Living in the Dominican Republic has taught me to get creative with what’s available, especially when it comes to cooking for my family while keeping my type 2 diabetes in check. Soups like this keto chicken taco soup are a lifesaver on busy evenings when I need something filling, flavorful, and healthy. With just a few simple ingredients and bold seasonings, it becomes the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy—whether it’s my teens piling on avocado slices or me keeping it lighter with fresh cilantro.
Craving a dish that packs a punch of flavor while keeping you on track with your keto diet?
This low-carb chicken taco soup is just what you need. With zesty spices and tender chicken, it’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the carbs.
Imagine a warm bowl of soup filled with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a kick of taco seasoning. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is not just healthy—it’s downright delicious.
When I make this, I often double the recipe because leftovers are gold—my kids love reheating it for lunch the next day, and I love not worrying about what to pack.
The Appeal of Keto Chicken Taco Soup
This keto chicken taco soup is a delicious, low-carb option for those seeking a flavorful meal without straying from their dietary goals.
Filled with shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it delivers a satisfying combination of taste and nutrition.
Its rich aroma and vibrant colors make it an inviting choice for any dinner table, especially during cooler weather.
Even though we live in a tropical climate, I find myself craving warm, hearty bowls of soup during our rainy season—it feels like comfort food with a little spice to brighten the day.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to this soup lies in its fresh ingredients and zesty seasonings.
With boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the star, the dish is packed with protein while keeping carbohydrates to a minimum.
Fresh vegetables, like onion and garlic, add depth, while the diced tomatoes and green chilies offer a lovely kick that brings everything together.
Cooking Process: A Simple Approach
Creating this soup is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
Start by browning the chicken in olive oil, then sauté the aromatics in the same pot.
Combining everything into one pot not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.
I’ve learned to always brown my chicken well before adding it back to the pot. It gives the soup a richer depth, especially since we sometimes can’t find as many seasoning packets here.
Perfect Toppings for Extra Flair
The beauty of this soup is in its versatility, especially when it comes to toppings.
A generous sprinkle of shredded cheese, creamy avocado slices, and fresh cilantro can transform each bowl into a personalized delight.
For those who enjoy a bit of tang, a dollop of sour cream can also be an excellent addition.
Since sour cream can be hard to find in the Dominican Republic, I often use plain Greek yogurt instead, and it works perfectly without changing the flavor too much.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This chicken taco soup can stand alone as a hearty meal or be paired with low-carb sides for a complete dining experience.
Consider serving it with a side of crispy lettuce wraps or a simple green salad to keep things fresh and light.
Whether for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, its rich flavors will please a variety of palates.
Sometimes I serve this with homemade low-carb tortillas, which can be tricky to make at sea level, but my kids always beg me to make the extra effort.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
At around 300 calories per serving, this soup is not just satisfying but also aligns beautifully with a keto diet.
With 35 grams of protein and only 8 grams of carbohydrates, it supports muscle maintenance while keeping carb intake low.
This balance makes it a great option for anyone focusing on weight management or simply seeking a healthier meal choice.
The Perfect Keto-Friendly Taco Soup
This chicken taco soup is a hearty, flavorful dish made with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and a blend of spices that deliver a delightful kick. It’s thick, rich, and perfect for those following a keto lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Sour cream and avocado for topping (optional)
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat.
- Swap diced green chilies with fresh jalapeños if canned ones aren’t available.
- Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a slightly different flavor.
- Replace shredded cheese with a dairy-free cheese if needed.
- Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for topping.
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the boneless chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, green chilies, chicken broth, taco seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup. Stir to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
Pro Tips
- Brown the chicken well before simmering to create deeper flavor.
- Add an extra half teaspoon of cumin if you enjoy a smoky edge.
- Make the soup a little creamier by stirring in 3 oz of cream cheese at the end.
- Prep toppings in advance and store them separately so everyone can customize their own bowl.
- For meal prep, store the soup base and toppings separately to keep textures fresh.
Tip from Grammie Shirley
If you want to save time on weeknights, cook and shred the chicken the day before. That way, all you have to do is simmer the soup and add the chicken back in.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, just add all ingredients except toppings and cook on low for 6–7 hours, then shred the chicken and stir it back in.
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely. Shred the cooked chicken and add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to keep it tender.
Q: Is this soup freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: Add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce while simmering.
Q: What toppings work best for keto?
A: Avocado, shredded cheese, cilantro, and Greek yogurt are great keto-friendly options.
Nutrition & Serving Info
Estimated per serving (1 of 4):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Net Carbs: 6 g
- Servings: 4 bowls
Final Thoughts
This keto chicken taco soup has become one of my go-to meals when I need something hearty, flavorful, and diabetes-friendly that still pleases the whole family. Whether you’re living in a place with limited ingredients like we do or you just want a quick, reliable dinner, this recipe will serve you well. I hope it brings as much warmth and satisfaction to your table as it does to ours.
Hi, I’m Jason—a dad, home cook, and type 2 diabetic living overseas. I created Clean Eats Hub to help people discover simple, delicious, and health-forward meals that support their personal wellness goals. Whether you’re managing blood sugar, pursuing weight loss, or just trying to eat cleaner, I believe healthy food should never feel like a compromise. Here you’ll find real recipes that work for real life—family-tested, flavor-packed, and always nourishing.
