Salsa Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet

A Flavorful, Low-Carb One-Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that comes together in just one pan, this Salsa Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet is perfect for you! Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, lean protein, and nutritious veggies, this dish is a great option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re simply craving a satisfying meal without the carbs from traditional rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Less mess, less cleanup!
• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Cauliflower rice replaces traditional rice for a lighter option.
• Protein-Packed – Chicken breasts provide lean protein to keep you full.
• Bold Tex-Mex Flavors – With chili powder, cumin, salsa, and cheese, this dish is a flavor bomb.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 24 ounces cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• 2 green onions, sliced thin
• 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
• 4 ounces diced green chiles
• 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 cup salsa, plus extra for spooning on top
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet with lid
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. Sprinkle half of the seasoning onto the chicken breasts along with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice Mixture

5. Add a little more oil to the skillet if needed.
6. Add the cauliflower rice, green onions, garlic, remaining spice mixture, salt, and pepper.
7. Sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
8. Stir in the salsa, black beans, diced green chiles, and chopped cilantro. Mix well and let it heat through.

Step 3: Assemble & Melt the Cheese

9. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts into the cauliflower rice mixture.
10. Spoon additional salsa on top of each chicken breast.
11. Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over everything.
12. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
13. Garnish with extra cilantro and green onions, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Use different proteins – Try ground turkey, shrimp, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Swap the cheese – Pepper Jack adds an extra kick!
• Make it vegetarian – Omit the chicken and add more black beans or tofu.
• Add more veggies – Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Heat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second increments until warm.

What to Serve With It

• Avocado slices or guacamole – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A cool contrast to the heat.
• Low-carb tortillas – Wrap it up as a burrito for a fun twist.
• A fresh side salad – Light and refreshing to balance the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower rice?

Yes! Swap the cauliflower rice for cooked white or brown rice. Just reduce the sauté time since the rice is already cooked.

What salsa works best for this recipe?

Use your favorite store-bought salsa or make a homemade version with tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and jalapeños for a fresher taste.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! If you omit the black beans or reduce the portion, this meal is perfect for a low-carb, keto lifestyle.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Cook everything ahead of time, portion it into containers, and store it in the fridge for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Final Thoughts

This Salsa Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Skillet is the perfect balance of healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a low-carb meal, or a dish that keeps well for meal prep, this skillet recipe checks all the boxes.

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