Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
If you crave Mexican flavors but want to stay on track with your keto lifestyle, this Keto Chicken Enchilada Soup is your go-to recipe. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, tangy cream cheese, aromatic spices, and fresh veggies, this soup delivers big enchilada flavor with only 9g net carbs per serving. Whether you're meal-prepping or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this satisfying soup will warm your soul without kicking you out of ketosis.
With high-quality fats from cream cheese and olive oil and lean protein from chicken thighs, this dish aligns with keto macros while offering vibrant nutrition from fresh vegetables and herbs. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants from red bell peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1¼ tsp chili powder
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
- Add celery, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir to coat the vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes uncovered.
- Add softened cream cheese, stir until melted, and bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat again and simmer for another 20 minutes until thick and creamy.
- Stir in shredded chicken, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
- Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot. Top with extra cilantro or shredded cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Fats: 29.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Proteins: 27 g
Why This Soup Is Perfect for Keto
Each serving is rich in protein and healthy fats, which helps promote satiety and steady energy levels. Thanks to the low glycemic profile of its ingredients, this soup won’t spike your blood sugar, making it a great fit for ketogenic lifestyles.
Studies, including one from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, support the use of high-fat, low-carb meals like this to improve metabolic health and manage weight. This soup keeps you full and nourished without compromising your keto goals.
Serving Tips
Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for even more keto goodness. Serve with low-carb tortillas or almond flour crackers for a complete meal.