Zesty Keto Cilantro Lime Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

Zesty Keto Cilantro Lime Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

(One-Pan, 40-Minute Keto Dinner)

KEY INFO

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 385 per serving

Fat: 24g

Protein: 35g

Net Carbs: 6g

Difficulty: Easy

Tags: Keto, Gluten-free, Low-carb

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large skillet or wok
• Food processor (or box grater)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring tools
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Alternative: Pre-riced cauliflower eliminates the need for a processor.

INGREDIENTS

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken breasts (680g/1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (60ml)
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cauliflower Rice:

• 1 large cauliflower head (or 4 cups pre-riced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, zested
• Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD:

1. Process cauliflower into rice-sized pieces using a food processor or grater.
2. Mix marinade: combine 2 tbsp olive oil, lime juice, half the cilantro, and all seasonings.
3. Add chicken to marinade, coat well, rest for 15-30 minutes.
4. Heat skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil.
5. Cook cauliflower rice for 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy.
6. Remove rice, add remaining oil and chicken.
7. Cook chicken 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C.
8. Slice chicken after 5 minutes rest.
9. Stir remaining cilantro and lime zest into cauliflower rice.

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken.
• Pat chicken dry before marinating.
• Don’t overcook cauliflower – it gets mushy fast.
• Use fresh lime juice, not bottled.

STORAGE & VARIATIONS:

Storage: Keeps 4 days refrigerated.

Scaling: Recipe doubles easily.

Variations:

• Swap chicken thighs for more fat.
• Add jalapeños for heat.
• Use coconut oil for a tropical twist.

Common Mistakes:

• Overprocessing cauliflower
• Skipping the chicken rest period
• Using cold chicken straight from the fridge

This recipe brings restaurant-quality keto dining to your kitchen without the carbs or complexity. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro create a bright, vibrant dish that’ll become your go-to keto dinner.