When the winter wind howls outside, nothing beats a steaming bowl of soup. You want that classic, cozy feeling without the heavy carbs. This Keto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Soup is your new best friend for chilly evenings.
It delivers all the nostalgia of traditional chicken noodle soup. However, we swap the pasta for light, tender cauliflower rice. This recipe is the ultimate healthy reset for your busy weeknights.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
You will love how this dish fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. It uses juicy chicken thighs for extra flavor and healthy fats. This one-pot wonder means you spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing.
It is incredibly budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients from your pantry. Your family will enjoy the tender chicken and savory broth in every bite. It is a guilt-free way to satisfy those deep comfort food cravings.
Easy Cooking Steps
Making this soup is a breeze, even for beginner cooks. You start by softening fresh vegetables to build a flavor base. Then, everything simmers together in one pot until perfectly tender and fragrant.
There are no complicated techniques or fancy tools required here. You can have a nourishing meal on the table in about 35 minutes. It is a stress-free solution for those hectic “what’s for dinner” moments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on fresh produce and hearty pantry staples for the best results.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 0.25 cups yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 ounces riced cauliflower
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
- Heat the avocado oil in a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the celery and onion. Sauté for 6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken bone broth and bring to a steady simmer.
- Add the cubed chicken thighs and riced cauliflower to the pot.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the salt and black pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve your warm bowls immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this soup in deep bowls while it is piping hot and aromatic. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green side salad. You could also serve it with keto-friendly crackers for a nice crunch.
For a special touch, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This brightens the flavors and makes the savory broth really pop. It is the perfect meal for a quiet, cozy night in.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat.
The cauliflower rice may soften slightly as it sits in the broth. This actually makes the soup feel even more hearty and thick. It is a fantastic option for easy weekday lunches the next day.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika for a subtle, earthy depth.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more tender, juicy meat.
- Avoid overcooking the cauliflower rice so it keeps a nice texture.
- Use high-quality bone broth to maximize the nutritional benefits.
- For a healthy reset, double the vegetables like celery and onion.
- Garnish with extra parsley right before serving for a fresh finish.
- Check the chicken with a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens.
- Swap the thyme for rosemary for a different herbal aroma.
- In the spring, add some fresh asparagus tips to the simmer.
- Use leftover roasted turkey instead of chicken for a quick version.
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer, velvety texture.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, frozen cauliflower rice works perfectly in this recipe. You do not even need to thaw it before adding. Simply toss it into the simmering broth with the chicken.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
This soup freezes quite well for up to three months. Just be sure to leave some space in your container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.
Will my kids actually eat cauliflower rice?
Most kids find cauliflower rice very mild in this savory soup. It absorbs the flavor of the broth and chicken beautifully. It is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.
I hope this Keto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Soup brings warmth to your table. It is the perfect way to stay on track while enjoying a cozy meal. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 stalks celery , finely chopped
- 0.25 cups yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 ounces riced cauliflower
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat the avocado oil in a 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped celery and onion. Sauté for 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and the celery has softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 60 seconds until the aromatics release their essential oils and become fragrant.
- Pour the chicken bone broth into the pot and increase the heat to medium-high to achieve a steady simmer.
- Submerge the cubed chicken thighs and the riced cauliflower into the simmering liquid.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the pot from the heat source and incorporate the salt and black pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
