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Salsa Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Salsa Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet: Quick and Healthy!

Enjoy a flavorful salsa chicken and cauliflower rice skillet, the ultimate low-carb, high-protein dinner option.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can use any cooking oil as an alternative.
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Adjust amount to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Ground coriander can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Use sweet paprika for a milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust according to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Cauliflower Rice Base
  • 4 cups Cauliflower Rice (Fresh or Frozen) Frozen doesn’t need defrosting.
  • 2 scallions Green Onions Substitute with chives if desired.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced or grated; fresh garlic works best.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 1 can Diced Green Chiles Use jalapeños for extra spice if you like it hot.
  • 1 can Canned Black Beans Be sure to rinse before using.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Can be omitted or replaced with parsley if preferred.
For the Sauce and Topping
  • 1 cup Salsa Choose your favorite flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese Queso fresco is a great alternative.

Equipment

  • 12-inch skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this spice mixture evenly over the boneless skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they're well-coated, then season with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Stir in the cauliflower rice, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and additional spices. Sauté for about 10-12 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
  4. Once the cauliflower rice has cooked through, lower the heat and add the salsa, rinsed black beans, diced green chiles, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  5. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Top each piece with salsa and shredded cheese. Cover and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Using fresh garlic and produce enhances flavor. This dish can be prepared ahead of time for busy nights.

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