Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup: A Flavor-Packed Low Carb Delight

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Asian Keto Chicken Soup: Low Carb Comfort Delight

After a long day, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup. This aromatic broth filled with tender, ginger-infused chicken meatballs has become my go-to meal when I crave something that’s both satisfying and keto-friendly. The rich umami flavor from the star anise and fish sauce creates a depth that makes this simple soup feel like a restaurant-quality dish, all while keeping your carb count impressively low.

What makes this Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup truly special is how it balances bold Asian flavors with clean, healthy ingredients. As the soup simmers, your kitchen will fill with an enticing fragrance that promises a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re strictly following a ketogenic lifestyle or simply looking for a wholesome, low-carb dinner option, this healthy Asian chicken soup with meatballs delivers on both flavor and nutrition without any unnecessary carbs.

Why You’ll Love This Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

Ingredients for Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

For the Chicken Meatballs:

  • 0.6 lb (270g) ground chicken – For a juicier option, use ground chicken thigh instead of breast
  • 1 Tablespoon (3g) chives, finely chopped – Scallions work great as a substitute
  • 1 Tablespoon (5g) fresh ginger, finely minced – This is crucial for authentic Asian flavor
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tablespoons (30ml) avocado oil – Preferred for its high smoke point, but coconut oil works too

For the Broth:

  • 2.5 cups (600ml) chicken broth – Use homemade for best flavor and control over sodium
  • 2 star anise – These provide the distinctive Asian chicken meatball soup with vegetables flavor
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) fish sauce – Don’t skip this; it adds incredible umami depth
  • 2 green onions (10g), sliced – Reserve some for garnish
  • 5 slices (5g) fresh ginger – Smash slightly to release more flavor

How to Make Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup â€“ Step by Step

Preparing the Meatballs

  1. In a medium bowl, combine ground chicken, minced ginger, chopped chives, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix thoroughly but gently – overmixing will make your meatballs tough.
  3. Using slightly wet hands, form the mixture into 12-14 small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
  4. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Carefully add the meatballs to the hot pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Once cooked, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Creating the Flavorful Broth

  1. In a medium pot, add the chicken broth, star anise, sliced ginger, and fish sauce.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  3. Allow the broth to simmer for about 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  4. Strain the broth to remove the star anise and ginger slices if desired (for a cleaner presentation).
  5. Return the broth to the pot and bring back to a simmer.

Assembling Your Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

  1. Carefully place the cooked meatballs into the simmering broth.
  2. Add most of the sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish.
  3. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes so the meatballs can absorb some of the broth flavor.
  4. Ladle the hot Asian keto chicken meatball soup low carb into serving bowls.
  5. Garnish with the remaining green onions and serve immediately.
Asian Keto Chicken Soup: Low Carb Comfort Delight
Asian Keto Chicken Soup: Low Carb Comfort Delight

Pro Tips for Making the Best Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

  • For a creamy Asian keto chicken meatball soup, add a tablespoon of coconut cream to each serving just before eating.
  • Add a small drizzle of sesame oil just before serving for an authentic Asian restaurant flavor.
  • For additional heat, include a thinly sliced Thai chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
  • Add low-carb vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or mushrooms in the last few minutes of cooking for a more substantial meal.
  • Use chicken meatballs as a base but experiment with other ground meats like pork or turkey for variety.
  • A splash of lime juice just before serving brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness.

Best Ways to Serve Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

This Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup is a complete meal on its own, but there are several ways to enhance the experience:

  • Serve in a deep bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra green onions.
  • Add a side of cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil for a refreshing contrast.
  • For non-keto diners, offer a small side of cauliflower rice to make the meal more substantial.
  • Pair with keto-friendly kimchi for added probiotic benefits and a spicy kick.
  • For a beautiful presentation, add a few fresh cilantro leaves and a lime wedge on the side.

Nutritional Information for Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

  • Calories: 245 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Total Carbs: 5g

This keto-friendly chicken meatball soup Asian style is perfectly balanced for those following a ketogenic diet with its high fat content and minimal carbs. It also provides a good amount of protein to keep you satisfied longer.

Storage & Leftovers

This Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup keeps exceptionally well:

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • To freeze, store the meatballs and broth separately. The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the broth will keep well for about 1 month.
  • For best results when reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until just simmering.
  • The flavor actually improves after a day in the refrigerator as the ingredients have time to meld together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup

What are the benefits of Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup?

Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup offers numerous benefits including being low in carbs (only 4g net carbs per serving), high in protein, and packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger. The broth is hydrating and soothing, while the meatballs provide satisfying protein that helps maintain muscle mass during ketosis.

How to make Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup low carb?

This recipe is naturally low carb as it avoids traditional high-carb ingredients like noodles, cornstarch, or sugar. The soup gets its flavor from herbs, spices, and fish sauce rather than carb-heavy ingredients. For even fewer carbs, you can reduce the amount of chives or substitute with lower-carb herbs.

What ingredients are needed for Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup?

The essential ingredients for Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup include ground chicken, fresh ginger, chives, chicken broth, star anise, fish sauce, and green onions. Optional add-ins include low-carb vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms, additional herbs like cilantro, and garnishes like sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil.

Can I freeze Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup. For best results, freeze the meatballs and broth separately. The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the broth will keep well for about 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup is proof that following a ketogenic diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. With its aromatic broth and tender, ginger-infused meatballs, this soup delivers a satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re strictly keto or simply looking for a wholesome, low-carb option, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

The beauty of this Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. Feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite low-carb vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. And if you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below! What variations did you try? Did you add any special ingredients to make this Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup your own?

Now you have everything you need to create the perfect bowl of Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!

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Asian Keto Chicken Soup: Low Carb Comfort Delight

Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup: A Flavor-Packed Low Carb Delight


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  • Author: Jannet Lisa
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Asian Keto Chicken Meatball Soup, a flavorful and low-carb dish ideal for busy weeknights and anyone following a ketogenic diet. Infused with ginger, star anise, and fish sauce, this soup is aromatic and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 0.6 lb (270g) ground chicken
  • 1 Tablespoon (3g) chives, finely chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon (5g) fresh ginger, finely minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tablespoons (30ml) avocado oil
  • 2.5 cups (600ml) chicken broth
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) fish sauce
  • 2 green onions (10g), sliced
  • 5 slices (5g) fresh ginger

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine ground chicken, minced ginger, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently.
  2. Using slightly wet hands, form the mixture into 12-14 small meatballs. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. In a medium pot, add chicken broth, star anise, sliced ginger, and fish sauce. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
  5. Strain the broth, if desired. Return to the pot and bring back to a simmer.
  6. Place cooked meatballs into the simmering broth. Add most sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
  7. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Garnish with remaining green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Pro tip: Add low-carb vegetables like bok choy or spinach for a more substantial meal.
  • Storage suggestion: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 245
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 19
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 5
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 18
  • Cholesterol: N/A

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