Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that packs a punch without the heaviness, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! The Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl is a delightful blend of spicy, savory, and nutritious elements that will leave your taste buds dancing. This bowl brings together tender, flavorful chicken breasts with a zesty buffalo sauce, all served atop a bed of cauliflower rice, making it a perfect option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Not to mention, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying that delicious buffalo flavor we all crave. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl is not just about flavor; it’s about versatility and convenience. I love that it can be whipped up in under an hour and is easily adaptable to fit various dietary preferences. The combination of chicken and cauliflower rice keeps it light yet filling, making it a fantastic choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, the spicy kick from the buffalo sauce is just irresistible! Whether you’re hosting friends or simply cooking for yourself, this bowl is sure to impress.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup + 1/4 cup chicken stock (see notes)
• 1 tsp. poultry seasoning
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• 3/4 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce
• 2 T olive oil
• 2 T Worcestershire Sauce or Gluten-Free Worcestershire Sauce (see notes)
• 2 tsp. Green Tabasco sauce or other green hot sauce (see notes)
• 2 T Golden Monkfruit Sweetener, or sweetener of your choice

Cook’s Kit

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating that flavorful sauce.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly (165°F is the goal!).
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping and preparing the chicken.
• Rice cooker or steamer: For preparing the cauliflower rice, if preferred.

Stepwise Method: Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat them evenly for that burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, Franks Red Hot Sauce, Worcestershire Sauce, and Green Tabasco sauce. Stir in the Golden Monkfruit Sweetener to balance the heat. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Through

After the sauce has simmered, return the seared chicken to the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cauliflower rice according to your preference. You can either grate fresh cauliflower into rice-sized pieces or use pre-packaged cauliflower rice. Steam or sauté it lightly in a separate pan until tender.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is thickened, remove the chicken and slice it into bite-sized pieces. In serving bowls, place a generous portion of cauliflower rice and top it with the sliced buffalo chicken. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for added flavor and garnish with your choice of toppings, like green onions or celery.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

• Swap out chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein source.
• Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the salt content in the dish.
• Incorporate more vegetables by adding sautéed peppers, onions, or even broccoli.
• For a vegan option, replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use a plant-based hot sauce.

Steer Clear of These

• Avoid using regular Worcestershire sauce if you’re looking for gluten-free options.
• Stay away from overly processed sauces that might contain artificial ingredients.
• Skip the high-calorie toppings like excessive cheese or creamy dressings to keep it healthy.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. The cauliflower rice can also be made ahead and stored separately to maintain its texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Is there a substitute for cauliflower rice?

Yes, you can use regular rice, quinoa, or even zucchini noodles if you prefer a different base for your bowl.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preferences. You can reduce the amount of hot sauce or add more sweetener to balance the heat!

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to eat.

More from the Kitchen

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – For delightful baking recipes.
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• Minimalist Baker – Simple, delicious recipes with minimal ingredients.

See You at the Table

This Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings friends and family together. Whether you’re enjoying it at the dining table or on the go, this bowl is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and nutritious. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to be wowed by this spicy, savory dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Don’t forget to share your creations and let the flavors flow!