15 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
When life gets busy and dinner feels like a daunting task, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice recipe has become my go-to lifesaver. It all started one hectic Tuesday when I realized I had only 15 minutes to whip up something nutritious and delicious for the family. The pantry was sparse, but I spotted some chicken breasts, a head of cauliflower, and Parmesan cheese in the fridge. That’s when inspiration struck—and I’ve never looked back.
What I love most about this dish is how it balances indulgent, buttery flavor with the wholesome goodness of cauliflower rice. It’s a comfort food that doesn’t weigh you down, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. My kids devoured it without realizing they were eating vegetables, and my husband? Let’s just say he’s requested it twice this week already!
Whether you’re juggling after-school activities, work deadlines, or just want to keep your evenings low-key, this recipe delivers on every front. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a mouthwatering meal on the table in no time. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze—one skillet and you’re done. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs add extra juiciness, but breasts cook faster.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook it! Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let it rest for a few minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies pair beautifully with this recipe.
What You Need to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice:
Ingredients:
2 large chicken breasts, sliced thinly
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 head cauliflower, grated (or 4 cups cauliflower rice)
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Tools:
Large skillet
Grater or food processor (for cauliflower rice)
Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
How to Make It:
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Cook the cauliflower rice: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then stir in the cauliflower rice. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
Add Parmesan: Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Combine and garnish: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the cauliflower rice. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips:
Grate your cauliflower in advance: Save time on busy nights by prepping the cauliflower rice ahead of time.
Use fresh Parmesan: It melts better and adds a more robust flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
Customize the spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spice for a different twist.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure a good sear.
Latest Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe saved me on a chaotic Monday night. It was quick, flavorful, and my whole family loved it!” – Amanda T.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I was skeptical about cauliflower rice, but this dish converted me. So much flavor in just 15 minutes!” – Rachel M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I added extra garlic because we’re garlic lovers here. Delicious! Next time, I’ll try it with chicken thighs.” – Mike P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Super easy to make and great for meal prep. I wish the cauliflower rice was a little crispier, but still a win!” – Sarah L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for my low-carb diet! I paired it with a green salad, and it was a hit. Will make again!” – Laura D.
Printable Recipe:
Before you print the recipe, could I ask you a favor? Please consider sharing this recipe on Facebook or pin to a group on Pinterest? This would really help us out. Thank you so much <3
15 Minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice
A quick and easy 15-minute Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers bold flavors and a healthy twist the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head cauliflower, grated (or 4 cups cauliflower rice)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tools:
- Large skillet
- Grater or food processor (for cauliflower rice)
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the cauliflower rice: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then stir in the cauliflower rice. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Add Parmesan: Mix in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and garnish: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the cauliflower rice. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook