Ghent Chicken Waterzooi
Quick answer
A medium portion of Ghent Chicken Waterzooi (300 g) contains 345 kcal, with 10.8 g of net carbohydrates and 36 g of protein. Its glycemic index is 35 (Low) for how fast it raises blood sugar, while its glycemic load per portion is 3.8 (Low) for its actual effect.
- Carbs16.2 g17.7%
- Protein36 g39.4%
- Fat17.4 g42.9%
- Fibre5.4 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
This classic soup from the historic city of Ghent in Belgium is a warming, comforting dish for cold winter days. Boneless chicken pieces are cooked with leeks, celery and carrots in a rich stock, which is then thickened with a little fresh cream and egg yolk to give it a velvety golden colour. It contains no flour, has about 12 g of protein per 100 g, and little available carbohydrate (about 3.6 g per 100 g). Our team estimates its glycemic index at about 35 (low), so it suits people with diabetes or insulin resistance, and it is gentle on a sensitive stomach.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
A large bowl (300 g, about 345 kcal and 36 g protein).
Best preparation methods
Use plenty of leek and celery, and stir in the egg yolk and cream at the end over very low heat so the egg does not curdle.
Important Nutritional Note
If you add potatoes, as some restaurants do, keep to a few small pieces or swap them for cauliflower florets to keep the glycemic load low. Cream adds saturated fat, so use only a little if your cholesterol is high.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (300 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 115 kcal | 345 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g | 36 g |
| Carbohydrate | 5.4 g | 16.2 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 3.6 g | 10.8 g |
| Fat | 5.8 g | 17.4 g |
| Dietary fibre | 1.8 g | 5.4 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Soups & home-cooked dishes with a glycemic index (25), it ranks 9 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Ghent Chicken Waterzooi good for weight loss?
It can be a useful part of a weight-loss plan because it provides 10.4 g of protein per 100 kcal, and protein supports fullness. A 300 g portion gives 345 kcal.
How does Ghent Chicken Waterzooi affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 35 (Low), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 300 g portion has a glycemic load of 3.8 (Low), so the effect of this portion on blood sugar is limited.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Ghent Chicken Waterzooi?
A typical 300 g portion of Ghent Chicken Waterzooi provides about 345 kcal, 36 g protein, 16.2 g carbohydrate, 17.4 g fat and 5.4 g fibre.
Is waterzooi a complete meal on a diet?
Yes, it is a complete meal that combines protein from the chicken, fibre from the leek and celery, and fat from the cream and egg yolk, which keep you warm and full for a long time.
How do I make waterzooi suitable for a strict keto diet?
Use less carrot, double the leek, celery and broccoli, and use full-fat cooking cream with the egg yolk.
Are potatoes traditionally added?
Some restaurants add small potato cubes; on a diet, ask for them to be left out or swap them for cauliflower to keep the glycemic load low.
Read also
- Prediabetes: How to Stop the Train and Lower Your HbA1cGuide
- Gestational Diabetes Guide: Normal Levels and Foods to EatGuide
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index of this food is a clinically reviewed estimate by the WiBo Health medical team, not a laboratory measurement from the International GI Tables (Atkinson 2021). GI bands (low ≤ 55 · medium 56–69 · high ≥ 70) follow: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib · Last reviewed 21 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.