Description
Hearty Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice delivers Mediterranean flavors in a single skillet, blending zesty herbs with tender chicken and low-carb rice alternative. Healthy, quick weeknight dinners welcome this protein-packed meal that satisfies without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded chicken
- 2 ½ cups cauliflower rice
- ⅔ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 tomato, chopped
Herbs and Spices:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for topping
Liquid and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons red pesto
Instructions
- Transform whole cauliflower into fine rice-like texture using a food processor or box grater, aiming for approximately 2 ½ cups of fluffy cauliflower granules.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet, introducing chopped tomatoes and allowing them to caramelize and intensify flavors for roughly 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate minced garlic into the tomato base, then gently fold in shredded chicken, creating a harmonious protein mixture.
- Drizzle tomato paste and vibrant pesto throughout the skillet, ensuring each ingredient becomes thoroughly coated and seasoned with a delicate salt sprinkle.
- Cover the skillet, allowing ingredients to meld and steam together for 3-4 minutes, creating a cohesive and aromatic foundation.
- Introduce milk and half the shredded cheese, stirring continuously to develop a creamy, integrated texture.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese, second garlic portion, fresh dill, and peppery arugula into the mixture, stirring to distribute flavors evenly.
- Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring ingredients are completely heated and intertwined.
- Transfer the fragrant mixture onto serving plates, garnishing with optional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Cauliflower Rice Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel to prevent a soggy dish and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- Chicken Prep Hack: Use rotisserie chicken or quickly shred leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Low-Carb Delight: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those watching their car
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg