There’s something truly comforting about a skillet meal. It’s warm, satisfying, and easy to put together—just what you need after a long day. And this creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet with arugula and dill? It’s that kind of cozy, wholesome dinner that fills you up without weighing you down. It started in my kitchen as a quick way to use up leftover chicken, and now it’s a go-to weeknight staple.
The best part? It comes together in just one pan, with minimal prep, and uses ingredients that are easy to find (you probably have most of them already). It’s packed with flavor thanks to a duo of tomato paste and red pesto, creamy milk, melty mozzarella, and the fresh punch of arugula and dill at the end. The result is something between a creamy risotto and a cheesy casserole, with all the richness you love—but made lighter and fresher thanks to cauliflower rice.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade, but don’t have the energy for a full-blown recipe. And because it uses cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, it cooks super fast. That means dinner is ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish—yes, really. Whether you’re trying to eat a little lighter or just want to sneak more veggies onto your plate, this skillet makes it easy. And let’s be honest, meals that make you feel good and taste amazing? They’re keepers.
Plus, it’s flexible. You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even poached chicken breast. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with just a few tweaks. This is one of those meals that feels a little bit fancy thanks to the fresh herbs and melty cheese, but in reality, it’s just honest-to-goodness comfort food made simple.
Why You’ll Love This creamy chicken cauliflower Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this skillet dish. First, let’s talk about flavor. The creamy, cheesy base made with milk and mozzarella gives you that classic comfort food vibe, while the tomato paste and red pesto add depth, richness, and a little tang. Then there’s the arugula, which brings a slightly peppery bite that cuts through the richness perfectly. Finally, dill swoops in with its fresh, grassy flavor and ties everything together in a really lovely way.
It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but actually includes a lot of good-for-you ingredients. Cauliflower rice keeps things light and grain-free, while still soaking up all that flavor. You won’t miss traditional rice one bit—promise. And because the chicken is already cooked, the whole thing comes together in a matter of minutes. That means you can have a hot, homemade meal on the table without a ton of prep or cleanup.
Another great reason to love this dish? It’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or what you’ve got in the fridge. No arugula? Try spinach. Out of mozzarella? Swap in cheddar or a little crumbled feta for a twist. And if you want to make it vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms and still have something delicious.
And let’s not forget that this is a one-pan wonder. One skillet means less mess, fewer dishes, and a quicker cleanup—always a win on busy nights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or prepping a week’s worth of lunches, this recipe has your back. It’s fast, flexible, flavorful, and deeply satisfying in every bite.
Health Benefits of this creamy chicken cauliflower
Beyond the amazing flavor, this creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet offers a whole range of health benefits that make it a smart choice for anyone trying to eat well without sacrificing taste. First, let’s start with the cauliflower rice. Unlike traditional white rice, cauliflower rice is low in carbs and calories, high in fiber, and rich in nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. It’s a great option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or sneak in more vegetables without even noticing.
Chicken, the protein star of this recipe, is lean and filling. It provides essential amino acids, which help with muscle repair and overall energy. Using pre-cooked or leftover shredded chicken makes this dish super easy, but also a practical way to add high-quality protein to your meal. If you’re trying to eat more protein or build muscle, this recipe checks that box effortlessly.
Then we have the arugula, a leafy green that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves. Arugula is high in antioxidants, vitamins A and K, and adds a peppery flavor that’s more exciting than your average lettuce. Dill, although used in small amounts, brings its own health perks to the table. It’s packed with flavonoids that can support heart health and has long been used in traditional medicine for its digestion-supporting properties.
Mozzarella, while adding that irresistible melty texture, also contributes calcium and protein. And when used in moderation, it can be part of a balanced meal. Even the olive oil plays a part—it’s a heart-healthy fat that helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables.
So while it tastes like pure comfort, this dish is actually a smart choice nutritionally. It supports a balanced diet, is naturally gluten-free, and can be adapted for dairy-free or low-carb lifestyles. When you can enjoy a meal that feels indulgent but nourishes your body, you know you’ve hit the jackpot.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
This skillet meal is as quick to prepare as it is satisfying. In fact, it might just be one of the fastest dinners you’ll ever make from scratch—or from leftovers, which makes it even better.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
This includes everything from chopping the tomato to wilting the arugula. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, it speeds up the process considerably. You can even prep some ingredients in advance—like shredding the cheese or chopping the dill—to make it even faster on a busy night.
