Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A healthy and delicious dish that combines tender chicken breast with fresh zucchini noodles for a light yet satisfying meal.

Rosie Mitchell

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:31:10.186Z

This Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken paired with the lightness of zucchini noodles creates a healthy and satisfying meal that's quick to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes
  • Packed with protein and vitamins from fresh ingredients
  • Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
  • Deliciously seasoned for a burst of flavor in every bite

The Benefits of Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles, often referred to as 'zoodles,' are an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. They provide a similar texture while significantly reducing calorie intake. This makes them a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, making it a nutrient-dense option for any meal.

Incorporating zucchini noodles into your diet can help increase your vegetable intake while keeping meals light and fresh. They are also a great source of hydration, as zucchini has a high water content. This not only aids in digestion but also helps to keep you feeling full longer, making it easier to resist unhealthy snacks throughout the day.

Perfect Protein Pairing

Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing muscles. Coupled with the nutritious zucchini noodles, this dish offers a balanced meal that supports an active lifestyle. Protein is crucial for maintaining energy levels and promoting satiety, which can help manage weight effectively.

By seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, you enhance its natural flavors without adding unnecessary calories. This simple preparation method keeps the focus on the quality of the ingredients while delivering a delicious meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

One of the standout features of this Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles recipe is its speed and simplicity. With a preparation and cooking time of under thirty minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights. You can have a nutritious meal on the table in no time, making it easier to stick to healthy eating habits even with a hectic schedule.

The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the seasonings to keep things exciting. This adaptability means you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences while still enjoying a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Zucchini Noodles

  • 2 large zucchinis
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the zucchini noodles for extra flavor and nutrition!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.

Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Make the Zucchini Noodles

Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create noodles from the zucchinis. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Combine and Serve

Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over the zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your healthy meal!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and zucchini noodles separately in airtight containers. This helps maintain the texture of the zoodles, preventing them from becoming soggy. The chicken can typically last in the fridge for up to three days, while the zoodles should be consumed within two days for optimal freshness.

Reheating the chicken is straightforward; simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the zucchini noodles, consider quickly sautéing them again with a dash of olive oil to revive their flavor and texture before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. Consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the chicken and zucchini. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can also elevate the taste, giving it a richer profile without overwhelming the dish.

For those looking for a bit more spice, serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. This can enhance the flavor experience, making each bite even more satisfying.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes! You can use carrots, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I prep this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and zucchini noodles in advance, but it's best to cook them fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles

A healthy and delicious dish that combines tender chicken breast with fresh zucchini noodles for a light yet satisfying meal.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Rosie Mitchell

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken

  1. 2 chicken breasts
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  4. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Zucchini Noodles

  1. 2 large zucchinis
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  4. Fresh basil for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 02

Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create noodles from the zucchinis. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 03

Slice the chicken breasts and serve them over the zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy your healthy meal!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 30g