Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup: Your New Favorite Dish!

Name: Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 2 teaspoons cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

If you’re on a low-carb diet but still want to enjoy the warm hug of a delicious bowl of soup, you’ve hit the jackpot here with Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup! 🌮 Seriously, what’s not to love about a dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan? If you’re thinking that sounds too good to be true, then grab a chair and let’s get into why this soup is a game changer.

Why Tortilla Soup?

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: tortilla soup without tortillas? Wait, what?! I know—sounds a bit like spaghetti without the noodles, right? But don’t fret! This soup still retains all its Mexican-inspired goodness without throwing your carb count into a tailspin. So, let’s dive into this recipe that’ll keep your belly full and your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start thinking this soup is all complicated and stuff, let me assure you: it’s simple! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Because honestly, who has time to cook chicken from scratch every day?
4 cups chicken broth: Go for low-sodium if you’re feeling fancy.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: It’s like the soup’s best friend.
1 medium onion, chopped: For that sweet, sweet flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic is life.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Use whatever color makes your heart sing!
1 tablespoon chili powder: For a little kick. (You can adjust this if you want more or less heat!)
2 teaspoons cumin: Just trust me on this one.
Salt and pepper: To taste, obviously.

Optional Toppings:

Avocado slices: Because, again, what’s life without avocado?
Shredded cheese: This is where the magic happens!
Sour cream: Adds creaminess and balances the spice like a boss.
Chopped cilantro: A little fresh kick that’ll wow your guests (or yourself).

How to Make Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup

Now that you know what you need, let’s go over the super easy steps for making this deliciousness. Don’t worry; I won’t leave you hanging here with vague directions.

Step 1: Sauté Those Veggies

In a large pot, add a splash of olive oil (or whatever you’ve got) and sauté your chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until they soften. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Cook those bad boys until they’re translucent. It’ll smell amazing, promise! 😍

Step 2: Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Add in the chopped bell pepper, shredded chicken, broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Stir it all up like you mean it!

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. You want those flavors to party together! The longer you let it chill (not literally), the better it’ll taste.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Now’s the time to channel your inner chef. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. More salt? Go for it! Is it missing a kick? Add more chili powder!

Step 5: Serve with Toppings!

Spoon the soup into bowls and top with all the goodies you like. Avocado, cheese, sour cream, cilantro…don’t be shy! It’s your soup, make it fabulous!

Nutritional Breakdown

Okay, time for the reality check—what’s the nutritional scoop with this soup? Don’t run away; let’s keep this light but informative.

This Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup generally comes in around:

Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (about 1.5 cups)
Carbohydrates: Roughly 9 grams (number may vary based on toppings)
Protein: A fantastic 25 grams! Get that muscle fuel!
Fats: Around 8 grams, depending on whether you pile on the toppings.

Honestly, a hearty, low-carb option like this makes the carb-counts bearable, right? You can enjoy a second helping without the guilt creeping in! 🙌

Make It Your Own!

Every cook has their own style, and tortilla soup is no different! Want to kick the heat up a notch? Toss in some jalapeños. Prefer a creamier vibe? Integrate some heavy cream or cheese right into the soup! Here are a few variations you might consider:

Spice It Up!

Add more chili spice or even some hot sauce if you’re feeling brave. Trust your gut—are you team mild or team SCORCHING? 💥

Veggie Boost

Thow in some zucchini or spinach for extra health points. You won’t even miss the tortillas—no kidding!

Different Proteins

If chicken isn’t your jam, can I suggest turkey or even shredded beef? Keep it versatile!

Perfect Pairings

To complete your meal, consider pairing your Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup with:

A Side Salad: A crunchy side salad is always a hit. Isn’t it nice to have some greens with all that deliciousness?
Low-Carb Tortilla Chips: Yup, they exist! You can enjoy that crunch without going overboard on carbs.
A Classic Margarita: Just kidding! Keep it low-carb, but a sugar-free mocktail could do the trick.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—Low-Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup that lets you savor comfort food without completely derailing your healthy eating! It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it’s the kind of dish you can whip up quickly on a weeknight or slow-roast on a lazy Sunday. And don’t forget, this soup is as versatile as your mood!

Give it a shot, sprinkle in a bit of confidence, and you’re bound to impress yourself (and maybe even your friends). So, what are you waiting for? Get in that kitchen and start cooking! Your taste buds will thank you. And remember, low carb doesn’t mean low flavor! I mean… who doesn’t want a bowl of cozy just waiting to be devoured?

Happy cooking! 😊