Chicken noodle soup and diabetes can be a comforting and nutritious option for individuals with diabetes when prepared with careful consideration of ingredients.
Since diabetes management involves monitoring carbohydrate intake and keeping blood sugar levels stable, choosing the right types of noodles, controlling portion sizes, and avoiding high-sodium broths are crucial.
By opting for whole-grain noodles, lean chicken, and plenty of non-starchy vegetables, chicken noodle soup can offer a wholesome, diabetes-friendly meal that warms the body and nourishes without spiking blood sugar levels.
How To Make Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes?
Recipe Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Soup, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breastshttps://www.gimmesomeoven.com/baked-chicken-breast/, cubed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole wheat noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
Instructions
1. Sauté The Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Vegetables And Chicken
Toss in the sliced carrots and celery. Stir well and let them cook for about 5 minutes. Next, add the cubed chicken breast and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
3. Pour In The Broth And Season
Add the low-sodium chicken broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Add Noodles And Simmer
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the whole wheat noodles and cook for about 12-15 minutes until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally.
5. Final Touches
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding spinach, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
Serving Suggestions Of Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes
1. Fresh Herb Garnish
I love to add fresh parsley or cilantro right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fresh and vibrant look.
2. Side Salad
Pair the chicken noodle soup with a simple mixed greens salad for extra fiber. A light lemon vinaigrette can be the perfect complement.
3. Low-Carb Option
For those looking to further lower the carb content, consider substituting the whole wheat noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. These are both great low-carb alternatives.
Tips And Variations Of Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes
1. Make It Low-Carb
Swap out the whole wheat noodles for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to make this recipe more suitable for a low-carb diet.
2. Add More Veggies
Feel free to add other non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients and fiber.
3. Spice It Up
If you enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicier kick.
Health Benefits Of Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes
1. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
This soup is high in protein and fiber, both of which help slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. Whole wheat noodles provide complex carbs that don’t spike blood sugar like regular pasta might.
2. Heart-Healthy Ingredients
Olive oil, low-sodium broth, and lean chicken breast contribute to a heart-healthy dish that’s good for people managing diabetes. Reducing sodium helps control blood pressure, which is crucial for diabetic heart health.
3. Packed With Nutrients
The vegetables in this soup are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Spinach adds a dose of iron and magnesium, while carrots contribute beta-carotene.
Special Note
I always remind myself that portion control is essential, especially when managing diabetes. Eating balanced meals with moderate servings of carbs, proteins, and healthy fats can make a big difference in maintaining blood sugar levels.
This soup fits right into that balance, and you can enjoy it without worry, knowing it’s packed with nutritious ingredients.
Conclusion
Chicken noodle soup is a timeless classic, and with a few mindful tweaks, it can become a healthy option for those managing diabetes. By using whole wheat noodles, low-sodium broth, and plenty of lean chicken and veggies, this recipe not only tastes great but also helps you keep your blood sugar in check.
I love making this soup for lunch or dinner when I need something comforting, satisfying, and nutritious. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a go-to in my kitchen!
Chicken Noodle Soup And Diabetes
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Â
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 medium carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breastshttps://www.gimmesomeoven.com/baked-chicken-breast/, cubed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole wheat noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups baby spinach optional
InstructionsÂ
Sauté The Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Vegetables And Chicken
- Toss in the sliced carrots and celery. Stir well and let them cook for about 5 minutes. Next, add the cubed chicken breast and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
Pour In The Broth And Season
- Add the low-sodium chicken broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add Noodles And Simmer
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the whole wheat noodles and cook for about 12-15 minutes until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally.
Final Touches
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding spinach, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.