This Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo is a creamy delight made with tender chicken and fresh zucchini noodles. It’s a perfect way to enjoy pasta without the carbs!
You’ll love how quick and simple it is to whip this up. I often serve it on busy nights when I want something delicious without the fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love sneaking in some veggies? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for making noodles in this dish. If zucchini is scarce, you can use yellow squash or even carrots as alternatives. Just remember that they will slightly change the flavor!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it lean, but you could use thighs for a juicier option. Leftover rotisserie chicken is great too for a quicker meal.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk with added thickener. Keep in mind that substitutes can change the sauce’s creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Just adjust the amount for taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Noodles Don’t Get Soggy?
A common challenge with zucchini noodles is preventing them from becoming mushy. Here are some tips:
- Only cook the zucchini noodles briefly—about 2-3 minutes is enough to heat them through while keeping a nice crunch.
- Consider patting the spiralized zucchini dry with a paper towel before adding them to the skillet. This will remove extra water.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If necessary, cook the noodles in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
Following these tips will keep your noodles tasty and just the right texture! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough to make after a long day and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked through and have a lovely golden brown color. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This helps to infuse the oil with delicious garlic flavor!
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Lower the heat a bit and add the butter to the pan, allowing it to melt into the garlic. Then, pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional nutmeg. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes nice and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Combine the Chicken:
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. This way, every bite will have that creamy flavor!
7. Toss in the Zucchini Noodles:
Finally, add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet. Gently toss them in the Alfredo sauce to coat them well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the noodles are just tender but still have a bit of crunch. You want to keep that fresh taste!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and you’re all set! Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Can I Use Store-Bought Zucchini Noodles?
Absolutely! Store-bought zucchini noodles are a great time-saver. Just make sure to follow package instructions for cooking time, as they may vary slightly from fresh noodles.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Yes, you can! Other vegetables like spaghetti squash or even carrots can be used. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to maintain a nice crunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it doesn’t use traditional pasta. Just check your Parmesan cheese and other ingredients for any additives if you’re highly sensitive to gluten!
