Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken has quickly become one of my go-to meals. It’s the perfect combination of fresh, healthy, and full of flavor. I first tried this recipe when I was looking for a low-carb dinner that was still packed with taste and didn’t feel like a “diet” meal. The zucchini noodles serve as a light, crunchy base, while the pesto chicken brings all the richness and herbaceous goodness to the dish. Not to mention, it's keto-friendly, so I can enjoy it without any guilt.
I often make this dish when I'm craving something filling yet refreshing, and it never disappoints. Whether you're preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a light weekend lunch, Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken is a versatile option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This dish is perfect for those following a keto lifestyle, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
- Packed with Flavor: The fresh pesto and tender chicken elevate the zucchini noodles to new levels.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for a busy day.
- Light & Refreshing: Zucchini noodles provide a fresh, veggie-packed base that keeps the dish light but filling.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the pesto to suit your taste, or even add other veggies for variety.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken is a keto-friendly meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With a blend of tender grilled chicken, fresh zucchini noodles, and a homemade pesto sauce, it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re trying to reduce carbs or just want a lighter, healthier option, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-inspired, Keto
Ingredients List
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added zest)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until everything is finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while processing until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Prepare the zucchini noodles: While the chicken is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles. You can also use a vegetable peeler for ribbon-style noodles if you prefer.
- Sauté the zucchini noodles: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender. You don’t want them to get too soft, so keep an eye on them.
- Assemble the dish: Once the noodles are ready, remove from the skillet and place them on plates. Top with the sliced pesto chicken. Drizzle with the fresh pesto sauce and add a squeeze of lemon juice if you like. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
Storage Options
This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The zucchini noodles may release some moisture, so it’s a good idea to store them separately from the chicken and pesto. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a little more pesto to refresh the flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 470
- Fat: 32g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4g
This Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Chicken is a dish that I always turn to when I need something quick, healthy, and flavorful. The zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, and the pesto chicken takes it to the next level with fresh, vibrant flavors. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to leave a review or share your version on social media! You can also tag me in your photos. I can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own!