This Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo is a light and tasty twist on a classic dish! With tender chicken and spiralized zucchini, it’s creamy and oh-so-delicious!
I love how this dish makes me feel good about eating pasta. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up! You can have a yummy dinner ready in no time, and no heavy carbs! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star here, providing that noodle-like texture without the carbs. If you can’t find zucchini, you could try yellow squash as a substitute. Just keep in mind it may have a slightly different flavor.
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein. If you’re in a rush, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor with less prep time!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for something lighter, you could use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just realize the flavor will change a bit!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can work nicely as a substitute. It’s a bit saltier, so taste as you go!
How Do I Prevent Soggy Zucchini Noodles?
One challenge with zucchini noodles is keeping them crunchy. Here’s how to do it:
- Spiralize your zucchini right before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
- Don’t overcook the noodles! Toss them in the sauce for just a few minutes to soften. They should still have a bit of bite.
- If you like, you can briefly sauté the zucchini noodles separately in a dry pan to help remove some water after spiralizing.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously crunchy noodles with your Chicken Alfredo!
Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, take out the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds. You want it just enough to release that amazing garlic aroma!
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Add the butter and then pour in the heavy cream. Stir it around and keep an eye on it as it warms up—bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Whisk in the Cheese:
Now, slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens a bit, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Taste your sauce and add salt and pepper as needed.
5. Add Zucchini Noodles:
Next, toss in the spiralized zucchini noodles. Gently mix them into the Alfredo sauce, cooking for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to soften slightly but still have a nice crunch to them.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and give everything a good toss until well mixed and heated through. It’s ready to serve!
7. Garnish:
Plate it up and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. Enjoy your creamy, delicious, low-carb version of Chicken Alfredo!
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Can I Use Store-Bought Zucchini Noodles?
Absolutely! Store-bought zucchini noodles (also known as “zoodles”) can save you time. Just make sure to briefly sauté them to remove excess moisture before adding them to the Alfredo sauce.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the cheese, try using a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just heat them up and add the zucchini noodles right before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
