The dish known as Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos is a delightful and nutritious twist on traditional breakfast burritos. This meal takes the core elements of the classic breakfast burrito and enhances them with the health-focused substitution of cauliflower hummus, introducing an inventive and wholesome component to start the day.
Cauliflower hummus serves as a lower-carb and veggie-packed alternative to traditional chickpea hummus. It retains a creamy texture and can be seasoned in much the same way as its legume-based counterpart, often with ingredients like garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and various spices. The inclusion of this cauliflower variant not only boosts the nutritional profile but also infuses the burritos with subtle, nuanced flavors that complement the chicken and other fillings.
In the preparation of the burritos, the chicken is typically cooked to tender perfection, with options for seasoning that may include savory spices and herbs to match one’s pallet. It might be grilled, roasted, or pan-fried and then sliced or shredded before being added to the wrap. Lean chicken breast is a common choice for a health-conscious approach, although thigh meat could be used for a richer flavor.
Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos Recipe
Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos
Equipment
- 1 medium skillet
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower cut into florets and steamed
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 cups chopped chicken breast
- 4 large green leaf lettuce leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- 1 large head cauliflower ,cut into florets and steamed
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest – Using this microplane to zest is super easy and saves your fingers from getting scratched.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste;1/2 teaspoon garlic powder;1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; and 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Pulse until smooth. – This is the food processor brand I’ve used for 16 years (at the time of this post)
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the oil. To the oil, add the chicken and sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cook for 10 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.In the lettuce leaves, layer the hummus, chicken and cilantro.
- Roll up the lettuce leaves and serve.
Tips for making about Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos
Cooking tips
- Cauliflower Hummus Preparation:
- Steam or roast the cauliflower until tender before blending it into hummus. This will ensure a smooth consistency that mimics traditional chickpea hummus.
- While making cauliflower hummus, add garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and your preferred spices to taste. Blend until smooth, and if needed, adjust the seasoning after tasting.
- Chicken Cooking:
- Choose lean chicken breast or thigh based on your preference for a lighter or richer flavor. Cook the chicken thoroughly with seasonings like cumin, paprika, or a taco seasoning blend to infuse it with flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking before cutting into it. This helps retain the juices, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful when added to the burrito.
- Additional Ingredients:
- Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach in your burrito for added texture, flavor, and nutrient content.
- If including scrambled eggs or egg whites, cook them separately to your liking, and season well before adding to the burrito.
- Wrapping the Burrito:
- Warm the tortillas slightly before filling and wrapping; this makes them more pliable and less likely to tear.
- Be mindful of portion sizes to ensure the burrito can be wrapped tightly without ingredients spilling out. Lay out the tortilla and place each ingredient in layers, leaving ample space at the edges.
- Customization and Serving:
- These burritos are easily customizable—add cheese for richness or keep it dairy-free if preferred.
- Serve immediately after heating through, or wrap the burritos in foil to keep them warm if there’s a wait before serving.
Serving suggestions
- Accompany with Fresh Produce: Pair the breakfast burritos with a side of fresh fruit or a berry medley for a refreshing balance to the savory flavors.
- Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Serve with a homemade or store-bought salsa, pico de gallo, or guacamole for added freshness, acidity, and a creamy touch that complements the wrap.
- Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of Greek yogurt or light sour cream can provide a tangy contrast and creamy texture alongside the hearty burrito.
- Cheese Option: Offer shredded cheese on the side or melt it on top of the burrito for those who enjoy extra cheesy goodness in their breakfast.
- Hot Sauces and Spices: Provide a selection of hot sauces or chili flakes for those who prefer a spicy kick to start their day.
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to add a healthy and vibrant component to the meal.
- Beverage Pairings: Enjoy the burritos with a cup of coffee, tea, or a fresh juice. For a weekend brunch feel, a mimosa or bloody mary can make the meal more festive.
- Warmed Tortillas: Have extra warmed tortillas on hand for those who might want to adjust the filling-to-tortilla ratio or make their burritos to taste.
Top 5 FAQs about Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos
- What makes Cauliflower Hummus a good substitute for traditional chickpea hummus in breakfast burritos? Cauliflower Hummus is a lower-carb substitute that adds extra vegetables to your meal. It retains a creamy texture similar to chickpea hummus and can be seasoned similarly, making it a nutritious and tasty alternative.
- Can I use store-bought cauliflower hummus for this recipe, and will it affect the taste? Of course, you can use store-bought cauliflower hummus for convenience. Keep in mind that homemade hummus allows you to adjust the seasoning to your preference, which might slightly alter the taste compared to a pre-made version.
- What type of chicken is best for the breakfast burritos, and how should it be cooked? Lean chicken breast is suggested for a health-conscious choice due to its lower fat content, but thigh meat can be used for more flavor. The chicken should be cooked with seasonings like cumin or paprika until tender, then sliced or shredded for the burrito.
- How can I make sure that the breakfast burritos don’t get soggy when filled? To avoid sogginess, ensure that ingredients with higher moisture content, such as the cauliflower hummus and scrambled eggs, are cooled down before adding them to the tortilla. Warm the tortillas slightly for pliability, but not too much to prevent steaming.
- Are there any make-ahead tips for Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos? These burritos can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. For reheating, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. They can also be frozen; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a convenient breakfast option.
In conclusion, Cauliflower Hummus and Chicken Breakfast Burritos stand out as a creative and health-conscious choice for those seeking a delicious and fulfilling breakfast or brunch option. By incorporating cauliflower hummus, this dish provides a lower-carb alternative that is equally creamy and flavorful compared to traditional chickpea hummus. It not only adds an extra serving of vegetables to the meal but also opens up opportunities for personalized seasoning to cater to individual tastes.
The lean chicken, whether breast or thigh meat, cooked with a blend of spices, adds a protein-packed component that ensures the burritos are both satisfying and nourishing. The inclusion of additional ingredients like vegetables and eggs contributes various textures and boosts the overall nutrient content.