Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
If you’re on the lookout for a wholesome, comforting dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice is the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy cauliflower rice, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish is bound to impress with its savory goodness and simplicity.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice truly special is its ability to satisfy your cravings while being a lighter alternative to traditional rice dishes. The cauliflower rice adds a nutritious twist, making it low in carbs without skimping on taste. The dish is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, thanks to the combination of butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
What Goes Into Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter – for sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion – adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into one-inch pieces – the main protein of the dish.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – for a burst of herby flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – brings aromatic goodness.
- 16 ounces cauliflower rice, frozen or thawed – a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
- Salt and pepper to taste – for seasoning.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – to add moisture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – for creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a cheesy, savory finish.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you dive into cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Large skillet – for cooking everything in one pan.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onion and chicken.
Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice in Steps
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add in the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This will form the flavor base for your dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add the 1 1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cauliflower Rice
Stir in the 16 ounces of cauliflower rice, mixing well to combine. If you’re using frozen cauliflower rice, allow it to thaw and heat through.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, ensuring the cauliflower rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice into bowls and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking to keep this recipe even lower in carbs or want to mix it up, consider the following alternatives:
- Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter sauce.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrients.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the dish for extra flavor and texture.
Troubles You Can Avoid
Cooking can sometimes lead to mishaps, but here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this can prevent proper browning.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- If using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure to thaw it completely to avoid excess water in the dish.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), here’s how to store your Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creaminess. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Questions People Ask
Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cauliflower, you can pulse it in a food processor until it resembles rice. Just be sure to cook it a bit longer to ensure it’s tender.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a delicious, dairy-free version.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Simply divide it into portions and store in the fridge or freezer.
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or mixing in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
In Closing
This Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It delivers all the comforting flavors you crave while keeping things light and healthy. With its creamy sauce, savory chicken, and fluffy cauliflower rice, it’s a meal that everyone will love and ask for seconds! Give this recipe a try, and watch as it becomes a staple in your household. The combination of simplicity and flavor makes it a winner every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add in the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Next, add the 1 1/2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the 16 ounces of cauliflower rice, mixing well to combine. If using frozen cauliflower rice, allow it to thaw and heat through.
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Spoon the Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice into bowls and enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating for creaminess.
- Freeze for up to 2 months, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
