A Healthy, Quick Dinner That Feels Like a Treat
If you’re searching for a recipe that combines flavor, speed, and a touch of elegance, look no further than this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice. Juicy chicken cutlets seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce pair beautifully with light, fluffy parmesan cauliflower rice. It’s the ultimate low-carb, gluten-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering a restaurant-quality dish in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping or simply looking for a wholesome, delicious option, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Low-Carb and Healthy: Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
- Versatile: Great as-is or paired with other sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Chicken Cutlets (1 lb): Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds bold, aromatic flavor.
- Butter (3 tbsp): Creates a luscious, rich sauce.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps achieve the perfect sear.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a smoky, warm flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
- Lemon Wedges: For serving.
For the Parmesan Cauliflower Rice:
- Cauliflower Rice (4 cups): Fresh or frozen, cooked to tender perfection.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/3 cup): Adds a creamy, nutty finish.
- Butter (2 tbsp): For richness.
- Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Brightens the dish with fresh flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients:
Season the chicken cutlets with paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. Mince garlic and chop parsley to have them ready.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cutlets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
4. Prepare the Parmesan Cauliflower Rice:
In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender. Stir in parmesan cheese and parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble and Serve:
Plate the parmesan cauliflower rice and top with the garlic butter chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken and Cauliflower Rice
- Use Thin Chicken Cutlets: Thin cutlets cook evenly and quickly, making them ideal for this recipe.
- Don’t Overcook the Cauliflower Rice: Keep the rice tender but not mushy for the best texture.
- Add Extra Flavor: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the chicken for a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Add Vegetables: Serve with sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans for extra nutrients.
- Pair with Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic butter flavors beautifully.
- Low-Carb Meal Prep: Store in meal prep containers for easy, reheatable lunches during the week.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze chicken and cauliflower rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice is everything you want in a quick dinner: fast, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The buttery, garlicky chicken pairs perfectly with the cheesy cauliflower rice, creating a satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s proof that eating low-carb can still feel indulgent and delicious!