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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Transform whole cauliflower into rice-like texture using a food processor or box grater, creating approximately 2½ cups of fluffy cauliflower granules.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Integrate remaining cheese, second garlic portion, fresh dill, and peppery arugula, stirring continuously to distribute ingredients evenly and develop complex flavors.
- Allow final cooking for 2-3 minutes, ensuring all components are thoroughly heated and harmoniously blended.
- 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