Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A light and healthy dish that combines tender chicken breast with fresh zucchini noodles for a refreshing twist on a classic meal.
This Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken paired with the crunch of zucchini makes for a delightful dish that is both satisfying and healthy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing, perfect for a summer meal
- Easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Packed with protein and veggies for a nutritious option
A Deliciously Healthy Choice
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. When paired with zucchini noodles, this dish becomes a powerhouse of nutrients. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a perfect alternative to traditional pasta. Together, these ingredients create a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
This recipe is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Whether you prefer a hint of lemon, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, or a touch of chili flakes for heat, the possibilities are endless. This flexibility makes it easy to adjust the dish to suit your taste preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch of chicken and spiralized zucchini on the weekend and store them in the fridge. This way, you’ll have a quick and healthy meal ready to go during the busy week, saving you time and effort while ensuring you eat well.
To keep the zucchini noodles fresh, it's best to store them separately from the chicken to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat the chicken and sauté the zucchini noodles briefly for a delicious, quick meal that feels gourmet.
A Family-Friendly Dish
This recipe is not just for fitness enthusiasts; it’s also a great way to introduce more vegetables into your family’s diet. Kids often love the fun shape of zucchini noodles, and with the savory chicken breast, they won’t even realize they’re eating something healthy. You can even involve them in the cooking process by letting them help with the spiralizing of the zucchinis, making it a fun family activity.
If your family enjoys a bit of a kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha over the top before serving. This simple addition can elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of spice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Zucchini Noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Make sure to wash and dry all vegetables before preparation.
Steps
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
Make the Zucchini Noodles
While the chicken is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 3-4 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and serve over the zucchini noodles. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
This dish is best served immediately for the freshest taste.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains important nutrients such as B vitamins, which are vital for energy metabolism. Zucchini, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants and fiber, promoting good digestive health and helping to keep you full longer.
By incorporating both chicken and zucchini into your meals, you can easily meet your daily protein and vegetable intake recommendations. This dish not only nourishes your body but also supports overall health and well-being.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. A light vinaigrette can enhance the freshness of the salad and complement the flavors of the chicken and zucchini. You may also want to pair it with a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful dining experience.
If you’re looking to add more flavor, toss in some cherry tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers with the zucchini noodles. This will add vibrant colors and additional nutrients, creating an even more appealing plate.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet and sauté the zucchini noodles briefly to retain their texture. Avoid microwaving the zucchini as it can become mushy and lose its pleasant bite.
If you have any leftover zucchini noodles, consider transforming them into a fresh salad by adding a light dressing and some chopped veggies. This way, you can enjoy a different dish while minimizing food waste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can substitute with spaghetti squash or even carrots for a different flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten ingredients.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad or steamed vegetables would complement this meal well.
Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles
A light and healthy dish that combines tender chicken breast with fresh zucchini noodles for a refreshing twist on a classic meal.
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Zucchini Noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 3-4 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and serve over the zucchini noodles. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 40g