Homemade Low-Carb Chicken Noodle Soup with Shirataki/Zoodles
A comforting, keto-friendly twist on the classic chicken noodle soup using zero-carb noodle alternatives.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
- Cost: $15-20
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Colander
- Measuring spoons/cups
Alternative: Slow cooker or Instant Pot
INGREDIENTS
For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter (30g) [or olive oil]
- 1 small onion, diced (100g)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced (120g)
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (80g)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (2L)
Protein & Noodles:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (300g)
- 2 packages shirataki noodles (400g) [or 2 medium zucchini, spiralized]
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
METHOD
1. Prep Noodles
- If using shirataki: Rinse thoroughly in cold water, boil for 2 minutes, drain.
- If using zucchini: Spiralize and set aside.
2. Sauté Base
- Heat butter in pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic.
- Cook 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add Liquid
- Pour in chicken broth, add thyme and bay leaf if using.
- Bring to boil.
4. Cook Chicken
- Add shredded chicken, reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Finish Soup
- Add prepared noodles, simmer 5 minutes more.
6. Season
- Add salt, pepper, fresh parsley.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Rinse shirataki noodles thoroughly to remove any packaging smell.
- Don’t overcook vegetables – they should remain slightly crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- If using zoodles, add them last to prevent mushiness.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 4 days.
- Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping the shirataki rinse step.
- Overcooking the vegetables.
- Under-seasoning the broth.
Variations
- Asian-style: Add ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil.
- Spicy: Include red pepper flakes.
- Herbal: Add rosemary, sage, or oregano.
- Vegetarian: Use mushrooms instead of chicken and vegetable broth.
Remember to taste as you go – proper seasoning is key to a flavorful soup that rivals traditional versions!
