There’s something undeniably inviting about the scent of garlic sizzling in butter—it feels like a warm embrace in the kitchen. The moment I decided to whip up this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice, I knew I was in for a treat. This dish makes any weeknight feel special, combining crispy, golden chicken with creamy, savory cauliflower rice that even the pickiest eaters will adore.
As the sun sets and the hustle of the day fades, I find joy in creating meals that nourish both body and soul. This flavorful pairing is gluten-free and low-carb, perfect for anyone seeking a quick dinner choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re embarking on a keto journey or simply looking to shake off fast food monotony, this dish hits all the marks.
Ready to dive into a plate that’s not only satisfying but also a delight to prepare? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dinner that dazzles the taste buds and satisfies the stomach.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter coating creates a rich, savory taste that mixes beautifully with the fluffy parmesan cauliflower rice.
Healthy Choice: This dish is both gluten-free and low-carb, making it perfect for keto dieters or anyone seeking a nutritious meal.
Family Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the delightful flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Versatile Base: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the spices for a personalized touch. If you’re looking for more quick dinner ideas, check out our other quick keto recipes!
Time-Saving: Whip it up in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein; forms the dish’s base, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a crispy, flavorful crust; can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; in a pinch, garlic powder works too.
- Paprika – Enhances flavor and color; smoked paprika adds even more depth.
- Italian Seasoning – A mix that complements the chicken; feel free to use oregano or basil instead.
- Butter – Used for sautéing and making the cauliflower rice creamy; olive oil is a lighter alternative.
For the Cauliflower Rice
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative to regular rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- Vegetable Stock – Adds moisture and flavor to the cauliflower rice; chicken stock provides a richer taste.
- Fresh Parsley – For garnish and freshness; substitute with basil if you’d like a different twist.
- Lemon Juice (optional) – Brightens the dish nicely; you can leave it out if you prefer a less tangy flavor.
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice is packed with flavor and is perfect for quick dinners!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
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Prepare Chicken: In a shallow plate, blend parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then coat it in the parmesan mixture for a crispy crust.
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Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Make Cauliflower Rice: Using the same skillet, add more butter and melt it. Sauté garlic and onion for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in cauliflower rice and cook for another minute.
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Add Flavor: Pour in the vegetable stock and sprinkle half the parsley along with the lemon zest. Cook until the juices reduce, then stir in lemon juice and adjust any seasonings as needed.
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Combine and Serve: Place the crispy chicken over the cauliflower rice to reheat for a minute. Feel free to serve garnished with cracked black pepper and additional parmesan for that extra touch of goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice Variations
Feel free to customize this dish with exciting twists to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
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Veggie-Packed: Add colorful bell peppers or spinach to the sauté for a nutritious boost and vibrant presentation.
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Spice It Up: For some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne to the seasoning mix, igniting your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, creating an aromatic experience that elevates the dish.
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Zucchini Noodles: Replace cauliflower rice with spiralized zucchini for a fun, low-carb alternative that adds a fresh crunch.
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Crispy Topping: For an added crunch, toss in some toasted almond slivers or gluten-free breadcrumbs at the end of cooking.
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Zesty Kick: Drizzle with a homemade garlic lemon sauce for an extra layer of brightness that will uplift every bite.
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Protein Variations: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit different dietary preferences while keeping the dish satisfying and delicious.
With these variations, you can tailor this delightful recipe to delight your palate and keep every dinner exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and dredge the chicken in the parmesan mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Additionally, the cauliflower rice can be prepped and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, consider sautéing the rice right before serving, ensuring it remains fluffy and absorbs the flavors beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply cook the chicken and reheat the cauliflower rice together in a skillet for quick and effortless restaurant-quality results!
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken
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Non-Stick Skillet: Use a non-stick skillet to perfectly cook the chicken and prevent the parmesan from sticking, ensuring a crispy crust.
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Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking and ultimate crispiness.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when seasoning the chicken. This enhances the overall flavor and makes your garlic butter chicken irresistible.
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Veggie Swaps: Feel free to substitute cauliflower rice with other low-carb veggies like riced broccoli or zucchini noodles for a fun twist that maintains the spirit of the dish.
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Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken juicy and the cauliflower rice fluffy.
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Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also brightens the flavor profile, making your garlic butter chicken with cauliflower rice truly shine.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice?
Crafting a wholesome meal experience means finding the perfect side dishes that beautifully complement the rich flavors of your main dish.
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Garlic Bread: The essence of garlic bread adds a comforting crunch that balances the creamy cauliflower rice with its crispy texture.
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Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant green veggie offers a fresh bite, elevating the flavors of the garlic butter chicken while adding a lovely pop of color.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing offer a delightful contrast to the savory richness of the chicken.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: When roasted until caramelized, these little green gems bring earthy flavors and texture to your meal, making each bite exciting.
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Zucchini Noodles: Low-carb and versatile, this substitution for pasta absorbs the garlic flavor, adding freshness without weighing down the dish.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and invigorates your dining experience, keeping it light yet enjoyable.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this decadent treat is an indulgent way to round off your meal, creating a satisfying sweet finish after the savory main dish.
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Sauteed Spinach: A quick sauté adds a vibrant color and nutrient boost, pairing perfectly with the butteriness of the chicken and the creaminess of the rice.
Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the garlic butter chicken and cauliflower rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep moisture and flavor intact.
Note: When storing, ensure the garlic butter chicken is fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect the taste and texture.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cauliflower for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting cauliflower, look for heads that are firm, dense, and free of dark spots or blemishes. The leaves should be vibrant and green, which indicates freshness. If you see any brown spots or a mushy texture, it’s best to pass on that head.
How long can I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool down to room temperature before sealing to maintain its tenderness. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook it.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken and Cauliflower Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the garlic butter chicken and cauliflower rice in separate airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat on low heat while adding a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist and flavorful.
What if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
If the chicken is too thick, consider pounding it to an even thickness before breading. This ensures even cooking and a lovely crispiness. Additionally, cooking on medium-high heat allows for a quick sear while keeping the inside juicy. Always use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Great question! If anyone has a dairy allergy, you can easily swap the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Additionally, ensure that the butter is replaced with a dairy-free alternative or olive oil for sautéing.
Can my pets eat the leftovers?
It’s best not to share any leftovers with your pets, especially the garlic and onion in the dish, which can be harmful to them. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends safe and healthy!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice for Quick Keto Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow plate, blend parmesan, minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season your chicken with salt and pepper, then coat it in the parmesan mixture for a crispy crust.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add more butter and melt it. Sauté garlic and onion for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in cauliflower rice and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and sprinkle half the parsley along with the lemon zest. Cook until the juices reduce, then stir in lemon juice and adjust any seasonings as needed.
- Place the crispy chicken over the cauliflower rice to reheat for a minute. Feel free to serve garnished with cracked black pepper and additional parmesan for that extra touch of goodness!