Description
If you’re craving a cozy, creamy, and satisfying meal, this Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower recipe is just what you need! Made with tender chicken, soft cauliflower, and a rich, velvety sauce, this dish is low-carb, keto-friendly, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re following a healthy diet or simply love comforting meals, this one-pan dish will become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs, for extra juiciness)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup mushrooms, sliced – for a deeper, umami flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – for a tangy twist
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick
- ½ cup baby spinach – for extra greens
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip and cook for another 5–6 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Cauliflower
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and melt over medium heat.
- Stir in minced garlic and chopped onions, cooking until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the cauliflower florets, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
- Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce.
- Let everything simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check that the cauliflower is tender and the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Keto Version: Use extra butter and cheese for added fats.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and cheese for nutritional yeast.
- Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Extra Protein: Stir in sautéed shrimp or crumbled bacon.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- 🥖 Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- 🥗 Fresh Green Salad: Lightens up the meal.
- 🥦 Roasted Veggies: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
- 🍚 Rice or Cauliflower Rice: A great pairing for extra texture.
- 🍷 Wine Pairing: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect match.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
Nutrition
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Sugar: ~3g
- Fat: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Protein: ~32g