How Many Calories in Homemade Chicken Soup Without Noodles? A Complete Breakdown

Ah chicken soup – that magical elixir we all crave when fighting a cold or just needing some comfort on a chilly winter day. I’ve been making homemade chicken soup for years and one question that keeps popping up from my health-conscious friends is about its calorie content. So today, let’s dive into exactly how many calories are in homemade chicken soup without noodles and what factors affect this number.

The Quick Answer: Calorie Count in Homemade Chicken Soup

If you’re just looking for the straight answer without all the details. here it is

A typical serving (approximately 1 cup or 240ml) of homemade chicken soup without noodles usually contains between 70 and 120 calories.

According to Eat This Much, their chicken no-noodle soup recipe contains about 120 calories per serving, with a macronutrient breakdown of 16% carbs, 47% fat, and 37% protein.

But wait – these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on what ingredients you use and how you prepare your soup Let’s break this down further.

Factors That Influence Calorie Content in Chicken Soup

The calorie count in your homemade chicken soup can fluctuate based on several key factors:

1. Chicken Cut Choice

The type of chicken you use makes a huge difference:

• Skinless chicken breast: Leanest option with fewer calories
• Chicken thighs with skin: Significantly higher in fat and calories

For example, the recipe from Berly’s Kitchen uses boneless skinless chicken breasts to keep the calorie count lower, at approximately 107 calories per cup.

2. Broth Base

Your broth choice matters tremendously:

• Homemade chicken broth (defatted): Around 10-20 calories per cup
• Store-bought broths: Varies widely and often contains added sodium

3. Vegetable Content

Veggies add nutrients without many calories:

• Non-starchy vegetables (carrots, celery, onions): Minimal calories
• Starchy vegetables (potatoes, corn): Higher in calories

4. Added Fats

This is where calories can really add up:

• Olive oil or butter for sautéing: The Berly’s Kitchen recipe uses 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• Cream additions: Dramatically increases calorie count

5. Seasonings

While most herbs and spices are virtually calorie-free, some seasoning blends might contain hidden sugars.

A Typical Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe and Its Calorie Breakdown

Let’s look at a basic chicken soup recipe without noodles (similar to Berly’s Kitchen recipe) and break down where the calories come from:

As you can see, when you divide the total calories by the number of servings (about 12 cups), you end up with approximately 100-107 calories per cup, which aligns with the general range mentioned earlier.

Tips for Making Low-Calorie Chicken Soup

If you’re watching your calorie intake, here are some tips I’ve learned for making a delicious but lighter chicken soup:

1. Choose Lean Protein

Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast instead of fattier cuts. You’ll save about 50 calories per serving.

2. Make Your Own Broth

When I make homemade broth, I refrigerate it first so the fat solidifies on top, then I skim it off before using. This simple step can save 20-30 calories per cup.

3. Load Up on Non-Starchy Veggies

Fill your soup with carrots, celery, onions, zucchini, and leafy greens. They add volume and nutrients without many calories.

4. Minimize Added Fats

Instead of sautéing vegetables in oil, try using a small amount of broth or water. This technique alone can save up to 40 calories per serving.

5. Add Flavor Without Calories

Use herbs, spices, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance flavor without adding calories.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Chicken Soup Calories

Store-bought chicken soups typically contain more sodium and often more calories than homemade versions. Many commercial varieties range from 100-200 calories per cup, even without noodles, due to added oils, thickeners, and sometimes sugar.

By making soup at home, you control exactly what goes in, which usually results in a healthier, lower-calorie option.

Why Chicken Soup Without Noodles Is Great for Weight Management

With just about 100 calories per cup, chicken soup without noodles can be an excellent option if you’re watching your weight. Here’s why:

• High satiety factor: The protein and fiber help you feel full
• Hydrating: The broth base provides fluid
• Nutrient-dense: Provides vitamins and minerals for relatively few calories
• Warming and satisfying: Helps prevent cravings for higher-calorie comfort foods

As one commenter on Berly’s Kitchen noted: “I love this recipe… it’s wonderful for the no carb diet.”

Common Questions About Chicken Soup Calories

Does the cooking method affect the calorie count?

The cooking method itself (simmering, boiling, pressure cooking) doesn’t significantly impact the calorie count. What matters more is what ingredients you use and in what quantities.

How do I accurately calculate calories in my homemade soup?

The most accurate method is to use a calorie tracking app and input each ingredient individually, accounting for specific quantities and brands.

Is chicken soup without noodles good for weight loss?

Yes! With its low calorie count (70-120 per cup) and high satiety factor, it’s an excellent option for weight management. The broth and vegetables provide hydration and fiber, promoting fullness.

What about using rotisserie chicken to save time?

Using rotisserie chicken (skinless) can be a convenient option. Just be mindful that it may contain more sodium and potentially more fat than poached chicken breast. I like to remove the skin to keep the calorie count lower.

My Go-To Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe (Without Noodles)

Here’s the simple recipe I use when I want a comforting, low-calorie soup:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (can reduce to 1 Tbsp to lower calories)
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-low heat.
2. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, broth, and chicken breast.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook over medium heat for 60-90 minutes until chicken easily shreds.
6. Remove chicken, shred it using two forks, then return to the pot.
7. Add fresh parsley, stir to combine, and serve hot.

This recipe makes about 12 servings at approximately 107 calories per cup.

Storing and Freezing Your Chicken Soup

One great thing about making chicken soup without noodles is that it freezes beautifully! I always make a big batch and freeze individual portions for quick, healthy meals. Unlike soups with pasta, you won’t end up with mushy noodles when reheating.

Your homemade chicken soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

At around 70-120 calories per cup, homemade chicken soup without noodles is truly one of the most nutritious, satisfying, and calorie-efficient meals you can make. It’s high in protein, loaded with vegetables, and incredibly comforting.

By understanding what contributes to the calorie content, you can adjust your recipe to suit your nutritional needs while still enjoying this timeless comfort food. Whether you’re fighting a cold, trying to lose weight, or just craving something warm and delicious, chicken soup without noodles is a fantastic option.

So next time someone asks you “how many calories in homemade chicken soup without noodles?” – you’ll have the complete answer ready to go!