Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs cauliflower, riced (about 1 medium head or 4 cups frozen riced cauliflower)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 5 oz yellow onion, sliced into 1/4-1/2 inch strips
- 9 oz leeks, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 7 oz carrots, julienned
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped (or 1/2 to 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin 1/4-inch strips
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar, divided
- 5 tbsp coconut aminos, divided
- 1 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil (optional, for finishing)
- White or black sesame seeds, scallions, or pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Rice the Cauliflower
- If using fresh cauliflower: Remove the leaves and stem, cut into florets, and pulse in a food processor or blender until it resembles rice. Avoid over-blending to prevent mushiness.
- If using a box grater, use the large holes to grate the cauliflower.
- If using frozen riced cauliflower, you can skip this step.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion, leeks, and carrots. Season with ½ teaspoon sea salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the onions turn translucent and the carrots soften slightly but remain crunchy.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, followed by 1 tablespoon rice vinegar and 2 tablespoons coconut aminos.
- Stir frequently to prevent the garlic and ginger from burning.
Cook the Chicken
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season with the remaining ½ teaspoon salt and a pinch more black pepper.
- Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Add the Cauliflower Rice
- Stir in the cauliflower rice, remaining 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 3 tablespoons coconut aminos. Mix well and cook for 4–5 minutes, just until the cauliflower is tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to preserve texture.
- If using frozen cauliflower, you may need to cook a little longer—just until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Finish with Toasted Sesame Oil (Optional)
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil for a rich, nutty finish.
Notes
Recipe Tips & Substitutions
- For the best texture, use fresh cauliflower and pulse it gently—don’t over-blend. Frozen riced cauliflower works too, but will be softer.
- Use fresh ginger for optimal flavor, or sub with ½ to 1 tsp ground ginger.
- Sauté garlic and ginger gently to avoid burning and bitterness.
- Choose organic, pasture-raised chicken and vegetables when possible for better quality and nourishment.
- Stir in toasted sesame oil off the heat to preserve its nutty flavor and prevent bitterness.
Time Saving Tips
- Chop veggies ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Use pre-riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen) to skip the ricing step.
- Pre-slice chicken and store in the fridge or freeze in portions.
- Mince garlic and ginger in advance and store in a small jar with olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with sesame seeds, scallions, or pickled ginger.
- Top with a fried or soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
- Pair with fermented veggies like kimchi or sauerkraut.
- Serve over greens or colorful cabbage for a vibrant rice bowl.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight (preferably glass) container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Portion into freezer-friendly glass containers and freeze for up to 3 months
Final Notes
This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fried rice without the carbs! It’s satisfying, nutrient-packed, and easy to make. Try it for your next meal prep or weeknight dinner, and enjoy this delicious, keto-friendly, and gut-friendly twist on a takeout favorite!
- Prep Time: 25
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine: Chinese-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free