Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup

Chef Gary W Irvin II
Oct 3
4 min read

Keto diets have surged in popularity, particularly for their weight loss benefits and health improvements. By focusing on low carbohydrate intake and high fat consumption, the ketogenic diet helps the body enter ketosis, a metabolic state where fat becomes the primary energy source instead of carbs. One of the most enjoyable ways to experience a keto diet is through a warm, hearty soup. Today, we will make a mouthwatering Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup, featuring a delightful blend of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing in a creamy, satisfying bowl.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield

This recipe yields 4 servings of 16 oz each.

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 slices of bacon
4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup (150 g) chopped broccoli
1 cup (150 g) chopped cauliflower
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it's crispy. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel. Once cooled, crumble it and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In the same pot, add the boneless chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and allow it to cool for a few minutes before shredding it into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base

Using the same pot, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly until the cheese melts, creating a luscious and creamy soup.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Chicken

Incorporate the chopped broccoli and cauliflower into the pot. Stir in the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. Let the soup continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Your warm and delicious Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup is now ready to enjoy!

Key Flavor Highlights

This soup offers a rich and satisfying combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. The creaminess from the heavy cream and the sharp flavor of cheddar cheese elevate this dish to comfort-food status. Adding crunchy broccoli and cauliflower not only enhances the texture but also contributes essential nutrients to the meal.

Fun Facts About the Ingredients

Chicken: A fantastic lean protein source, chicken contains around 165 calories and 31 grams of protein per 3.5 oz serving, making it ideal for filling yet low-calorie meals.
Bacon: While often seen as a treat, bacon is high in fats and low in carbs, fitting perfectly into the keto plan. A standard slice contains about 42 calories and 3 grams of protein.
Ranch Seasoning: Originating in the 1950s, ranch has become a staple in American cuisine, often enjoyed as a salad dressing or dip. Its creamy, herby flavor is a crowd favorite.
Heavy Cream: With approximately 51 grams of fat per cup and only 6 grams of carbs, heavy cream is an excellent way to add richness to dishes while staying compliant with keto guidelines.
Broccoli and Cauliflower: Both vegetables contain fewer than 5 grams of net carbs per cup while being packed with fiber, making them perfect additions to a keto-friendly soup.

American Nutritional Facts Per Serving

Calories: 550
Total Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 35g

Pro Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Simply shred it and add during the last few minutes of cooking for flavor and ease.
Adjust the Thickness: If you like a thicker soup, simply add a bit more cheese or use less chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Make it Spicy: For some heat, include crushed red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce directly in the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
Gluten-Free: Check that your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free, as some options may contain wheat.

Garnishes to Enhance the Soup

Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle adds a fresh crunch and beautiful color contrast.
Extra Cheese: Additional shredded cheddar on top creates a decadent cheesy finish.
Bacon Crumbles: For those who love bacon, a few more crumbles on top enhances the soup's flavor.

Beverage Pairing Suggestions

Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of unsweetened iced tea complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
Sparkling Water: The carbonation in sparkling water refreshes the palate between bites.
Dry White Wine: A glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, beautifully pairs with the creamy soup.

A Satisfying Meal Choice

Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Soup is a delightful and fulfilling meal that seamlessly fits into a ketogenic lifestyle. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you are preparing it for a cozy dinner or a busy lunch, this easy-to-make recipe packs a nutritional punch while offering comfort with every spoonful. Share this delicious dish with family and friends, and enjoy the tasty combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

With satisfying ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can enjoy a keto-friendly meal that is both delicious and healthy. So grab your apron and prepare to create a bowl of this heartwarming soup!