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Healthy Zucchini Noodles with Chicken Recipe Easy Keto Protein Boost

healthy zucchini noodles with chicken - featured image

A quick, keto-friendly, and protein-packed meal featuring tender chicken and crisp zucchini noodles tossed in a garlicky, herb-infused sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 3 medium zucchinis
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat dry chicken breasts and cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper and set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Wash and dry zucchinis. Spiralize into noodles and place in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and toss gently. Let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add a teaspoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chopped fresh herbs.
  5. Add zucchini noodles to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to keep noodles tender but crisp.
  6. Return chicken to the pan. Drizzle lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine. Heat through for 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  7. Serve immediately, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Salt zucchini noodles and let them drain for 10 minutes before cooking to prevent sogginess. Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking chicken to ensure a golden crust. Cook zucchini noodles quickly to keep their crunch. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast or toasted nuts. Store noodles and chicken separately for leftovers and reheat gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini noodles, chicken, keto, low-carb, healthy, spiralizer, quick dinner, protein, gluten-free