflower rice becomes tender but not mushy.

Step 7: Adjust seasoning and serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Enjoy your bowl of Keto Chicken Soup hot, and savor its nourishing, low-carb goodness!

2. Tips for Perfect Keto Chicken Soup

To make your keto chicken soup rich in flavor and texture, here are some helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience:

Using bone-in chicken thighs gives the broth a deeper, more savory flavor than boneless cuts. If you use a whole chicken, you’ll get an even richer and more collagen-filled soup. When sautéing the vegetables, don’t rush this step — allowing them to caramelize slightly brings out their natural sweetness and depth.

The cauliflower rice should be added at the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy. For the best texture, cook it just until tender. You can also use frozen cauliflower rice, but remember to reduce the simmering time slightly since it cooks faster.

If you want a thicker broth, remove the lid and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes at the end. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner consistency, simply add a little more chicken broth or water.

Seasoning is key — taste your soup before serving and add more salt or pepper if needed. To boost the flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a small amount of lemon juice right before serving. This brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the broth.

For those who like a little spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. The heat pairs beautifully with the comforting chicken flavor.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply skip the simmering step for raw chicken and add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the broth along with the cauliflower rice.

How do I store leftover keto chicken soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Can I freeze keto chicken soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Is cauliflower rice necessary for this recipe?

While cauliflower rice adds bulk and a pleasant texture, you can omit it or substitute with zucchini noodles or chopped spinach for variety.

How can I make the soup creamier without adding carbs?

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese toward the end of cooking. It adds richness without adding significant carbs.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! In a slow cooker, cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. In an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with a natural release, then stir in the cauliflower rice afterward.

4. Nutrition Information

This Best Keto Chicken Soup Recipe is wholesome, low in carbs, and packed with nutrition. It’s the ideal dish for anyone on the keto diet who still wants to enjoy the comfort of classic chicken soup. From its flavorful broth to its tender chicken and nourishing vegetables, this recipe proves that you can eat clean without sacrificing taste. Perfect for meal prep, cozy nights, or a quick pick-me-up — this soup is sure to become a staple in your keto kitchen.