Warm up with this delicious Keto Chicken Chipotle Soup, a comforting and spicy dish that’s perfect for those chilly days. This soup combines tender chicken thighs with the smoky flavor of chipotle chilis and the freshness of lime juice. It’s rich in protein and low in carbs, making it a fantastic choice for anyone following a keto diet.
This chicken soup is packed with flavor and a must for fans of Chipotle peppers. The Chief Taster loved this and went for another large bowl the next day. It's a hearty soup that will keep you full and content.
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What is Chipotle?
Chipotle refers to a type of smoked, dried jalapeño pepper that has a distinctively smoky, spicy flavor. Originating in Mexican cuisine, chipotles are usually prepared by drying ripe red jalapeños and smoking them over a wood fire. They’re most commonly found in two forms: chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (a tangy tomato-based sauce) and dried whole or ground chipotle powder.
In recipes, chipotle chilis bring a rich depth of flavor with medium to high heat levels, and they’re especially popular in sauces, stews, marinades and soups. They add both heat and smokiness, making them a unique ingredient that pairs well with a wide variety of dishes.
Ingredients
These are the ingredients needed to make this chipotle chicken soup. Feel free to add your own variation to this recipe.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are perfect for soups as they remain tender and moist.
- Canned chopped tomatoes: Adds a rich tomato flavor and helps to create a hearty base for the soup.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic: Infuses the soup with a fragrant and savory aroma.
- Chipotle chiles: These smoky, spicy chilis add a unique heat and flavor profile. We also use some of the sauce from the canned chilis in adobo sauce.
- Chicken broth: A flavorful base that enhances the soup's taste while keeping it low in carbs.
- Lime juice: Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Jalapeño: For an extra kick, this fresh chili brings both heat and flavor.
- Cumin: Adds warmth and an earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Chili powder: Enhances the overall spiciness and depth of flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
How to Make Chicken Chipotle Soup
This could be made in a slow cooker but we made this soup recipe on the stove.
Season the chicken thigh meat.
Saute the onions.
Add garlic and jalapeno.
Add the seasoned chicken.
Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve and enjoy.
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents excess moisture buildup and keeps the soup from becoming overly thick. Transfer the soup into an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
Place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe container, heating in intervals and stirring to ensure even warming.
Recipe Tips
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer adobo chilis. For a milder soup, remove the seeds from the chilis, or use only 1-2 chilis.
- Add Creaminess: For a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking. This will add richness without compromising the keto profile.
- Extra Toppings: Add fresh toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and healthy fats.
- Go Bone-In for More Flavor: If you have bone-in chicken thighs, feel free to use them for even more flavor. Just remove the bones after cooking and shred the meat.
- Blending for a Smoother Soup: For a smoother texture, blend part or all of the soup before adding the shredded chicken back in. This will give you a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.
What to Serve with Chicken Chipotle Soup
As delicious as this soup is, enjoy it served with crunchy cheese crisps or keto tortilla chips for a perfect dipping option to add a bit of crunch. A simple salad with avocado, cilantro, red onion, and lime complements the soup’s smoky flavors and adds healthy fats.
More Hearty Keto Soup Recipes
Enjoy a bowl of low carb comfort food with these other recipes:
Chicken Chipotle Soup
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Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 14 oz canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons adobo pepper sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 Jalapeno, deseeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Chop the chicken thigh meat into bit sized pieces and place into a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to the bowl with the cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Toss thoroughly to cover the chicken in the seasoned oil.
- Add the other 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large saucepan on a medium heat. Cook the onion until soft and tender.
- Add the garlic and jalapeno and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken meat to the saucepan and cook for 6-8 minutes
- Add the chicken broth, adobe peppers, sauce from adobe peppers, canned tomatoes and lime juice. Stir, cover the pot with a saucepan lid and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for added flavor and healthy fats.
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.
