Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles a Zesty Healthy Dinner

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles Quick Zesty Healthy
By Zelia ThorneUpdated:

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave something light, zesty, and super satisfying? This lemon garlic chicken zoodles recipe is your answer! It's sunshine in a bowl, bursting with fresh flavours and a healthy twist.

Brief Overview

This dish is inspired by those classic Mediterranean flavours. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It's seriously easy and takes only about 35 minutes. This recipe makes about 2 servings.

Main Benefits

Honestly, one of the best things about this is that it's low-carb and gluten-free. It's also packed with protein and vitamins from the zucchini.

It's a light yet flavorful choice that everyone will enjoy. Based on that lovely recipe, here are 10 aimed at getting some search engine love for "lemon garlic chicken zoodles":

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Okay, right then! Let's get this party started. First, you'll need:

What you Need to make Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles

  • Chicken: You will need 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 350g / 12 oz).
  • Zoodles: Grab 2 medium zucchini (about 450g / 1 lb) for making your zoodles.
  • Lemon Garlic Sauce: Don't forget butter, garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and parmesan. You can add parsley if you like.
  • Seasoning You'll also need olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Trust me, you'll be amazed at how easy and delicious this dish is. I remember the first time I made it.

I didn't pat the chicken dry enough. The result? It didn't brown properly. Learn from my mistakes!.

Don't overcook the zoodles!.

Ingredients & Equipment for Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles

Okay, right then! Let's get this lemon garlic chicken zoodles party started. I've made this so many times. Honestly, it's my go-to when I want something healthy and delicious.

It's like a big hug in a bowl! Now based on that lovely recipe, here are the ingredients you'll need.

Main Ingredients

  • Chicken: 350g (12 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bite sized. Look for chicken that's pink and firm, not pale or slimy. Trust me on this, it makes all the difference.
  • Zucchini: 450g (1 lb) , 2 medium zucchini, spiralized.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) , extra virgin is best!
  • Salt: ½ tsp (2.5g)
  • Black Pepper: ¼ tsp (1g)
  • Paprika: ½ tsp (2.5g)
  • Garlic Powder: ¼ tsp (1g)
  • Unsalted Butter: 2 tbsp (30g)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves , minced.
  • Chicken Broth: ¼ cup (60ml) .
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp (30ml) , freshly squeezed is essential !
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1 tbsp (5g) , grated (optional).
  • Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp (5g) , chopped for garnish (optional).
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch (0.5g, optional).

It's all about layers of flavor. The fresh lemon brightens everything.

Seasoning Notes

This lemon garlic chicken zoodles dish needs a little help to be elevated. Salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder is our base.

Don't skip the fresh garlic 3 cloves . Oh my gosh , the aroma is incredible. A little red pepper flake adds a nice kick, but totally optional.

If you don't have fresh parsley, dried works in a pinch, use half the amount.

Equipment Needed

You don't need a crazy amount of kit! A spiralizer is vital for the zoodles . Then you will need a large skillet or frying pan to sauté our lemon garlic chicken zoodles .

Knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons. No need to be fancy. You know? If you don't have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can make "zoodles" of sorts.

Remember! It is better for you to not overcook the zoodles in the lemon garlic sauce.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles: Cooking It Like a Pro

Okay, right then! Let's get this party started. Based on that lovely recipe, here are 10 aimed at getting some search engine love for lemon garlic chicken zoodles : Lemon garlic chicken zoodles recipe , Healthy chicken zoodle recipe , Low-carb chicken zoodles , gluten-free chicken zoodles , Zucchini noodles with lemon garlic chicken , Easy weeknight dinner recipes , Chicken zoodles with lemon butter sauce , Chicken and vegetable noodles recipe , Quick lemon chicken with zucchini noodles , Mediterranean chicken zoodles .

This recipe is all about getting a healthy, flavourful meal on the table fast.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic

Before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organised. It's like having your ducks in a row, innit? Essential mise en place means getting everything ready: chop the chicken, spiralize your 2 medium zucchinis, mince 3 cloves of garlic, squeeze the lemon the works.

