Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-Carb Delight: Ideal for keto or paleo diets, offering a satisfying meal without the carbs.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lime and cilantro infuses the dish with a fresh, tangy taste.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, with a total cook time of under 40 minutes.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or added vegetables.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well, making it great for preparing ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Fresh lime juice
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Olive oil
Ground cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Cauliflower head, riced
Optional: diced jalapeño for added heat

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove and let it rest.
Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the riced cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Slice the rested chicken and serve over the cauliflower rice. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take.
Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Herb Alternatives: Try using parsley or basil if cilantro isn’t preferred.
Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

What is cauliflower rice?

Cauliflower rice is finely chopped cauliflower that resembles rice grains. It’s a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?

Yes, frozen cauliflower rice works well. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before cooking.

How do I rice cauliflower at home?

Chop cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like texture.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the lime and cilantro.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently. However, adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes can increase the heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store components separately and combine when ready to eat.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this meal.

Is this dish suitable for keto diets?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein, fitting well within keto guidelines.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is preferred for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How can I add more flavor to the cauliflower rice?

Sautéing with garlic, onions, or adding spices like cumin can enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and versatile. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a delicious dinner option, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Cauliflower Rice

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Cilantro Lime Chicken and Cauliflower Rice is a low-carb, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in fresh lime and cilantro, served over zesty cauliflower rice. Perfect for keto or paleo diets, this healthy yet satisfying meal is quick to prepare and can be customized with different proteins or veggies. Ideal for meal prep or a weeknight dinner!

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove and let it rest.
Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the riced cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Slice the rested chicken and serve over the cauliflower rice. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for variety.
Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Herb Alternatives: Swap cilantro with parsley or basil if preferred.
Veggie Additions: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.