Servings: This recipe makes about 2 to 3 generous servings. If you’re serving it alongside a salad or some roasted veggies, you could easily stretch it to feed four light eaters. And it doubles well if you need to feed a crowd or prep lunches for the week.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 3 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 340–380 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 5g (from natural sugars in tomato and milk)
- Calcium: Around 200mg
- Iron: 2mg
These values are estimates and will vary depending on the type of milk and cheese you use. You can lighten things up further by using low-fat mozzarella and skim milk, or boost the protein by adding extra chicken.
All in all, this is a nourishing, filling meal that fits into a variety of diets. It’s gluten-free by default, low-carb, and customizable for other dietary preferences too. Whether you’re looking for a lighter dinner or just a really tasty way to use up leftovers, this skillet delivers both on speed and nutrition.
Ingredients List of this creamy chicken cauliflower
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient has a purpose and works together to create layers of flavor, from creamy to tangy to herbaceous. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
1 cup shredded chicken (cooked or leftover): A great use for leftovers or rotisserie chicken. This provides lean, satisfying protein and speeds up the cooking process.
2½ cups cauliflower rice: The base of this dish. It’s light, low-carb, and takes on the flavor of everything you add to it. You can use frozen or fresh, depending on what’s available.
1 medium tomato, chopped: Adds brightness and a little natural acidity to the dish. The tomato cooks down into the cauliflower rice and helps build a flavorful base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and warmth. Fresh is best here, but you can use jarred garlic in a pinch.
⅔ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: This gives the dish that gooey, melty texture that makes it feel indulgent and comforting.
1 cup fresh arugula: A peppery green that balances the creaminess of the dish. It wilts slightly when added at the end, keeping its texture and flavor intact.
3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: The secret ingredient. Dill adds freshness and a unique flavor that makes the whole dish sing.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a bit of richness. You can use any neutral oil, but olive oil adds the most flavor.
½ cup milk: This creates the creamy base. Use any milk you like—whole milk will be richer, but almond or oat milk work too.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps create a slightly saucy texture.
2 tablespoons red pesto: Adds umami, richness, and a little zing. If you don’t have red pesto, sun-dried tomato paste is a good substitute.
Salt and pepper to taste: To season everything and bring out all the flavors.
Optional: Parmesan for topping: Adds a salty, nutty finish that pairs beautifully with the herbs and cheese.
Each ingredient here plays a role, but the best part is how adaptable it is. Missing something? You’ve got options. Keep reading and we’ll walk through each step so you can make it with total confidence.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
One of the reasons this creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet is such a winner is how easily it comes together. Even if you’re not a confident cook or you’re just starting to explore homemade meals, this recipe is friendly, approachable, and totally doable. Let’s walk through each step with all the details you need to make this skillet a total success.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you even turn on the stove, spend a few minutes getting everything ready. This is what makes cooking feel relaxed instead of rushed. You’ll want to:
- Wash and chop the tomato into small chunks. The smaller the pieces, the faster they’ll cook down.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely. If garlic is your love language, feel free to add a third clove for a bit more punch.
- Measure out your mozzarella cheese. If you’re shredding it fresh, even better—it melts more evenly.
- Shred your cooked chicken if it’s not already shredded. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
- Rinse and dry the arugula. You don’t want any excess water making the dish soggy.
- Chop the fresh dill. It’s a small touch that goes a long way in brightening up the whole dish.
- Gather the rest of your ingredients and keep them nearby.
Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Sauté the Tomato
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, toss in the chopped tomato.
Let the tomato cook for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want it to soften slightly and begin releasing its juices. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
This step builds the first layer of flavor, so don’t rush it. A little browning on the edges of the tomato pieces is totally fine—it adds even more depth.
Step 3: Add the Cauliflower Rice and Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic and the cauliflower rice straight into the pan with the tomatoes. If you’re using frozen cauliflower rice, there’s no need to thaw it first—just break up any big chunks with your spoon.
Sauté everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes. Stir frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn. You’ll start to smell that wonderful garlicky aroma, and the cauliflower will begin to soften and take on the tomato flavor.
This is where things really start to come together. Don’t worry if the mixture looks a little dry at this point—that will change as you add the next ingredients.
Step 4: Mix in the Chicken, Tomato Paste, and Pesto
Add your shredded chicken to the pan, followed by the tomato paste and the red pesto. Stir well so everything gets coated and the flavors can start to meld.
At this stage, you can season with a bit of salt and pepper. Don’t go overboard—you’ll taste again at the end and adjust if needed. The red pesto usually has salt already, so you may not need too much.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook for 2 to 3 minutes over low to medium heat. This step helps warm up the chicken and gives the cauliflower rice a chance to steam and soften.
