This cozy soup is a tasty twist on classic chicken pot pie, but without the carbs! It’s filled with tender chicken, creamy broth, and colorful veggies.
Using a slow cooker makes it super easy! Just dump the ingredients in and let it simmer until everything is warm and yummy. Perfect for chilly nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for this soup. I lean towards thighs for their juiciness, but any boneless chicken works! If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a quick substitute.
Broth: Chicken broth adds flavor and depth. I suggest using low-sodium to control salt, or homemade if you have some on hand. If you need a vegetarian option, try vegetable broth or even bone broth for added nutrients.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture while keeping it keto. Coconut cream is an excellent dairy-free alternative; just be aware it may alter the flavor slightly. If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half, but it will not be as thick.
Turnips/Rutabaga: These are low-carb substitutes for potatoes. Turnips are my go-to, but rutabaga also works well! If you can’t find either, zucchini can be an alternative, though it might not have the same texture.
Vegetables: Feel free to adjust the veggies! Peas, green beans, or mushrooms can add variety. For a more intense flavor, try adding a few frozen peas at the end to keep them bright and fresh!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Tender?
To achieve perfectly tender chicken, focus on the cooking time and temperature. Here are some tips:
- Cook on low for longer (6-8 hours) for the best results. This slow cooking breaks down the fibers in the chicken, making it incredibly tender.
- Be careful not to overcook; check for doneness in the last hour of cooking. If the chicken is cooked, it should shred easily.
- Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding helps it retain moisture.
Using these techniques will ensure your soup is hearty, rich, and loaded with flavor that the whole family will love!
Slow-Cooker Keto Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper or pickles
- 1 medium turnip or rutabaga, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tbsp xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you let the slow cooker do its job! You’ll need 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to let all the flavors blend and the chicken cook to perfection. Just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warmed up, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step adds a wonderful flavor base!
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
Take the sautéed onion and garlic and transfer them to your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens! Add the chicken breasts or thighs, chopped carrots, celery, diced turnip (or rutabaga), diced bell pepper (or pickles), chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it well!
3. Let It Cook:
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and the vegetables nice and tender by the end of this time.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step really lets the rich flavors mix back into the soup when you return it!
5. Create a Creamy Base:
Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker. Next, stir in your choice of heavy cream or coconut cream. This will give your soup that signature creamy texture, making it feel like a hearty meal!
6. Thicken If Desired:
If you like your soup a bit thicker, sprinkle in the xanthan gum while stirring continuously. This will help achieve the perfect consistency without adding extra carbs.
7. Final Touches:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if you feel it needs it. Then, it’s time to serve!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Dishing up this soup is easy! Serve it hot and feel free to garnish with extra herbs or parsley for a fresh touch. Pair it with some low-carb crackers or enjoy it as is!
This recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic comfort food while staying on track with a keto lifestyle. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen chicken before adding it to the slow cooker. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. This ensures even cooking!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can easily prepare it in advance. Simply cook the soup, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Are Some Good Substitutions for the Veggies?
If you’re out of certain veggies, feel free to get creative! You can substitute with frozen peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Just remember to add any quick-cooking veggies towards the end of the cooking time so they stay vibrant and tender!
How Can I Thicken the Soup Without Xanthan Gum?
If you prefer not to use xanthan gum, you can blend a small portion of the soup (about 1 cup) in a blender until smooth and then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, you can use a few tablespoons of cream cheese to thicken it up, which adds richness as well!
