Easy Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe 2025
Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: A Low-Carb Comfort Food Favorite
A Comforting, Creamy Bowl Without the Carbs
Imagine this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving a warm, comforting meal to end the day. But you’re also following a keto lifestyle, which means you need to keep your carbs low. Enter Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a bowl of warmth, creaminess, and flavor that satisfies your cravings without derailing your diet.
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This soup combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy broth that’s both indulgent and keto-friendly. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat but is perfectly aligned with your low-carb goals. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making the perfect Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup. From ingredients to cooking tips, we’ve got you covered so you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal that fits your lifestyle.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Low-Carb, High-Protein, and Full of Flavor
When you’re on a keto diet, you’re looking for meals that keep carbs low while being high in protein and healthy fats. This Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect example of how you can indulge in comfort food without sabotaging your goals.
Here’s why this soup is so great for your keto lifestyle:
- Low-Carb Comfort: Traditional broccoli cheddar soup is often thickened with flour, potatoes, or cornstarch, all of which are high in carbs. In this keto version, we skip those ingredients and use heavy cream and cheese to create the creamy texture, keeping the carbs to a minimum.
- Packed with Protein: The addition of chicken breast boosts the protein content, making this soup a satisfying and filling meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this soup will keep you feeling full for hours.
- Rich and Creamy: The star of this soup is the combination of sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream, which gives it that comforting, creamy texture you love in traditional broccoli cheddar soup.
By the end of this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a low-carb, filling meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients for Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Before we get started, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious soup. These are simple, everyday ingredients that are perfect for a keto diet.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast | 2 cups, cooked and shredded | Lean protein to keep the soup filling and satisfying. |
| Fresh Broccoli | 3 cups, chopped | Adds fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch. |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups, shredded | The key ingredient for the creamy, cheesy flavor. |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | Adds richness and creaminess to the soup base. |
| Chicken Broth (low-sodium) | 4 cups | Creates the flavorful base for the soup without adding extra carbs. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and onion. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Enhances the flavor with a savory kick. |
| Onion (optional) | 1 small, chopped | For sweetness and depth of flavor. |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | To season the soup and bring all the flavors together. |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To start, cook and shred the chicken. If you haven’t already done so, cook two chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. You can either cook them in a pan with a little olive oil or bake them in the oven. If you’re short on time, you can easily substitute rotisserie chicken to speed up the process.
Once the chicken is shredded, set it aside to add to the soup later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onion is soft. This step will build a solid flavor base for your soup.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Once the aromatics are ready, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir occasionally to help the flavors combine. Let the broth simmer for about 5 minutes so it can absorb all the delicious garlic and onion flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add the chopped broccoli to the pot. Allow the broccoli to cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until it’s tender but still bright green. The broccoli should maintain some texture and a slight crunch, so be careful not to overcook it.
Step 5: Add the Heavy Cream and Cheese
Once the broccoli is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Then, slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the soup reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
Now that the soup is creamy, add your shredded chicken to the pot. Stir the soup until the chicken is well combined and heated through. This will give the soup its heartiness and make it even more filling.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Sample the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste. If you prefer a little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or garlic powder. Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings to make the soup suit your taste.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is fully combined, serve it hot. You can garnish it with extra shredded cheese, some fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little spice. Enjoy your comforting, keto-friendly meal!
Tips for the Perfect Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make sure your Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe because it maintains a nice texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the soup.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you like your soup thicker, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a thicker, creamier texture.
- Make It Extra Cheesy: If you want an ultra-creamy soup, feel free to add more cheese. Just be careful not to add too much at once—gradually add the cheese while stirring to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using a low-sodium chicken broth helps to keep the soup flavorful without making it too salty. You can always adjust the seasoning later to taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Overcooking the broccoli can cause it to become mushy. Aim for a tender texture with a little crunch for the best results.
How to Customize Your Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup
One of the best things about this soup is how easy it is to customize based on your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to give the soup a little heat. You can also add cayenne pepper or chili powder for more depth of flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: If you want to increase the veggie content, you can add cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini. These vegetables will blend right into the soup while still keeping it keto-friendly.
- Make It a Casserole: If you’re in the mood for something heartier, transfer the soup to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Dairy-Free Option: For those who are dairy-free, you can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Make sure to check the carb content of dairy-free cheeses to ensure they fit your keto goals.
Nutritional Information: How Does This Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Stack Up?
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup) of this keto-friendly soup:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
This soup is not only low in carbs, but it’s also high in protein and healthy fats. With just 6 grams of carbs per serving, it’s a perfect fit for your keto meal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Soup in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Definitely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
How Can I Make This Soup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid, or blend part of the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add other keto-friendly vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms to make it heartier.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers the perfect balance of creamy, comforting, and low-carb goodness. It’s simple to prepare, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. The best part? You can indulge without worrying about straying from your keto diet. So, why not gather your ingredients and give it a try today?