Does Chicken Soup Have Carbohydrates? Understanding the Nutrition Diet

November 4, 2025 •

3 min read

While chicken soup is often celebrated for its comforting and hydrating properties, its carbohydrate content is highly dependent on the recipe. So, does chicken soup have carbohydrates? The short answer is yes, but the amount can vary significantly based on whether you add starchy ingredients like noodles or potatoes. Understanding the nutritional components is key to fitting this classic comfort food into your diet plan.

Quick Summary

The carbohydrate count in chicken soup is determined by its specific ingredients. Basic broth and chicken contain very few carbs, while popular additions like noodles or vegetables significantly increase the total. Recipes can be easily modified to be low-carb or keto-friendly by selecting different ingredients.

Key Points

Carb count depends on ingredients: Basic chicken broth is naturally very low in carbohydrates, while additions like noodles and starchy vegetables increase the count significantly.
Low-carb alternatives are available: For keto or low-carb diets, omit noodles and potatoes. Use non-starchy vegetables like celery, spinach, and mushrooms.
Homemade vs. Canned: Homemade soup offers complete control over ingredients and carb content. Canned soups can vary, so it's important to check the nutritional label.
Flavor without carbs: Herbs, spices, lemon juice, and quality broth can add rich flavor to low-carb chicken soup without adding extra carbohydrates.
Thickening without starch: For a creamier, low-carb soup, use heavy cream or cream cheese instead of flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Nutritional benefits remain: Even in a low-carb version, chicken soup provides valuable protein from the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables, in addition to being excellent for hydration.

The Core Components of Chicken Soup

To understand the carbohydrate content of chicken soup, it's essential to break it down by its fundamental parts. The simple foundation of any chicken soup is the broth and the chicken itself, and these are naturally very low in carbohydrates.

Broth and Chicken: Low-Carb Foundations

Chicken Broth: The liquid base, when made from just chicken bones, water, and seasonings, is virtually carbohydrate-free. It primarily offers hydration and minerals. Even store-bought low-sodium chicken broth contains minimal to no carbs.
Chicken Meat: As a lean protein, the shredded or chopped chicken in the soup is also a carb-free ingredient. It provides essential amino acids for muscle health and adds a feeling of fullness without contributing to the carb count.

The Culprits of Carbohydrates

Most of the carbohydrates in a typical chicken soup recipe come from the additional ingredients. These are the components that soup-makers can control to modify the nutritional profile of the dish.

Here are some of the most common sources of carbohydrates in chicken soup:

Noodles: One of the most popular additions, noodles are a significant source of carbohydrates and will immediately raise the carb count of any chicken soup. Egg noodles, pasta, or rice can add substantial carbs, making the traditional chicken noodle soup a higher-carb dish.
Starchy Vegetables: Ingredients like potatoes, carrots, corn, and peas all contain natural carbohydrates. While healthy in moderation, they will contribute to the total carb count, especially if used in large quantities.
Grains and Legumes: Other additions like rice or beans can also add a significant amount of carbs. While they also add fiber and other nutrients, they are not suitable for strict low-carb diets.
Thickeners: Some recipes use flour or cornstarch to thicken the broth, which adds carbohydrates. For a lower-carb option, thickeners can be avoided or replaced with keto-friendly alternatives.

A Low-Carb Alternative: The Power of Ingredient Selection

For those on a keto or low-carb diet, chicken soup can be a beneficial and comforting meal with a few simple adjustments. By focusing on non-starchy vegetables and avoiding grains, you can create a satisfying soup that is very low in carbohydrates.

To make a low-carb chicken soup, consider these swaps:

Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini, shirataki noodles, or finely shredded cabbage.
Use low-carb vegetables such as celery, cauliflower florets, mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers instead of starchy options.
Thicken with cream cheese or heavy cream for a creamy, keto-friendly texture without added carbs.

Carbohydrate Comparison: Common Chicken Soup Variations


Soup Type	Primary Carb Sources	Estimated Net Carbs (per serving)	Suitability for Low-Carb/Keto
Basic Broth with Chicken	No added carbs	Under 5g	Excellent
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup	Egg noodles, carrots, onion	15-25g+	Moderate carb diets only
Creamy Chicken Soup (Keto)	Heavy cream, cream cheese	Under 10g	Excellent
Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup	Carrots, potatoes, corn	20g+	Not ideal for low-carb

Note: Estimates vary based on specific recipes and portion sizes. Always check the nutrition facts for canned or pre-made soups.

Conclusion

While a bowl of plain chicken broth is nearly carbohydrate-free, the answer to does chicken soup have carbohydrates? depends entirely on the added ingredients. Traditional recipes that include noodles, potatoes, and corn will significantly increase the carb count, while simple broths and shredded chicken contain minimal to no carbs. For those on a low-carb or keto diet, homemade chicken soup is a highly versatile and nutritious meal that can be easily customized. By choosing low-carb vegetables and keto-friendly alternatives to noodles and thickeners, you can enjoy this classic comfort food while staying on track with your dietary goals. The key is mindful ingredient selection and a conscious understanding of your recipe's components.

For more information on the health benefits of homemade chicken soup, explore resources like We Count Carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, classic chicken noodle soup is typically high in carbohydrates due to the inclusion of noodles and often starchy vegetables. For example, a single cup of chicken noodle soup can contain 15-25 grams of carbs.

Yes, you can have chicken soup on a keto diet by omitting starchy ingredients like noodles and potatoes. Opt for low-carb vegetables such as celery, mushrooms, and cauliflower instead.

To reduce carbs, use a simple chicken broth base and add non-starchy vegetables like celery, onions, and greens. Substitute noodles with keto-friendly options like zucchini noodles or shredded cabbage.

No, the carb content of chicken soup varies dramatically based on its specific recipe. A plain chicken broth has very few carbs, while a hearty version with potatoes and noodles will have many more.

Good low-carb alternatives to noodles include spiralized zucchini, shirataki noodles, or finely shredded cabbage. These add bulk and texture without the high carb count.

It depends on the brand and recipe. Many canned chicken soups, particularly chunky or noodle varieties, can be high in carbs. Always check the nutrition label for the specific product.

A low-carb, homemade chicken soup can support weight loss by providing a filling, protein-rich meal with minimal calories from carbohydrates. Protein can increase satiety, helping to reduce overall calorie intake.