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A healthier twist on a classic Spanish favorite with this Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella. By replacing traditional rice with cauliflower, this dish is acceptable for gluten-free, low-carb, and paleo diets.
What is Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella
This Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella puts a twist on a classic Spanish dish by using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. The cauliflower absorbs the savory flavors of chicken and chorizo, resulting in a remarkably tasty dish.
You’ll experience the smokiness of paprika, the delicate essence of saffron, and a hint of warmth from cayenne pepper. The chorizo adds depth, complemented by the earthy taste of cauliflower, creating a satisfying texture and a rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish a standout choice for any meal.
A Low-Carb Alternative
Typically, paella is known for its rich flavors from rice, vegetables, meats, and seafood. In this low-carb recipe, the cauliflower stands in for rice, drastically reducing the carb content while maintaining the dish’s hearty texture and flavor.
Loaded with tender chicken and savory chorizo sausage, this paella offers a protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Chorizo, a staple in Spanish cuisine, brings its bold, spiced flavor to elevate the traditional dish.
Flavorful Spanish Spices
Enhanced with traditional Spanish spices like paprika, saffron, bay leaf, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish bursts with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Saffron, known for its robust taste and antioxidant properties, adds a luxurious touch to the paella.
Substitutions for Personalization
This Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella recipe is highly adaptable, allowing personalized variations to suit individual tastes and dietary needs. For those preferring a different protein, shrimp or a mix of seafood can easily replace the chicken and chorizo, maintaining the dish’s seafood-centric origins.
Make it Plant-Based
Vegetarians can choose plant-based sausages or tofu for a hearty, meat-free alternative. Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or artichoke hearts to add color and nutrition.
Why Choose Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella?
Ideal for busy weeknights, this Chicken and Chorizo Cauliflower Paella is quick to prepare without compromising on taste or nutrition. By using cauliflower instead of rice, it offers a lower-carb and lower-calorie alternative to a beloved Spanish dish, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Heat olive oil in a paella pan or a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add bell pepper and cook for another minute stirring frequently
2.
Increase heat to medium-high and add chicken, cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Add paprika, saffron, bay leaf, cayenne pepper flakes, and chorizo. Stir well to coat everything with the spices
3.
Add tomato sauce, 3 1/2 cups of chicken broth and season with salt. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes. Add cauliflower and parsley and bring to boil. Cook for 5 more minutes
4.
Whisk together remaining chicken broth with arrowroot/tapioca and add to the paella. Cook until the sauce thickens about 2 minutes. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and set aside for 10 minutes before serving
Leave a Comment
Kristina
I am sorry you didn’t enjoy it. You can always increase the chicken and the sausage and reduce the mount of cauliflower.
Zara
Not that great to be honest. It’s okay, but I wouldn’t make it again. Also not sure about the amount of cauliflower. Seems like way too much
Kristina
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