Chicken & Chorizo Stew

Chicken & Chorizo Stew: Comfort in a Bowl with a Kick of Flavor

Let’s be honest—sometimes you just want a big bowl of something warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. That’s exactly what this Chicken & Chorizo Stew delivers. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug from the inside out. Whether it’s chilly outside or you just need some good old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe is the answer.

But don’t let the word “stew” fool you. This dish isn’t heavy, bland, or boring. It’s bold, smoky, a little spicy, and brimming with texture. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and can be done in one pot. Fewer dishes? Yes, please.

Why Chicken and Chorizo?

This combo works because it’s all about balance. The chicken brings lean, tender protein while the chorizo adds bold flavor, spice, and richness. When you simmer them together with tomatoes, herbs, and a few simple veggies, something magical happens. The stew thickens into this beautiful, flavorful broth that clings to every bite.

You don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking techniques—just real food, layered flavors, and a little patience while everything simmers to perfection.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this stew so satisfying:

Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful. You could use breasts, but thighs hold up better during a long simmer.

Chorizo – Spanish or smoked chorizo is best. It gives the dish that smoky, spicy depth that really makes the stew shine.

Onion & garlic – The classic aromatic base.

Bell peppers – I love using red or yellow for sweetness and color.

Crushed tomatoes – Helps build a rich, savory base.

Chicken broth – Adds depth and keeps the stew light but hearty.

Smoked paprika, oregano, and bay leaf – Just the right blend of spices.

Olive oil, salt, pepper – The usual suspects.

Optional additions? A little kale or spinach stirred in at the end. Or maybe some olives if you want a Mediterranean twist.

How to Make It (One Pot Wonder!)

Here’s how it all comes together:

Brown the chorizo. Heat a little olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the sliced or diced chorizo and cook until it starts to brown and release its oils. That oil is pure flavor gold.

Add the chicken. Push the chorizo to the side and add your chicken pieces. Brown them on both sides—don’t worry about cooking them through just yet. You want that golden sear.

Sauté your aromatics. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Let them cook down for about 5 minutes until they soften and start to pick up the chorizo flavor.

Add tomatoes and spices. Stir in crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Let everything come together.

Pour in the broth. Add enough chicken broth to just cover the ingredients. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it gently cook for 30–40 minutes. The chicken will become tender, the sauce will thicken, and the flavors will deepen beautifully.

Finish it up. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add greens if using, and let them wilt for a few minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Stew

Aside from how flavorful it is, this stew is incredibly keto- and low-carb-friendly. There are no potatoes, no beans, no thickeners—just real ingredients that keep things clean and satisfying. It’s rich without being heavy and comforting without knocking you out.

You can eat it as is in a bowl, or spoon it over cauliflower rice for a heartier meal. It even reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

And honestly, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Serve this to friends or family, and no one will even know it’s a low-carb dish. It’s just that good.

A Few Tips to Make It Even Better

Use good-quality chorizo. It makes a difference. Look for one with real spices and minimal fillers.

Don’t skip the browning step. That caramelization is what builds the flavor base of the stew.

Let it sit. If you have time, make the stew a few hours ahead or even a day before. Like most stews, the flavor deepens with time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, full of bold flavor, and perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping, this Chicken & Chorizo Stew should be at the top of your list. It’s the kind of recipe that feels rustic and homey, but still delivers restaurant-level taste.

So grab your pot, gather a few simple ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a low-carb stew that checks every box—comforting, filling, flavorful, and totally satisfying.