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Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken: A Fresh and Flavorful Meal


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  • Author: Stacy
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Pesto Zucchini Noodles with Chicken is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that pairs juicy chicken with crisp zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and rich pesto. It’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 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 black pepper: To taste (for seasoning chicken and noodles)

Toppings and Flavor Additions

  • Pesto: ½ cup (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups (halved)
  • Parmesan cheese: ⅓ cup (plus more for garnish)
  • Fresh basil: For garnish
  • Crushed red pepper: Optional (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles

  1. Use a spiralizer to create thin zucchini noodles. Alternatively, use a vegetable peeler for ribbon-style noodles or a mandolin with a julienne blade.
  2. Save time by using store-bought pre-spiralized zucchini noodles if needed.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken chunks and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Transfer the 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 to coat the noodles evenly with pesto, cooking for about 1 minute until the noodles are slightly softened.

4. Combine and Finish

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the zucchini noodles.
  2. Add Parmesan cheese and toss everything together, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Taste 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, extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper (if desired).
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Avoid Soggy Noodles: Keep the cooking time short as zucchini releases water quickly.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pesto, ripe cherry tomatoes, and crisp zucchini elevate the flavor.
  • Prep Ahead: Spiralize zucchini and chop chicken in advance for an even quicker meal.
  • Switch Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
  • Make It Your Own: Add toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired