Mexican Paella with Cauliflower Rice

Mexican Paella with Cauliflower Rice
  • PREP TIME
    10 mins
  • COOK TIME
    45 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    55 mins
  • SERVING
    8 People
  • VIEWS
    85

A vibrant and flavorful grain-free paella, infused with the rich tastes of Mexico. Featuring spicy chorizo, tender chicken, flaky tilapia, and the delightful lightness of cauliflower rice, this dish is a showstopper for any occasion.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    12 g
  • Cholesterol
    74 mg
  • Fiber
    3 g
  • Protein
    29 g
  • Saturated Fat
    8 g
  • Sodium
    1244 mg
  • Sugar
    5 g
  • Fat
    23 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a paella pan or large skillet over medium-high heat, add the chorizo. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and the fat is rendered, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Transfer the chorizo and chicken to a plate, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.

02

Step

Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 cups of cauliflower rice to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

03

Step

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, then add the bay leaves, thyme, saffron, and basil. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Return the cooked chorizo and chicken to the pan. Stir in the water, tomato paste, and crumbled bouillon cubes, ensuring everything is well incorporated. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15 minutes.

04

Step

Remove the lid and gently fold in the frozen peas and the remaining 1 cup of cauliflower rice. Arrange the thawed tilapia fillets on top of the paella mixture. Cover the pan again and steam for another 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

05

Step

Remove the lid and check for doneness. Gently break apart the tilapia fillets with a wooden spoon and stir to incorporate the chunks of fish into the paella. Be careful not to over-stir and break the fish into very small pieces.

06

Step

Serve the paella hot, directly from the pan for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
If you don't have fresh thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme can be substituted.
Adjust the amount of chorizo based on your spice preference. For a milder dish, use a sweet chorizo instead of a spicy one.
To ensure even cooking, make sure the tilapia fillets are fully thawed before adding them to the paella.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.

Claudie Waters

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.8/ 5 ( 28 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (10)
  • Lorna Konopelski

    This recipe is fantastic! The flavors are so vibrant, and it's a great way to enjoy paella without the rice.

  • Zelma Krajcik

    I've tried a lot of paella recipes, and this one is definitely a winner!

  • Lexi Torphy

    Great and delicious recipe, thank you for sharing!

  • Sigurd Ohara

    Easy to follow and delicious. I'll definitely be making this again.

  • Talia Koepp

    I substituted shrimp for the tilapia, and it was equally delicious.

  • Loyce Huel

    This is a great weeknight meal. Quick, easy and tasty!

  • Sheridan Heller

    The saffron really makes this dish special. I added a little extra for a more intense flavor.

  • Tina Ferry

    The flavors work so well together. I will make this again for sure!

  • Cornelius Langworth

    Very delicious and healthy!

  • Lauriane Schaeferullrich

    I was a bit skeptical about using cauliflower rice, but it turned out amazing. My family loved it!

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