Save to Pinterest Discover a vibrant and healthy meal with this Low-Cal Cilantro Lime Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl. This dish perfectly balances juicy, citrus-marinated chicken with a light and fluffy cauliflower base, making it a satisfying choice for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Save to Pinterest This Tex-Mex inspired bowl is packed with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion. It’s an ideal option for meal prep or a fresh weekday meal that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Cauliflower Rice: 1 large head cauliflower (about 6 cups florets), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Toppings: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 avocado (sliced), 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 lime (cut into wedges)
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor).
- 2. Prepare the Cauliflower
- While the chicken marinates, remove leaves and core from the cauliflower. Chop into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
- 3. Sauté the Cauliflower Rice
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower rice, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender. Stir in lime juice and cilantro, then set aside and keep warm.
- 4. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- 5. Assemble the Bowls
- Assemble bowls: Divide cauliflower rice among 4 bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and extra cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the cauliflower rice has the best texture, use a food processor or box grater and be careful not to over-process it into a paste; you want distinct, rice-sized grains.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. This recipe also works beautifully with shrimp or tofu as alternative protein sources.
Serviervorschläge
Divide the cauliflower rice evenly among four bowls and arrange the toppings colorfully on top. Always serve with extra lime wedges to provide a fresh burst of citrus just before eating.
Save to Pinterest This Low-Cal Cilantro Lime Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl is the perfect way to enjoy a meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious and healthy.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. You can also cook it in advance and reheat gently before assembling the bowls.
- → What other proteins work well with this bowl?
Shrimp, tofu, or even flank steak make excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks in 2-3 minutes per side, while tofu benefits from pressing and pan-frying first.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store components separately in airtight containers. The cauliflower rice keeps for 3-4 days, while sliced chicken stays fresh for 3-5 days. Reheat gently and add fresh toppings before serving.
- → Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower?
Absolutely. White or brown rice works well—cook about 1 cup dry rice according to package directions. This will increase the calorie count slightly but still maintains the dish's vibrant flavors.
- → What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Bell peppers, cucumbers, corn, black beans, or shredded cabbage all complement the Tex-Mex flavors beautifully. Feel free to customize based on what's in season or your preferences.
- → Is this meal prep friendly?
Very much so. Portion the cooked cauliflower rice and sliced chicken into meal prep containers, keep toppings separate, and assemble fresh when ready to eat for the best texture and flavor.