Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles

Name: Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Instant Meal Solutions

This Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles dish brings together tender chicken and fresh zucchini in a rich, creamy sauce that's perfect for a healthy dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T20:02:18.763Z

This recipe combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with protein-packed chicken, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that's also low in carbs. The creamy sauce elevates the flavors, making it an instant favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that coats every bite
Fresh zucchini zoodles for a low-carb option
Quick and easy to prepare on busy weeknights

      

A Healthy Twist on Dinner

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be a challenge. This Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles recipe is not only quick to make but also offers a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta dishes. By substituting pasta with spiralized zucchini, you're able to enjoy all the flavors of a creamy chicken dinner while keeping carbs in check.

Zoodles are not just a trendy food; they pack essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to your diet. Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber, contributing to a healthy digestive system. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a nourishing meal that supports your overall wellness.

Tips for Perfect Zoodles

When making zoodles, it's important to choose the right zucchini. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis, as they tend to have a firmer texture, making them ideal for spiralizing. Before cooking, make sure to pat the zoodles dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent your dish from becoming watery and ensure that the sauce clings beautifully to each strand.

Cooking zoodles requires a gentle touch. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for just a few minutes in the skillet. The goal is to maintain a slight crunch while allowing them to soak up the creamy sauce. This balance creates a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this recipe shines with chicken, feel free to experiment with other proteins! Shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu can be seamlessly integrated into the dish. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For an added burst of flavor, consider incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes. These not only enhance the dish’s color but also add a nutritional boost. Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes until thickened.

Combine with Zoodles

Add the spiralized zucchini to the sauce, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are tender. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine.

Serve

Plate the creamy chicken and zoodles, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious and creamy meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles recipe is a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken, while also being rich in vitamins from the zucchini. Heavy cream adds a luscious texture, and while it's higher in calories, using it in moderation allows you to indulge without overdoing it. The balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber makes this meal both filling and nutritious.

Adding Parmesan cheese not only elevates the flavor but also provides calcium and additional protein. For those looking to reduce calories, consider using a reduced-fat cream or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy sauce without compromising your dietary goals.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that zoodles can release moisture over time, which might affect the texture of the dish. To reheat, it's best to do so gently on the stovetop to preserve the integrity of the zoodles.

If you’re planning to meal prep, consider cooking the chicken and sauce separately from the zoodles. Spiralized zucchini can be stored raw and cooked fresh when you’re ready to eat. This method ensures that every bite of zoodles remains deliciously crisp and fresh, enhancing your dining experience.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Creamy Chicken and Zucchini Zoodles, consider pairing it with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine balances the creaminess of the dish, creating a delightful harmony on your palate.

For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime can refresh your taste buds. Adding a side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice can round out the meal perfectly, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can substitute zucchini with other spiralized vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it uses zucchini instead of traditional pasta.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! You can prepare the zoodles and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.