Irresistible Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Recipe For Dinner

Crafting a delectable pesto chicken cauliflower rice brings together vibrant Mediterranean flavors in one simple, nutritious dish.

Fragrant basil and garlic dance across tender chicken pieces nestled among fluffy cauliflower grains.

Lean protein meets low-carb comfort in this quick weeknight meal that promises satisfaction without heavy calories.

Weeknight cooking becomes an adventure when familiar ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

Herbs and spices transform basic components into a culinary experience you’ll crave repeatedly.

Fresh ingredients guarantee maximum flavor and minimal prep time.

Savor each bite knowing you’ve created a meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Ingredients to Gather for Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower: A versatile vegetable that serves as a low-carb rice alternative in this recipe.
• Chicken: A lean protein that provides substantial nutrition and flavor to the dish.
• Pesto: A flavorful sauce that adds rich herbaceous notes and depth to the chicken and cauliflower rice.

• Tomatoes, Arugula, Fresh Dill: These ingredients add freshness, peppery flavor, and a bright herbal touch to the dish.
• Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor base for the entire recipe.

• Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Milk: These dairy components create a creamy texture and add richness to the cauliflower rice.
• Tomato Paste, Salt, Black Pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile and bring depth to the recipe.
• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté and prevent sticking while adding a subtle flavor base.

Easy Steps to Prepare This Healthy Dish

Step 1: Transform Cauliflower into Rice

Grab your food processor or grater and break down the cauliflower head into rice-like bits. If you’re short on time, pre-made cauliflower rice from the store works perfectly fine.

Step 2: Sizzle Fresh Tomatoes

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in chopped tomatoes and let them dance and caramelize for 1-2 minutes, releasing their sweet, tangy essence.

Step 3: Build Flavor Layers

• Cauliflower rice
• Minced garlic
• Shredded chicken
• Tomato paste
• Pesto
• Salt

Cover and let everything mingle and warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Create Creamy Texture

Pour in milk and sprinkle half the shredded cheese.

Cover again, allowing ingredients to blend and cheese to melt softly for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Flourishes

• Remaining cheese
• Second garlic clove
• Fresh dill
• Arugula

Cook for 2 more minutes until everything harmonizes beautifully.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Plate immediately, optionally garnishing with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra flavor kick.

Tips to Make Your Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Shine

• Use short pulses in the food processor to avoid over-processing cauliflower, ensuring a rice-like texture without turning it mushy.
• Pat cauliflower rice with paper towels to remove excess water, preventing a soggy final dish that lacks proper texture.
• Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for quick preparation, saving time without compromising flavor in this easy meal.
• Choose a high-quality, fresh pesto for maximum flavor impact, as it significantly influences the overall taste of the dish.
• Swap cheeses based on preference or dietary needs – mozzarella, goat cheese, or dairy-free alternatives can work well in this versatile recipe.

Variations to Change Up the Flavor Profile

• Mediterranean Fusion: Replace pesto with sun-dried tomato paste and add kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Swap pesto for chipotle sauce, incorporate black beans, and top with fresh cilantro and jalapeños.
• Low-Carb Protein Power: Use zucchini noodles instead of cauliflower rice, increase chicken portion, and mix in spinach for extra nutrients.
• Herb Garden Blend: Substitute pesto with fresh herb mixture of basil, parsley, and thyme, then sprinkle pine nuts for crunch.

Pairing Ideas That Complement This Dish

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enjoy a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that cuts through the creamy pesto and complements the chicken's savory flavor.
• Complement with Fresh Side Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich pesto chicken and provide a zesty contrast.
• Enhance with Crusty Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted sourdough or ciabatta bread to soak up the delicious pesto sauce and add a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Refresh with Sparkling Water: Add a citrus-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's creamy elements.

How to Keep Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Fresh

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption.
• Pack the cooled dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing if arugula is mixed in, as it will wilt and lose texture.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this pesto chicken cauliflower rice is low-carb and perfect for keto diets. Cauliflower rice replaces traditional grains, keeping the carbohydrate count very low.

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred the meat before adding to the dish for easy preparation.

• What if I don't have fresh dill?

No problem. You can substitute with dried dill or skip it entirely. Fresh parsley also makes a nice alternative herb in this recipe.

• How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply omit the cheese for a lighter version.

Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice That’s Both Fresh and Flavorful

• Boost Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with lean protein from chicken and low-carb cauliflower rice, this dish delivers a healthy alternative to traditional grain-based meals while keeping you satisfied.
• Simplify Meal Prep: Requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients, making it perfect for busy individuals who want a delicious and quick dinner without complicated techniques.
• Customize Your Flavor: Easily adaptable with potential ingredient swaps like different herbs, cheeses, or proteins, allowing you to create a personalized meal that matches your taste preferences.
• One-Pan Wonder: Reduces kitchen cleanup with a single pan cooking method, saving time and energy while creating a delightful meal with minimal dishes to wash afterward.

Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Savor Mediterranean magic with Pesto Chicken Cauliflower Rice, a light yet satisfying dish blending zesty herbs and tender protein. Herb-infused chicken nestles perfectly over fluffy cauliflower rice, creating a wholesome meal that transports you to sunny coastal kitchens.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded chicken
• 2.5 cups cauliflower rice (fresh or store-bought)
• 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Parmesan cheese for topping

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 cup arugula
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons red pesto

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Instructions

1. Transform whole cauliflower into rice-like texture using a food processor or box grater, creating approximately 2½ cups of fluffy cauliflower granules.
2. Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium-high temperature, gently sautéing chopped tomatoes until they soften and release their natural juices, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Introduce minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to prevent burning, then fold in cauliflower rice and shredded chicken, incorporating tomato paste and pesto for robust flavor.
4. Sprinkle half the shredded cheese into the mixture, allowing it to melt gradually while creating a creamy consistency, then pour in milk to enhance texture and richness.
5. Integrate remaining cheese, second garlic portion, fresh dill, and peppery arugula, stirring continuously to distribute ingredients evenly and develop complex flavors.
6. Allow final cooking for 2-3 minutes, ensuring all components are thoroughly heated and harmoniously blended.
7. Transfer immediately to serving plates, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

• Enhance cauliflower rice texture by squeezing out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel after processing, ensuring a less watery final dish.
• Customize protein options by swapping chicken with tofu, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for diverse dietary preferences.
• Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the cooking process for increased vitamins and minerals.
• Control spice levels by incorporating red pepper flakes or using different pesto variations like sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper pesto for unique flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 333 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg