Name: Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken breast; 4 cups zucchini; 2 cups celery; 2 cups yellow squash; 1 cup Fresh Green Beans; 1 large sweet onion; 2 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp celery salt; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 6 cups chicken broth

This low-carb slow cooker chicken soup recipe is perfectly suited for those following a low-carb diet or anyone who enjoys a hearty, healthy soup. The blend of chicken, vegetables, and herbs creates a delicious, comforting soup that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences.

Photos of Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe

The ingredients in this recipe are all common and should be easily available in any supermarket. However, celery salt is one item that you might not commonly have at home. It is a flavored salt used as a seasoning, often in cocktail and classic Southern recipes. If you don't have it on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of regular salt and a bit of finely chopped celery or celery seed.

Ingredients for Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

Chicken breast: The main protein source in the soup. Choose skinless, boneless chicken breast for lean protein.

Zucchini: Adds a nice texture to the soup and is a great source of fiber.

Celery: Provides a nice crunch and fresh flavor.

Yellow squash: Complements the other vegetables and adds additional nutrients.

Green beans: Adds color, flavor, and vital nutrients to the soup.

Sweet onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized flavor when cooked.

Dried basil: A herb that adds an aromatic flavor to the soup.

Celery salt: Adds a distinct savory flavor to the soup.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat to the soup.

Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing a rich, chicken flavor.

One reader, Jewel Spicer says:

This low-carb slow cooker chicken soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the veggies are perfectly tender. It's so convenient to throw everything in the slow cooker and come home to a delicious, healthy meal. I love how versatile and satisfying this soup is!

Jewel Spicer

Techniques Required for Making Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

How to prepare the ingredients: Wash and chop the zucchini, celery, yellow squash, green beans, and onion into bite-sized pieces.

How to season the soup: Combine the dried basil, celery salt, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl before adding them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

How to check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

How to store leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers and refrigerating for up to 3-4 days.

How To Make Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

This two-step chicken soup recipe, slow-cooked with zucchini, squash, and beans, has the complete and healthy flavor of meat and greens.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbsskinless, boneless chicken breast
4cupszucchini,chopped
2cupscelery,chopped
2cupsyellow squash,chopped
1cupfresh green beans,chopped
1largesweet onion,chopped
2tspdried basil
1tspcelery salt
1tspsalt
1tspground black pepper
6cupschicken broth

Instructions

In a slow cooker, combine chicken, zucchini, celery, yellow squash, green beans, onion, basil, celery salt, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken broth, making sure it covers the ingredients. Then cook on High for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is no longer pink and is fully cooked.

Nutrition

Calories: 310.55kcal
Fat: 13.03g
Saturated Fat: 3.68g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.40g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.72g
Carbohydrates: 17.85g
Fiber: 2.51g
Sugar: 7.74g
Protein: 30.11g
Cholesterol: 77.97mg
Sodium: 650.86mg
Calcium: 71.65mg
Potassium: 885.08mg
Iron: 2.26mg
Vitamin A: 51.84µg
Vitamin C: 20.12mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

When preparing your chicken for this soup, consider cutting it into smaller pieces before adding it to the slow cooker. This will not only speed up the cooking process but also allow the flavors of the broth and vegetables to penetrate the chicken more thoroughly, resulting in a more flavorful soup. Additionally, when adding your vegetables to the slow cooker, try to cut them into uniform sizes. This ensures that they all cook evenly and at the same rate, preventing some from becoming overcooked while others are still crunchy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chicken Soup Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and chicken the night before, so you can quickly assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the next day.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Save time by using pre-cut vegetables from the grocery store, or consider using frozen vegetables for added convenience.

Set it and forget it: Let the slow cooker do the work for you while you attend to other tasks or go about your day.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals in the future.

Invest in a good slow cooker: A reliable and efficient slow cooker can save time and effort in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower is a low-carb alternative that can add a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the soup.
yellow squash - Substitute with radishes: Radishes can provide a similar crunch and texture to yellow squash while being lower in carbs.
sweet onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor and lower carb content compared to sweet onions.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a low-carb alternative to chicken broth while still providing depth of flavor.

Best Presentation Ideas for This Delicious Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the low-carb slow cooker chicken soup, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor to the soup.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, on top of the soup. The vibrant hues of the flowers will provide a stunning contrast against the rich broth and vegetables.
Serve with artisanal low-carb bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of freshly baked, artisanal low-carb bread. Present it on the side or elegantly leaning against the bowl for a visually striking and appetizing presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for high-quality, elegant serving ware such as ceramic or porcelain bowls to elevate the dining experience. The presentation should exude sophistication and attention to detail.
Drizzle with a swirl of olive oil: Just before serving, add a touch of finesse by drizzling a swirl of premium extra virgin olive oil over the soup. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a glossy sheen to the dish.
Accent with microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens, such as pea shoots or micro basil, on top of the soup. These tiny greens will add a subtle, refined touch to the presentation.
Add a dash of freshly ground black pepper: Just before serving, grind a small amount of fresh black pepper over the soup. This final touch adds a hint of spice and a visually appealing speckled effect to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures. It's perfect for making soups, stews, and other slow-cooked dishes.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting the chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients for the soup.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients for the soup.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring the chicken broth, spices, and other ingredients for the soup.
Can opener: If using canned chicken broth, a can opener will be needed to open the cans.
Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup once it's ready.
Tongs: Tongs can be helpful for handling the chicken while placing it in the slow cooker.
Vegetable peeler: If needed for peeling the vegetables, a vegetable peeler will be useful.
Measuring cup: This will be used to measure the chicken broth for the soup.
Serving bowls: These will be used to serve the finished soup.

How To Store and Freeze Leftover Chicken Soup

Allow the chicken soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure the best quality.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The chicken soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little chicken broth or water when reheating.
To freeze the soup, ladle it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting, stirring occasionally to ensure even thawing.
Reheat the thawed soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You may need to add a little extra chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency, as the vegetables may absorb some of the liquid during storage.
For best results, avoid freezing the soup multiple times, as this can affect the texture and quality of the vegetables and chicken. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider freezing the soup in smaller portions for easier thawing and reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Soup

Reheat the chicken soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating without overcooking the vegetables or chicken.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the low-carb chicken soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the vegetables to become mushy.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a slow cooker. Transfer the leftover soup to the slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours or until it's heated through. This method is perfect if you want to reheat a large batch of soup for a family meal or gathering.
If you prefer a thicker consistency for your reheated chicken soup, you can add a slurry of chicken broth and arrowroot powder or xanthan gum to the pot while reheating. This will help thicken the soup without adding extra carbs.
To add extra flavor to your reheated low-carb soup, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a bright, tangy flavor.

Interesting Fact About Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has been a popular remedy for the common cold for centuries. It is believed that the steam from the hot soup can help clear nasal passages and the nutrients in the soup can help boost the immune system.

Is Making This Chicken Soup Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The low-carb slow cooker chicken soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken, zucchini, celery, and other affordable ingredients makes it a budget-friendly option. The use of seasonal vegetables and minimal meat keeps the cost low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10 for its affordability and nutritional value.

Is This Chicken Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This low-carb slow cooker chicken soup recipe is a nutritious and wholesome meal option. Here's why:

The recipe is packed with lean protein from the skinless, boneless chicken breast, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
It features a variety of low-carb vegetables, including zucchini, celery, yellow squash, green beans, and onion, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
The use of dried basil, celery salt, salt, and pepper adds flavor without relying on unhealthy additives or excessive amounts of sodium.
The chicken broth base provides additional protein, vitamins, and minerals while keeping the soup low in calories and fat.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use organic, free-range chicken to ensure the highest quality protein source and minimize exposure to antibiotics and hormones.
Increase the variety of vegetables by adding other low-carb options like spinach, kale, or mushrooms to boost the nutrient content further.
Replace some of the chicken broth with water to reduce the overall sodium content of the soup.
Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the soup to help extract more nutrients from the chicken bones and vegetables while adding a subtle tangy flavor.
Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of fresh flavor and additional vitamins and minerals.

Editor's Opinion on This Low-Carb Chicken Soup Recipe

This low-carb slow cooker chicken soup recipe is a delightful and nutritious option for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal. The combination of lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings creates a comforting and flavorful soup. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and hearty dish. It's a perfect option for a cozy night in or a nourishing meal any day of the week.

Enhance Your Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with savory garlic and parmesan cheese.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of flavors.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce and grilled to perfection for a flavorful and protein-packed side dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Chicken Soup

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is made with roasted butternut squash, onions, and a hint of nutmeg for a delicious fall-inspired dish.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken: This savory and sweet chicken dish is marinated in a balsamic glaze and then grilled to perfection, creating a flavorful and juicy main course.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing and vibrant salsa is made with ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, red onions, and cilantro, perfect for serving with grilled fish or as a topping for tacos.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with This Chicken Soup Recipe

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are a perfect appetizer to kick off any meal. The combination of flavorful ingredients creates a mouthwatering bite that will leave your guests wanting more.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a delightful way to start any gathering. The crunch of the fritters paired with the tender zucchini inside makes for a satisfying appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a light and refreshing parfait that's perfect for a guilt-free sweet treat.

Why trust this Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe:

This slow cooker chicken soup recipe is a wholesome and nutritious option for anyone looking for a low-carb meal. Packed with chicken breast, zucchini, celery, and other fresh vegetables, it offers a hearty and satisfying dish. The use of chicken broth ensures a rich and flavorful base, while the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly. With the added convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is a time-saving solution for busy individuals. Trust in the combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation for a delicious and nourishing chicken soup experience.

Share your thoughts on this Low-Carb Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this comforting soup even better!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. They will add a rich flavor to the soup.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite low-carb vegetables to customize the soup to your liking.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian option.

Can I cook this on low instead of high?

Yes, you can cook the soup on low for 6 to 8 hours instead of on high for 4 to 6 hours. The longer cooking time will allow the flavors to meld even more.