Are you looking for some inspiration to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! Chicken and cauliflower are a match made in heaven, and when combined with a variety of flavors and ingredients, can result in incredibly delicious dishes perfect for any occasion. From comfort food classics to global-inspired twists, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering chicken and cauliflower recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals or a home cook seeking impressive show-stoppers for special gatherings, these recipes have got you covered. With a range of flavors from garlic butter to spicy buffalo, creamy casserole to smoky paprika, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings!
Garlic Butter Chicken and Roasted Cauliflower
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter with succulent chicken and the nutty sweetness of roasted cauliflower for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the garlic butter mixture on top of each breast, spreading evenly.
4. Roast cauliflower florets in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Cook chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken with roasted cauliflower and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of cream with the simplicity of chicken, cauliflower, and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cauliflower and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Pour mixture over chicken and cauliflower mixture; stir to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Transfer casserole to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower Bake
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic buffalo wings! This spicy and savory recipe combines the bold flavors of chicken, cauliflower, and buffalo sauce with a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with buffalo sauce until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange chicken on one half of the sheet.
4. On the other half, spread cauliflower florets and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder and salt to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cauliflower is tender.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle over the top of the dish and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon and herbs with the tender juiciness of chicken, all wrapped up with a nutritious serving of cauliflower “rice”. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a baking sheet.
4. Meanwhile, pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
5. Toss cauliflower “rice” with lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve the chicken breasts with cauliflower “rice” and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Cauliflower Gratin
This recipe combines the richness of cheese with the comfort of chicken and cauliflower, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals. With its creamy sauce and golden-brown topping, this gratin is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken and cauliflower in butter until cooked through.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and grated cheese. Heat over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked chicken and cauliflower with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Cauliflower Curry
A flavorful and aromatic one-pan wonder that combines the richness of chicken and spices with the crunch of cauliflower, all in a single pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onions, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until the onions are translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Parmesan Chicken and Cauliflower Tots
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy-to-make Baked Parmesan Chicken and Cauliflower Tots recipe. Crunchy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and packed with nutritious cauliflower goodness!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together egg and breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken breast into the mixture, coating evenly.
3. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss cauliflower florets with remaining breadcrumb mixture and spread on a separate baking sheet.
5. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Tots will be done in 15-20 minutes, or when golden brown.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each piece and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines tender chicken, crisp cauliflower, and savory soy sauce for a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets (or substitute with cauliflower)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
6. Add the broccoli (or cauliflower) and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and ginger.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Cauliflower Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, crunchy cauliflower, and a rich broth that simmers away all day. With minimal effort, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, cauliflower, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Chicken with Cauliflower Mash
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy cauliflower mash.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 heads of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While chicken is grilling, prepare cauliflower mash:
– Rinse cauliflower heads and remove leaves.
– Cut into florets and pulse in food processor until coarsely chopped.
– Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
– Mash with fork or potato masher until desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve grilled chicken atop cauliflower mash, garnished with your favorite seasonings or herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling time) + prep time
Chicken and Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, cauliflower, and a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cauliflower florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cauliflower in the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken and Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle
This one-pan wonder combines crispy chicken, tender cauliflower, and creamy tahini sauce for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and cauliflower; toss to coat.
4. Spread the mixture on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cauliflower is tender.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and water in a small bowl.
7. Remove the sheet pan from the oven; drizzle with tahini sauce.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds protein-packed chicken and nutritious cauliflower to create a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the empty space and scramble it until cooked through.
5. Mix the egg with the chicken and cauliflower.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, adding soy sauce and seasonings as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring smoky paprika chicken paired with tender roasted cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss cauliflower florets with lemon juice and spread on a separate baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve chicken and roasted cauliflower together, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Soup with Turmeric
This recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional chicken soup, packed with the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric. Enjoy this soothing and flavorful soup as a comforting meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the cauliflower, chicken broth, turmeric, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Cauliflower Skewers
Get ready to fire up your grill with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender chicken, crispy cauliflower, and tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 heads of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, cauliflower, and a few wood chips (if using) onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and cauliflower is tender.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the tender chicken, crisp cauliflower, and tangy lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and cauliflower; toss to coat.
3. Grill chicken and cauliflower for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled chicken and cauliflower onto tortillas. Top with lime crema (recipe below) and desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chicken and Cauliflower Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish with a twist! This recipe combines tender chicken, roasted cauliflower, and creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and chicken broth.
6. Top the chicken and cauliflower mixture with the mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Pizza with Low-Carb Crust
Elevate your pizza game with this delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, cauliflower, and cheese on a low-carb crust that’s both crispy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a microwave-safe dish, cook the cauliflower “rice” for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute, until it’s soft and cooked through.
4. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly before mixing with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out the cauliflower mixture into a circle or rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Top with chicken, additional mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley or basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Salad with Avocado Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled chicken, roasted cauliflower, and creamy avocado dressing for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Blend until smooth.
4. Combine grilled chicken, roasted cauliflower, and avocado dressing in a bowl. Garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and versatile chicken and cauliflower recipes? You’re in luck! This collection of 20 mouthwatering dishes has got you covered. From comforting casseroles to flavorful stir-fries, these recipes showcase the perfect pairing of tender chicken and crispy cauliflower. Try Garlic Butter Chicken and Roasted Cauliflower, Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower Casserole, or Spicy Buffalo Chicken and Cauliflower Bake for a taste adventure. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or rich and indulgent, this list has a recipe to suit every occasion.
