This Pesto Chicken with Zucchini Noodles recipe offers a fresh, flavorful, and quick weeknight meal. You will love how easy it is to prepare this healthy chicken recipe that’s bursting with vibrant flavors. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for a satisfying yet light dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Pesto: Store-bought or homemade basil pesto works wonderfully.
- Zucchini: Yellow squash or spiralized carrots can be used as alternatives to zucchini noodles.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes or diced bell peppers add a different flavor profile.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (omit for dairy-free)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380-420 calories
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, spiralizer or vegetable peeler, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. This step ensures every bite of your healthy chicken recipe is seasoned perfectly.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and lightly golden. Make sure no pink remains.
3. Add Pesto and Tomatoes
Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the pesto and halved cherry tomatoes with the cooked chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate Zucchini Noodles
Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss gently with the chicken, pesto, and tomatoes for 2-3 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to prevent soggy noodles.
5. Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Pesto Chicken with Zucchini Noodles immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy this fantastic healthy chicken recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Lemon Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
- Spinach Boost: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking for extra greens.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for added texture.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat if you like a kick.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Pesto Chicken with Zucchini Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until just heated through. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles, as they can become watery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and spiralize the zucchini ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and assemble right before serving for the freshest taste.
How do you prevent zucchini noodles from getting watery?
Do not overcook them. Cook them just until tender-crisp, usually only 2-3 minutes in a hot skillet.
What if you don’t have a spiralizer?
You can use a vegetable peeler to make wide ribbons of zucchini, then cut them into thinner strips.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Pesto Chicken with Zucchini Noodles recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can you use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely, store-bought pesto is a convenient and delicious option for this recipe.
How can you increase the protein content?
You can increase the amount of chicken or add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds.