Step 5: Pour in the Milk and Half the Cheese
Now it’s time to make things creamy. Pour in the milk and sprinkle in about half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Stir gently to combine, then cover the skillet again. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese melts and everything becomes creamy and luscious.
This is when the dish starts to transform from a mix of ingredients into a real, cohesive meal. The milk and cheese create a sauce that coats every bite without being too heavy. It’s comforting, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Step 6: Add Arugula, Dill, and the Remaining Cheese
Remove the lid and stir the mixture one more time. Now add the fresh arugula and chopped dill. Sprinkle in the rest of the mozzarella cheese for good measure.
At this point, reduce the heat to low and let the arugula wilt slightly—this takes about a minute or two. The arugula will add a fresh, peppery contrast to the creamy base, and the dill brings in a burst of brightness that really sets this dish apart.
Once the cheese has melted and everything is combined, give it a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a bit more black pepper if you like a little bite, or an extra pinch of salt if it needs a lift.
Optional Step: Add a Parmesan Topping
If you’re in the mood for a slightly more savory finish, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top right before serving. It’s completely optional, but it adds a salty, nutty richness that really complements the creamy textures.
You can even pop the skillet under a broiler for 1 to 2 minutes if you want the top to get golden and bubbly. Just make sure your skillet is oven-safe if you go that route.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Scoop the creamy mixture into bowls and serve immediately. The warmth of the dish really brings out the flavors, and you’ll love how the cheese stretches with every bite.
This recipe is meant to be enjoyed fresh and hot, so if you’re serving a crowd, keep the skillet on low heat with a lid on until everyone is ready to dig in.
How to Serve this creamy chicken cauliflower
This creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet is satisfying enough to serve on its own, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it and elevate the meal even further.
As a Main Course: The dish is hearty and filling thanks to the protein-rich chicken and creamy cauliflower rice. Serve it straight from the skillet into deep bowls for a cozy, comforting dinner.
Topped with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs: Add a little freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of extra chopped dill or parsley for color and flavor. This makes it feel a little more elevated without any extra effort.
With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber pairs beautifully with the richness of the skillet. It adds crunch and a fresh contrast to the warm, creamy main dish.
As a Stuffed Pepper Filling: If you want to get creative, use this mixture to stuff halved bell peppers. Bake them for 15–20 minutes at 375°F until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling.
Wrapped in a Flatbread: Spoon the warm mixture into a soft wrap or flatbread and add a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini. Roll it up for a handheld version that’s perfect for lunch the next day.
Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Serve it with a side of roasted carrots, zucchini, or broccoli to add even more veggies to your plate. It rounds out the meal and adds a nice variety of textures.
This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful. Whether you want to keep things simple or turn it into something a little more elaborate, you’ve got plenty of options for making it your own.
Pairing Suggestions
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with a variety of sides and drinks to create a well-rounded dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just treating yourself, here are some ideas to inspire you.
Side Dishes:
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes: For those who don’t mind adding a little starch, roasted baby potatoes with garlic and rosemary are a fantastic pairing. Their crispy edges contrast perfectly with the creamy skillet.
- Simple Arugula Salad: Echo the flavors of the main dish with a light arugula salad tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved carrots. It refreshes your palate and complements the peppery arugula in the skillet.
- Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli: If you want to keep things light and green, steamed or sautéed vegetables are a great match. Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil to bring out their flavor.
- Toasted Pita or Flatbread: Soft flatbreads or toasted pita triangles are perfect for scooping up the cheesy mixture and soaking up the creamy sauce.
Drinks:
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Keep things simple and refreshing with lemon or lime-infused sparkling water. It cuts through the richness and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
- Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea complements the herbs in the dish beautifully and is soothing after a hearty meal.
- Non-Alcoholic Apple Cider: The slightly tart, fruity notes of apple cider add a cozy fall feel to the meal and pair well with the richness of the cheese and chicken.
For Kids:
- Serve it with buttered noodles or a soft dinner roll on the side to keep things kid-friendly and easy to eat. You can also leave out the arugula or use baby spinach if the peppery taste is too strong for little ones.
Pairing the right sides and drinks makes this simple dish feel like a complete, well-thought-out meal. It’s all about balance, and these suggestions will help you create a dinner that’s satisfying, wholesome, and delicious from the first bite to the last.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
One of the most practical things about this creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet is how well it stores. Whether you’re cooking for one and planning to enjoy leftovers, or you’re meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is incredibly fridge- and freezer-friendly. Let’s go over exactly how to store it, how to freeze it properly, and how to reheat it so it stays just as tasty as it was fresh out of the pan.
Storing Leftovers in the Refrigerator
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain the texture and prevents condensation, which can make the dish watery. Once stored, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the portion in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes, depending on the amount. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat—just add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up and bring back that creamy texture.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze this skillet for later use, you absolutely can. It’s best to freeze it in individual portions for easy thawing. To freeze:
- Let the dish cool completely.
- Spoon it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Label with the date and contents.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To thaw, move the container to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also defrost it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Once thawed, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or water if needed. Stir well to revive the creamy consistency.
Tips for Best Results
- If you plan to freeze the dish, consider undercooking the cauliflower rice just slightly before freezing. This helps it maintain better texture when reheated.
- Avoid freezing with any extra cheese or fresh herbs on top—add those fresh after reheating to preserve their flavor and texture.
- Use airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and flavor loss.
This dish is ideal for meal prep because it reheats beautifully and maintains its flavor and creamy texture even after a few days. Whether you’re prepping lunches, freezing leftovers, or simply planning ahead, this recipe is reliable and flexible enough to fit into your schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in this creamy chicken cauliflower
Even the simplest recipes can trip us up sometimes. While this chicken cauliflower rice skillet is pretty forgiving, a few small missteps can make the difference between a good meal and a truly great one. Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for, and how to avoid them.
Using Watery Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is naturally high in water, especially if you’re using frozen. If you skip draining off excess moisture or cooking it thoroughly, your dish might end up soggy. To avoid this, make sure to sauté the cauliflower rice long enough so any extra liquid evaporates. If needed, you can even press it in a clean kitchen towel before cooking to remove excess moisture.
Not Seasoning in Layers
This recipe gets its flavor from multiple ingredients—pesto, tomato paste, garlic, cheese—but it still needs a touch of salt and pepper to bring everything together. One common mistake is waiting until the end to season. Instead, taste and adjust as you go. Add a pinch of salt when you sauté the cauliflower and another light sprinkle when you stir in the cheese and milk.
Overcooking the Chicken
Since we’re using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, the goal is to warm it through—not to cook it again. Overcooking can make the chicken dry and rubbery. To prevent this, add the chicken after the cauliflower rice has started to soften, and keep the heat on low once everything is combined.
Skipping the Fresh Herbs
It might be tempting to skip the dill or arugula if you don’t have them on hand, but they really make a difference. The dill adds brightness and the arugula balances the creaminess with a peppery note. If you must substitute, try parsley or spinach rather than leaving them out entirely.
Adding All the Cheese at Once
If you throw all the cheese in at the beginning, you’ll miss out on that beautiful stretch and melt near the end. Add it in two stages—half after the milk, and half with the arugula and dill—to build creamy layers and ensure a silky texture.
Avoiding these simple mistakes will help you get the best results every time you make this recipe. It’s a dish that rewards a little attention to detail with a big payoff in flavor and satisfaction.
Pro Tips of this creamy chicken cauliflower
Want to take your creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet to the next level? These pro tips will help you cook with more confidence, adjust the recipe to your needs, and bring out the best flavors and textures every time.
Tip 1: Use Fresh Herbs at the End
Always add herbs like dill or parsley at the end of cooking. Heat can dull their flavor and color, so waiting until the final minute keeps them fresh and vibrant. If you’re making this dish ahead of time, consider adding a little extra fresh dill right before serving to revive the herbal brightness.
Tip 2: Choose Full-Fat Milk or a Cream Alternative
If you want an extra creamy skillet, opt for full-fat milk or even a splash of cream. It adds richness and helps the cheese melt smoothly. For a dairy-free version, try canned coconut milk or an unsweetened almond-oat milk blend. Just be sure it’s not flavored or sweetened.
Tip 3: Boost the Flavor with a Squeeze of Lemon
A tiny splash of lemon juice right before serving adds a subtle tang that brings out all the other flavors. It’s especially helpful if you’ve made the dish ahead of time and want to wake it up a bit before serving.
Tip 4: Don’t Rush the Cheese Melting Process
Take your time when melting in the cheese. Use low heat and stir gently. Rushing this step with high heat can cause the cheese to clump or become stringy instead of melting into a smooth, creamy base.
Tip 5: Customize with Veggies or Beans
This recipe is a fantastic canvas for customization. Add a handful of baby spinach, some sautéed mushrooms, or even a few spoonfuls of canned white beans for extra nutrition. Just make sure any added vegetables are fully cooked before mixing them in.
