Keto Creamy Chicken Stew

Ingredients

All Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup celery, chopped
• ½x onion, chopped
• ⅓ cup carrots, matchstick-cut
• 3 tsp garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups kale, cut into pieces
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• A pinch of salt, to taste
• A pinch of pepper, black, to taste

Directions

Notes

Ingredient Notes

The ingredient list above gives the exact quantities. These notes explain what each one contributes to the stew.

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs stay tender during the long slow-cooker cook and give the stew plenty of savory flavor.
• Olive oil: Use it to sear the chicken before the pieces go into the slow cooker.
• Celery: Chopped celery adds an earthy flavor and a little texture.
• Onion: Onion provides the savory base for the broth.
• Matchstick carrots: The thin pieces add color and a touch of sweetness while cooking evenly.
• Minced garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, savory note to the stew.
• Ranch seasoning: The herb-and-spice blend seasons the broth without requiring a long list of separate seasonings.
• Chicken broth: This forms the liquid base of the stew. Choose a lower-sodium broth if you want more control over the final seasoning.
• Kale: Kale adds color and texture during the final hour of cooking.
• Heavy whipping cream: Cream gives the broth its rich, velvety consistency.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste after accounting for the sodium in the broth and ranch seasoning.

Tools

• Skillet: Use a skillet or frying pan to sear the chicken before transferring it to the slow cooker.
• Slow cooker: Choose one large enough to hold the chicken, vegetables, broth, kale, and cream without overfilling it.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: Use these to cut the chicken and vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
• Spatula or tongs: Either works for turning the chicken and transferring it to the slow cooker.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Measure the broth, cream, vegetables, and seasonings before adding them.
• Large spoon: Use it to stir in the cream and kale.

Preparation

• Chop the celery, onion, kale, and garlic and measure the ranch seasoning before you start cooking.
• While the chicken sears, arrange the remaining ingredients near the slow cooker so the transfer between steps is quick.

Storage

• Let leftovers cool, then transfer them to airtight containers and refrigerate them within two hours.
• Divide the stew into individual portions if you want to reheat only what you need.
• Refrigerate the stew for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freeze cooled stew in freezer-safe containers with a little headspace. The cream may separate slightly after thawing, but gentle reheating and stirring can help bring the broth back together.
• Thaw frozen stew in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish the stew with chopped fresh parsley or chives if you like. For a larger meal, pair it with cauliflower rice, keto biscuits, or a slice of keto bread.