Introduction

Homemade Detox Keto Southwest Chicken Soup is a robust and nourishing dish that brings together the rich flavors of the Southwest with the principles of a ketogenic diet. This hearty soup is designed to be both detoxifying and satisfying, featuring a blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful, low-carb meal that supports overall health and wellness. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed instructions, ingredient measurements, and nutritional information to ensure that you can prepare this delicious soup with ease.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

  1. 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • For sautéing the vegetables and chicken.
  3. 1 large onion
    • Diced for a flavorful base.
  4. 3 cloves garlic
    • Minced to add depth and aroma.
  5. 1 red bell pepper
    • Diced to add sweetness and color.
  6. 1 green bell pepper
    • Diced to complement the red bell pepper and add more crunch.
  7. 1 medium zucchini
    • Sliced and diced to add bulk and texture to the soup.
  8. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
    • With no added sugars. Provides a rich, tomatoey base.
  9. 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
    • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
  10. 1 cup (240 ml) water
    • To adjust the consistency of the soup.

For the Spice Mix:

  1. 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • Adds a bold, spicy flavor to the soup.
  2. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • Provides an earthy, smoky taste.
  3. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Enhances the flavor with a subtle smokiness.
  4. 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • Adds a herby note to the soup.
  5. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • For additional garlic flavor.
  6. 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • Complements the fresh garlic and onion.
  7. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • Optional, for extra heat.
  8. Salt and black pepper to taste
    • To season the soup according to your preference.

For Garnishing:

  1. 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
    • Chopped for a fresh, herbal flavor.
  2. 1 avocado
    • Diced for added creaminess.
  3. 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • Optional, for a cheesy topping.
  4. 1 lime
    • Cut into wedges for serving. Adds a tangy, refreshing touch.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the chicken breasts, chop the vegetables, and mince the garlic. This will make the cooking process smoother and more organized.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers and the zucchini. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
  5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
  6. Add Spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the pot. Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the soup.
  7. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
  8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add more cayenne pepper or chili powder.
  9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
  10. Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.
  11. Reheating: When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency, as the soup may thicken when stored.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 cup, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 200
  • Total Fat: 11 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 8 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
  • Net Carbs: 9 grams
  • Protein: 15 grams

SmartPoints®

  • WW SmartPoints®: 4 points per serving (based on the latest WW calculations for keto-friendly ingredients).

Useful Tips

  1. Chicken Preparation: For a more tender chicken, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. They are generally more flavorful and remain moist during cooking.
  2. Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to substitute or add other low-carb vegetables such as spinach, kale, or celery. Just be mindful of their cooking times to ensure they are properly cooked.
  3. Spice Adjustments: Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder according to your taste preference.
  4. Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a creamier texture.
  5. Garnishing Options: Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
  6. Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs well with a side salad or keto-friendly bread for a more filling meal.
  7. Dietary Considerations: This soup is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs. Ensure that all packaged ingredients, such as broth, are free from hidden sugars or gluten.
  8. Meal Prep: This soup is excellent for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and portion it into individual containers for convenient, on-the-go meals.

Conclusion

Homemade Detox Keto Southwest Chicken Soup offers a satisfying, low-carb option that is both nutritious and delicious. With its blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and bold Southwestern spices, this soup delivers a comforting and flavorful experience that aligns with ketogenic dietary goals. This detailed recipe ensures that you can create a perfectly balanced soup that supports both detoxification and overall wellness. Enjoy this hearty and wholesome dish as a nourishing meal that caters to your low-carb lifestyle.