Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken: A Fresh and Flavorful Meal

If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner, Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken checks all the boxes. This dish combines tender chicken, crisp zucchini noodles, and vibrant pesto for a low-carb, nutrient-packed meal that’s full of flavor.

Not only is this recipe quick and simple, but it also feels indulgent without the heaviness of traditional pasta dishes. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want something that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

• Healthy and Low-Carb: Zucchini noodles are a great alternative to pasta, reducing carbs while adding vitamins and minerals.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy schedules.
• Packed with Flavor: The rich pesto, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies create a satisfying and tasty dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, swap proteins, or adjust the spice level.
• Visually Stunning: The bright colors of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and basil make this meal a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients for Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Zucchini	4 medium	Spiralized into noodles (or store-bought).
Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)	1 lb	Cut into bite-sized chunks.
Avocado or olive oil	2 tbsp	For sautéing.
Sea salt and pepper	To taste	Essential for seasoning the chicken and noodles.

Toppings and Flavor Additions

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Pesto	½ cup	Use your favorite store-bought or homemade pesto.
Cherry tomatoes	2 cups (halved)	Adds sweetness and texture.
Parmesan cheese	⅓ cup (plus more)	For a cheesy, savory finish.
Fresh basil	For garnish	Adds a burst of freshness.
Crushed red pepper	Optional	For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

1. Use a spiralizer to create thin zucchini noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, try a vegetable peeler for ribbon-style noodles or a mandolin with a julienne blade.
2. Alternatively, save time by purchasing pre-spiralized zucchini noodles from the store.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken chunks and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté the Zucchini Noodles

1. In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the zucchini noodles, pesto, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Stir everything together, cooking for about 1 minute, until the zucchini noodles are slightly softened and coated with the pesto.

4. Combine and Finish

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the zucchini noodles.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese and toss everything together, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Portion the zucchini noodles and chicken into bowls or plates.
2. Garnish with fresh basil, additional Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper for a little heat.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

1. Don’t Overcook the Zucchini Noodles: Zucchini releases water as it cooks, so keep the cooking time short to avoid soggy noodles.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pesto, juicy tomatoes, and crisp zucchini make all the difference in flavor.
3. Prep Ahead: Spiralize the zucchini and chop the chicken in advance to save time.
4. Choose Quality Pesto: A high-quality pesto will elevate the dish. Try making your own for a personal touch.
5. Switch It Up: Use shrimp, tofu, or another protein to customize the recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290–320
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	420mg

Serving Suggestions for Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, here are a few ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover pesto.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted asparagus or broccoli for extra veggies.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh flavors.

FAQs About Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken

1. Can I use store-bought zucchini noodles?

Yes! Pre-spiralized zucchini noodles are a great time-saver and work perfectly in this recipe.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to prevent overcooking the zucchini.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu.

4. How can I prevent watery zucchini noodles?

Avoid overcooking the noodles and consider lightly salting them and patting them dry before cooking to reduce excess moisture.

5. What’s a good substitute for pesto?

If you don’t have pesto, try using a garlic and herb olive oil or a light Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.

6. Can I freeze zucchini noodles?

While it’s possible to freeze raw zucchini noodles, they can become mushy when thawed. It’s best to make this dish fresh.

Why You’ll Want to Make This Recipe Again and Again

Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken combines everything you could want in a meal—flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Conclusion: Try Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken Tonight

There’s no need to compromise between flavor and health when you have this easy, delicious recipe in your repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a light lunch, or an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken has you covered.

Ready to make it? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy this vibrant, satisfying dish tonight!

Print