By applying these tips, you can make small improvements that turn a great dish into an outstanding one. Cooking should feel creative and joyful—don’t be afraid to experiment, taste as you go, and make the dish your own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Even with simple recipes, a few questions tend to pop up again and again. Here are answers to the most common ones to help you cook with confidence.
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Absolutely. Frozen cauliflower rice works just as well as fresh, and it makes prep even faster. Just add it directly to the pan without thawing. Be sure to sauté it long enough so the excess water evaporates—otherwise, your skillet might turn out too wet.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Any pre-cooked, shredded chicken will work. Rotisserie chicken is great for convenience and flavor, but grilled, baked, or poached chicken breast are all excellent options. You can also use leftover chicken from a previous meal—just make sure it’s well seasoned.
Can I make this creamy chicken cauliflower dairy-free?
Yes, you can. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap the milk with an unsweetened, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Coconut milk works too, but it will give the dish a slightly sweeter flavor. Be sure to choose a variety with a neutral flavor for best results.
How can I make this creamy chicken cauliflower vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply leave out the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or white beans. These substitutes provide texture and protein while keeping the dish hearty and flavorful.
What if I don’t have red pesto?
Red pesto adds depth and a slightly sweet, umami-rich flavor. If you don’t have it, sun-dried tomato paste or a few finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil make a great substitute. You could also use green pesto if that’s what you have, though the flavor will be different.
Can I meal prep this for the week?
Definitely. This dish keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. Store individual portions in containers and warm them up as needed. It makes a great lunch or quick dinner throughout the week.
Can I freeze it with the arugula?
Technically yes, but arugula tends to lose its texture when frozen. If you’re planning to freeze the dish, consider leaving out the arugula and adding it fresh when reheating for the best taste and texture.
Is it okay to use dried dill?
Fresh dill is best in this recipe because it adds a bright, green flavor. However, if that’s not available, you can use dried dill—just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I know when the cauliflower rice is cooked?
Cauliflower rice should be soft but not mushy. It should still have a slight bite, like al dente pasta. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes total of sautéing and simmering.
Can I double the creamy chicken cauliflower recipe?
Yes, and it doubles beautifully. Just make sure to use a large enough skillet so everything fits comfortably. You might need to increase the cooking time slightly to account for the extra volume.
Conclusion & Call to Action
There’s something truly satisfying about a meal that checks all the boxes—quick, comforting, nourishing, and endlessly customizable. This creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet with arugula and dill manages to be all of those things, and it still leaves room for creativity. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to get dinner on the table fast, someone learning to cook for the first time, or just looking for a new weeknight staple, this recipe fits right into your life with ease.
It’s a dish that feels special, even though it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients. The creamy base gives you all those cozy vibes you’d expect from a rich risotto or pasta bake, but without the heaviness. The cauliflower rice keeps things light and wholesome, the shredded chicken brings satisfying protein, and the arugula and dill keep the flavors bright and fresh. It’s comfort food with a feel-good twist—and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can use what you have on hand, make it dairy-free or vegetarian, freeze portions for later, or double it up for meal prep. No matter how you spin it, the result is always comforting, filling, and full of flavor.
So here’s my challenge to you: grab a skillet, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together—and how deeply satisfying it is to make something so delicious from scratch. If you’re anything like me, you might find yourself sneaking a few extra bites straight from the pan before it even hits the plate.
And when you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you make any swaps or try a new twist? Did your family love it as much as mine does? Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or tag me in your photos on social media. Seeing your kitchen creations always brings me so much joy, and I can’t wait to see how you bring this dish to life.
Until next time—happy cooking, and may your skillet always be full of flavor!
PrintCreamy Chicken Cauliflower Rice Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy chicken cauliflower rice skillet is a comforting, healthy one-pan meal. Made with shredded chicken, mozzarella, arugula, dill, and red pesto, it’s light, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
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1 cup shredded chicken (cooked or leftover)
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2½ cups cauliflower rice
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1 tomato, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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⅔ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1 cup arugula
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3 tbsp chopped dill
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1 tbsp olive oil
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½ cup milk
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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2 tbsp red pesto
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: Parmesan for topping
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped tomato, cook 1–2 minutes.
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Add cauliflower rice and minced garlic. Sauté 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in chicken, tomato paste, pesto, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook 2–3 minutes.
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Pour in milk and half of the mozzarella. Cover again and cook 2–3 minutes.
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Add arugula, dill, and remaining cheese. Stir and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted and creamy.
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Optional: Top with Parmesan and extra black pepper before serving.
Notes
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You can use frozen or fresh cauliflower rice.
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For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese and milk.
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Substitute arugula with baby spinach if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Healthy / Modern Comfort Food