it’s a warm evening, and you’ve got friends and family gathered around. The laughter is genuine, and the aroma of something delicious wafts through the air.
You’ve made Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice, and now you’re thinking about what sides could elevate this meal. Trust me when I say, fresh salads are your best friends here.
A simple mixed greens salad with a zingy vinaigrette pairs beautifully. And if you want to go the extra mile, a zesty coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast. A side of roasted vegetables brings out the dish’s flavors without overshadowing them.
Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into this meal that’s not just low in carbs but also bursting with cheesy goodness.
What is Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice?
Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice is a delightful dish that substitutes traditional rice with finely riced cauliflower.
This swap dramatically reduces the carbohydrate content while delivering all the cheesy comfort you desire. With succulent chicken, rich cream cheese, and sharp Cheddar melted throughout, it’s a satisfying dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking to enjoy a delicious dinner, this dish ticks all the boxes.
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Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need:
- 6 chicken leg quarters, skin-on
- 6 cups finely riced cauliflower
- 4 ounces whipped cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 packet zesty ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaky kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice?
Prepare yourself for a journey into easy cooking. You’ll be thrilled to find that this dish isn’t just flavorful; it’s also a breeze to throw together. Let’s break it down to ensure success every step of the way.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and saves time. Rinse the chicken leg quarters under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels, which helps the skin become crispy during cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the flaky kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken, ensuring that every nook and cranny is coated. The skin-on part? It’s there for a reason. Leaving the skin on adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken leg quarters, skin side down.
Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken over to the other side and sear for an additional 2 minutes. This step builds a beautiful crust, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture
While the chicken is searing, grab a large mixing bowl.
Combine the finely riced cauliflower, whipped cream cheese, zesty ranch seasoning mix, and half of the grated Cheddar cheese. Mix everything well until the cauliflower is thoroughly coated. The cream cheese will help bind it all together.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the cauliflower mixture around the chicken in the skillet. It should mostly cover the chicken legs but leave the skin exposed. This combination creates a perfect disco of textures.
Step 6: Bake It
Cover the skillet with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
After that, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
When the dish comes out of the oven, drizzle melted butter on top of everything and sprinkle the chopped parsley for a burst of color. Let it rest for a few minutes, then serve it up.
Notes (Tips for Success)
- Choosing Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible. The flavor is worth the investment.
- Finely Rice the Cauliflower: For an even texture, use a food processor. Pulse until it resembles rice but be sure not to overdo it.
- Customize Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices to the chicken rub. Smoked paprika or onion powder can give it an extra kick.
- Adjust Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Cheddar, switch it out for mozzarella or gouda.
- Use Leftovers: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Leftover Cheesy Chicken and Rice reheats beautifully!
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing this dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Information
Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice Recipe Nutrition Facts
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a Simple Salad: A mixed green salad topped with olive oil and vinegar can offer a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with Cauliflower Breadsticks: For those who want a little crunch, breadsticks made from cauliflower will keep your meal on theme.
- Accompany with Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon juice makes for a zesty side.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped chives or basil to brighten the dish’s flavor.
- Enjoy with a Glass of Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink can cleanse the palate and add a party atmosphere.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice?
- Broccoli Rice: Swap out cauliflower for finely chopped broccoli for a different veggie twist.
- Cream Cheese Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a lighter option while keeping the creaminess.
- Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs provide a rich flavor and tenderness.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, look for plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
- Spices: Use taco seasoning for a Mexican twist instead of ranch.
Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice Recipe
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 6 chicken leg quarters skin-on
- 6 cups finely riced cauliflower
- 4 ounces whipped cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 packet zesty ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sharp Cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon flaky kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and saves time. Rinse the chicken leg quarters under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels, which helps the skin become crispy during cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix the flaky kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken, ensuring that every nook and cranny is coated. The skin-on part? It’s there for a reason. Leaving the skin on adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken leg quarters, skin side down.
- Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken over to the other side and sear for an additional 2 minutes. This step builds a beautiful crust, enhancing the overall flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Cauliflower Mixture
- While the chicken is searing, grab a large mixing bowl.
- Combine the finely riced cauliflower, whipped cream cheese, zesty ranch seasoning mix, and half of the grated Cheddar cheese. Mix everything well until the cauliflower is thoroughly coated. The cream cheese will help bind it all together.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the cauliflower mixture around the chicken in the skillet. It should mostly cover the chicken legs but leave the skin exposed. This combination creates a perfect disco of textures.
Step 6: Bake It
- Cover the skillet with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- After that, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- When the dish comes out of the oven, drizzle melted butter on top of everything and sprinkle the chopped parsley for a burst of color. Let it rest for a few minutes, then serve it up.
Notes
- Choosing Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible. The flavor is worth the investment.
- Finely Rice the Cauliflower: For an even texture, use a food processor. Pulse until it resembles rice but be sure not to overdo it.
- Customize Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices to the chicken rub. Smoked paprika or onion powder can give it an extra kick.
- Adjust Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Cheddar, switch it out for mozzarella or gouda.
- Use Leftovers: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Leftover Cheesy Chicken and Rice reheats beautifully!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, frozen cauliflower rice works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it and drain excess moisture before mixing.
Q2: How can I spice it up?
If you like spicy food, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the chicken rub. You can also include jalapeños in the cauliflower mixture.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for a day. When you’re ready to eat, bake as directed.
Q4: Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Most kids love cheesy meals, and the flavors are mild enough to appeal to young palates.
Q5: What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can create a basic seasoning by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a bit of salt and pepper for a similar effect.
Conclusion
Cooking Low Carb Cheesy Chicken And Rice has transformed my favorite comfort food into a healthier option without compromising flavor.
Each bite delivers cheesy richness and a satisfying mouthfeel. This dish is not only versatile and easy to prepare but also perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this ultimate comfort meal. You won’t regret it!
