Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice Recipe

You’re in for a real treat with this Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice! Imagine a hearty, soul-warming stew packed with juicy morsels of chicken, mellowed by a medley of vegetables, all swirling together in a broth that’s rich without weighing you down. Every spoonful bursts with freshly-ground spices and comforting flavor, while the cauliflower rice underneath soaks up all those savory juices, delivering that familiar comfort-food feeling—without the carb-heavy guilt. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want an easy, nourishing meal that fits your keto lifestyle, this dish brings a whole lot of joy to the table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe pulls its weight, bringing not only flavor and color but that crave-worthy texture you want in a stew. These are all straightforward, everyday items—proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated!

• Chicken thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor; they’ll turn meltingly tender as they simmer.
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle is perfect for sautéing and building a rich base.
• Onion: Chopped finely, onion adds subtle sweetness and depth—a must for any great stew.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic injects warmth and irresistible aroma.
• Celery stalks: Sliced celery brings mild, earthy crunch that’s classic in any stew.
• Carrot: One large carrot, diced, for pops of color and natural sweetness—don’t worry, it’s still very low carb!
• Bell pepper: Red bell pepper offers a sweet contrast and a gorgeous pop of color.
• Crushed tomatoes: Use canned or fresh to create a flavorful, slow-simmered base.
• Chicken broth: This helps tie everything together and keeps the stew saucy and satisfying.
• Italian seasoning: A classic blend—dried oregano, basil, and thyme—for that timeless herby note.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a whisper of smokiness and deep color to the stew.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for letting all the other flavors shine.
• Cauliflower rice: The perfect stand-in for traditional rice—light, fluffy, and absolutely keto-friendly.
• Fresh parsley: For a burst of green and freshness to finish off the dish with flair.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat up a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add your onions and let them soften until translucent, stirring often to avoid any browning. Once they’re tender, toss in the garlic, celery, carrot, and bell pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it all mingle together until the vegetables are just starting to get soft and fragrant. This base builds a flavor foundation you’ll taste through every bite of your Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice.

Step 2: Add and Brown the Chicken

Push the veggies to the side and lay your chicken thighs right into that golden, aromatic oil. Let them sear undisturbed for a couple minutes per side—you want that deep, flavorful browning that only happens when you give chicken some alone time with the pan. This step locks in juices and adds that hearty stew flavor we crave.

Step 3: Layer in Spices and Tomatoes

As soon as the chicken is lightly golden, sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices bloom for a minute, then pour in your crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom—those are pure flavor!

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and veggies are just covered. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover. Let the stew cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is perfectly tender and all those flavors have married. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing!

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Finish Stew

Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. Stir well so the pieces soak up all the savory goodness. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If the stew’s looking too thick, splash in a little extra broth; if too thin, simmer with the lid off for a few minutes to reduce.

Step 6: Prepare the Keto Cauliflower Rice

Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your riced cauliflower with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of olive oil. Sauté just until the cauliflower is fluffy and tender—about 5 minutes. No mush here! Keep it light, so it acts as the perfect canvas for the stew.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Spoon generous helpings of savory stew over a bed of keto cauliflower rice. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top, and you’re ready to dive in! Every bite of this Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice will have you looking forward to leftovers.

How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and color, but don’t stop there! A squeeze of lemon gives a pop of acidity that lifts all the flavors, and a sprinkle of grated parmesan or crumbled feta is never a bad idea. Flavorful finishing oils (like a good extra-virgin olive oil) drizzled over the top add a luxe touch you—and your guests—will absolutely love.

Side Dishes

This stew is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans tossed with garlic, or sautéed spinach. If you want to keep things ultra low carb, roasted asparagus or zucchini ribbons are delicious alongside Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy gathering, serve the stew in rustic stoneware bowls piled high with cauliflower rice, then top with a swirl of creamy Greek yogurt or a dusting of smoked paprika. If you’re aiming for a dinner party vibe, layer the cauliflower rice in individual ramekins, spoon on the stew, and let guests mix as they eat. It’s even fun to set up a hearty “stew bar,” with bowls of garnishes so guests can customize their perfect bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the stew cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days—the flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers taste even better! Store the cauliflower rice separately to keep it from getting soggy.

Freezing

Both the chicken stew and the keto cauliflower rice freeze well. Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers and lay the cauliflower rice in a thin layer for easy reheating. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the stew gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally so everything heats evenly and stays moist. The cauliflower rice reheats best in a skillet, stirred for a few minutes until hot—this keeps it fluffy, never soggy. If you’re microwaving, spread the rice thinly on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sauté the aromatics and brown the chicken in a skillet first for best flavor, then transfer everything (except the cauliflower rice) to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Sauté the cauliflower rice just before serving.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works just fine if you prefer leaner meat. Be careful not to overcook, as breast can dry out more quickly—consider reducing the simmer time slightly for perfectly juicy pieces.

Is this dish spicy?

By default, the Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice is mild and family-friendly. If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.

How do I make my own cauliflower rice?

Making keto cauliflower rice is a breeze! Just pulse fresh cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble grains of rice—don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with mush. Store-bought is also totally convenient for busy nights.

Can I add more veggies to the stew?

Definitely! Spinach, kale, or even chopped zucchini can go right into the stew toward the end of cooking. Just be mindful to keep things low carb and add greens just before serving so they stay vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Chicken Stew with Keto Cauliflower Rice truly brings together everything I love about comfort food—hearty, healthy, and unbelievably flavorful. Whether you’re keto or just looking for a lighter take on a classic, this recipe fits the bill. I hope you’ll give it a try and let it become a staple in your kitchen too!

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