ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, giving you a preview of the flavors to come!
2. Add the Spices
Stir in the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook the spices with the onion and garlic for another minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant and slightly toasted. This step really enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
3. Simmer the Soup
Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and green chiles (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Cream It Up
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy base for the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir until it’s evenly distributed throughout the soup. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to come together.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds a nice tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and Hearty: The cream cheese and heavy cream give the soup its creamy consistency without the need for high-carb ingredients like flour or potatoes, making it perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
- Flavorful Spices: The combination of cumin, chili powder, and paprika gives the soup a traditional Mexican flavor that’s bold and satisfying.
- Protein-Rich: The shredded chicken makes this soup not only delicious but also filling, ensuring you stay satisfied longer.
- Quick and Convenient: With just a 30-minute prep time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat and add it to the soup—this will save you time and effort while still delivering great flavor.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or green chiles to your preference if you like your soup spicier. For a milder version, simply skip the cayenne.
- Add Vegetables: For an extra boost of nutrients, feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the soup. Just chop them up and add them during the simmering stage.
- Make it Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar creamy texture.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Mexican Soup: Add a cup of shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend) to the soup as it simmers for a cheesy, gooey twist.
- Avocado: Top the soup with slices of fresh avocado for added creaminess and a pop of color.
- Spicy Salsa: Add a spoonful of your favorite salsa or hot sauce to the soup for an extra burst of flavor and heat.
Conclusion
This Creamy Low-Carb Mexican Soup is a must-try for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with vibrant Mexican flavors, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners or meal prep. The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and a blend of spices creates a smooth, hearty soup that will leave you feeling satisfied without the carb overload.
With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a healthy meal. Serve it with your favorite garnishes and enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!
🍲🌶️
ADVERTISEMENT
