If you’re searching for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal, garlic butter chicken meatballs with cauliflower is the perfect recipe to try. This dish features juicy chicken meatballs infused with garlic and herbs, cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, and served over fluffy cauliflower rice. It’s a low-carb, keto-friendly meal that’s packed with protein and flavor, making it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without the carbs.
This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to impress guests. The combination of tender meatballs and buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with the light, slightly nutty cauliflower rice, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for your family, this garlic butter chicken meatballs cauliflower recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Cauliflower
- Low-carb and keto-friendly: Perfect for healthy eating and weight management.
- High protein: Chicken meatballs provide a filling, nutritious meal.
- Easy to prepare: Minimal ingredients and simple steps.
- Flavor-packed: Garlic butter sauce adds richness and depth.
- Versatile: Customize with herbs, spices, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Meatballs
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or turkey)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone)
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 crumbled bouillon cube (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- ½ cup chicken stock
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Sriracha)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Additional parsley for garnish
For the Cauliflower Rice
- 1 medium cauliflower head, grated, or 1 packet of riced cauliflower
- ½ cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice
Start by grating the cauliflower using a large grater or food processor. Transfer the grated cauliflower to a microwave-safe dish, add ½ cup water, and cover. Microwave for about 4 minutes until tender but still fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheese, grated garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed chili flakes (if using), crumbled bouillon cube, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well using your hands or a fork. Form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. While cooking, baste the meatballs with the melted butter and juices in the pan to keep them moist and flavorful. Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a clean plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken stock, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring regularly until it reduces slightly and thickens. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked cauliflower rice to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and toss to coat evenly. Plate the cauliflower rice and top with the garlic butter chicken meatballs. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or cilantro and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Cauliflower
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor punch.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking meatballs to ensure even browning.
- Basting meatballs with butter while cooking keeps them juicy.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili flakes or hot sauce.
- For extra flavor, add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the cauliflower rice.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep, lunches, or dinners.
Variations and Add-Ons
| Variation | Description |
| Spicy Version | Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. |
| Cheese Options | Use sharp cheddar or pepper jack for more flavor. |
| Veggie Boost | Mix in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. |
| Herb Swap | Use cilantro instead of parsley for a fresh twist. |
| Sauce Variation | Add a splash of cream to the sauce for extra richness. |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light, fresh contrast.
- Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Add a side of garlic bread or low-carb flatbread for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar texture and flavor. Adjust cooking time if needed.
2. Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Absolutely! The cauliflower rice replaces traditional carb-heavy sides, making this dish keto and low-carb friendly.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and cauliflower rice in advance. Store separately in the fridge and reheat together before serving.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
5. Can I freeze garlic butter chicken meatballs?
Yes, freeze cooked meatballs and cauliflower rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Related Recipes
- Spinach Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Grilled Shrimp Asparagus Bowl Recipe
- Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter chicken meatballs, cauliflower is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy meal that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Combining tender chicken meatballs with a rich garlic butter sauce and light cauliflower rice, this dish offers a satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional comfort foods. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity, taste, and health benefits. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, wholesome meal!
Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs Cauliflower Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium head cauliflower cut into florets
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 more cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp chili flakes optional
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt & pepper into a dough.
- Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook meatballs until browned and cooked through, remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add cauliflower florets and sauté until slightly tender.
- Add butter, minced garlic, chili flakes, and lemon juice to the skillet.
- Return meatballs to the pan, toss everything to coat in the garlic butter.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can swap cauliflower with broccoli or zucchini.
- Add a splash of chicken broth if the skillet gets too dry.
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
