Cauliflower Rice Bowl With Chicken

This vibrant Cauliflower Rice Bowl is a nutritious and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking a light, low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes. Featuring a colorful array of fresh vegetables and lean protein, it combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavors to create a dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

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Whether you are looking for a post-workout lunch or a stress-free weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on both nutrition and convenience. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh herbs ensures that every bite is packed with savory goodness, while the avocado adds a lovely creamy texture.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower Rice:
• 1 large head cauliflower (about 700 g), riced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Protein:
• 400 g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces (substitute: tofu for vegetarian option)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Vegetables & Toppings:
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• Sauce (optional):
• 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp tahini
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the cauliflower rice: Remove leaves and stem from cauliflower, chop into florets, and pulse in a food processor until rice-sized.

Step 2

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add riced cauliflower, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, toss chicken pieces (or tofu) with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat.

Step 5

In the same skillet, quickly sauté bell pepper and broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender but still crisp.

Step 6

Assemble bowls: Divide cauliflower rice among four bowls. Top with chicken, sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and fresh herbs.

Step 7

Drizzle with optional yogurt-tahini sauce and sprinkle with feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, use a food processor or a box grater to ensure the cauliflower is broken down into uniform, rice-sized pieces. Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken to achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear that locks in flavor.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef strips, or tofu for variety. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, snap peas, or carrots. To keep the dish dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese and Greek yogurt.

Serviervorschläge

Assemble the bowls just before eating to maintain the freshness of the avocado and cherry tomatoes. For an extra flavor boost, add a fresh squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of toasted seeds over the top before serving.

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Enjoy this wholesome Cauliflower Rice Bowl as a delicious way to fuel your body with protein and colorful vegetables while keeping your meal light and healthy.

Recipe FAQs

→ Is cauliflower rice healthier than regular rice?

Cauliflower rice contains significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates than white rice while providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A cup of cauliflower rice has about 25 calories compared to 200 calories in white rice.

→ Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

Simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. Use nutritional yeast instead of feta cheese for a dairy-free version. The spices and vegetables provide plenty of flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the cauliflower rice and protein refrigerated, then reheat gently before assembling fresh toppings like avocado and herbs.

→ What other proteins work well?

Shrimp, beef strips, pork tenderloin, or even salmon fillets pair beautifully. For plant-based options, try marinated tofu, roasted chickpeas, or lentils seasoned with similar spices.

→ Can I freeze cauliflower rice?

Yes, freeze raw or cooked cauliflower rice in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using, or cook frozen rice directly in a skillet with a little extra oil.

→ What dressing alternatives can I use?

Lemon-tahini, garlic vinaigrette, avocado lime dressing, or even a simple drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice work wonderfully. Match the dressing to your flavor preferences.