Prepping ahead saves your bacon later. Time saving tip: I like to prep the ingredients while the skillet's warming up. Bang, bang, bang, all done! A wee safety reminder: Chicken can be a bit dodgy if not cooked properly, so make sure to wash your hands after handling it, yeah?

step-by-step: Zoodle Time!

Right, now for the fun bit. Here's how we get to lemon garlic chicken zoodles heaven:

  1. Toss your bite sized chicken pieces (about 350g / 12 oz) with 1 tbsp olive oil , ½ tsp salt , ¼ tsp black pepper , ½ tsp paprika , and ¼ tsp garlic powder .
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat . Add the chicken and cook for about 6- 8 minutes , until golden and cooked through. Set it aside; we'll need it later.
  3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat . Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds . Oh my gosh , the smell will be amazing!
  4. Pour in ¼ cup chicken broth and 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice . Bring to a simmer and cook for 2- 3 minutes until it's reduced a bit.
  5. Add those zoodles and toss to coat. Cook for only 1- 2 minutes . You want them heated but still a bit crisp, not soggy. Then stir in 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese , if you fancy.
  6. Dish it all up, divide between two bowls, and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Serve it up pronto!

Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen

Want to take your lemon garlic chicken zoodles to the next level? Easy peasy!

  • Don't overcook the zoodles, or they'll get soggy. You want a little bit of bite. I learned this the hard way... Honestly !
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps it brown better.
  • make-ahead? Sure! Cook the chicken and sauce, and spiralize the zucchini, then store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days . When you're ready to eat, just combine and cook the zoodles. Easy peasy lemon squeezy !
  • The Chicken should be cooked through to an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . That ensures the chicken is safe to eat.

Now you know the insider's scoop on how to make amazing lemon garlic chicken zoodles that are healthy, tasty, and super quick.

So, grab your spiralizer and get cooking! You know? This dish is a total win, a real crowd pleaser.

Recipe Notes: Tweak It 'Til You Love It!

Okay, right then! Let's get this party started.

Right, so you've seen the recipe for lemon garlic chicken zoodles . Now, let's chat about making it your own. Cooking should be fun, not a chore, you know? We'll cover serving, storage, variations, and nutrition.

Honestly, this healthy chicken zoodle recipe is just a starting point.

Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings!

Presentation is key. Try twirling your chicken zoodles with lemon butter sauce into a neat little nest on the plate.

A sprinkle of extra parsley and a lemon wedge? Chef's kiss. For sides, a simple green salad does the trick.

Or some crusty bread for mopping up that amazing sauce. A crisp white wine? Yes, please!

Storage Savvy

Got leftovers? Pop your lemon garlic chicken zoodles in an airtight container. They'll be good in the fridge for up to 3 days .

Freezing isn't ideal. The zucchini goes a bit sad. But, if you must, freeze without the zoodles, and add them fresh when you reheat.

Reheat gently in a pan, and don't overcook the zoodles, okay ?

Twists & Turns: Veggie Swaps & Diet Do-Overs

Fancy a change? Swap chicken for shrimp for a Mediterranean chicken zoodles vibe. dairy-free? Use olive oil instead of butter.

Ditch the parmesan. Craving heat? Add a pinch of cayenne. No zucchini? Use yellow squash. It is the easy weeknight dinner recipes you were looking for.

For a gluten-free chicken zoodles meal, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. This healthy chicken zoodle recipe can adapt to your needs.

Nutrition Nuggets

This low-carb chicken zoodles dish is packed with protein and vitamins. It is relatively low in calories and carbs, which is great.

Zucchini is also a good source of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Keep the portion sizes reasonable to manage your intake.

I made this lemon garlic chicken zoodles recipe for my family last week, and honestly, they loved it. It's quick, easy, and healthy.

Don't be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make lemon garlic chicken zoodles ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead. Cook the chicken and spiralize the zucchini, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply heat the chicken and toss with freshly made sauce and zoodles.

Bear in mind the zoodles might release a bit more water if pre-cut, so you might want to pat them dry.

My lemon garlic chicken zoodles are watery! What did I do wrong?

Zucchini naturally contains a lot of water. To prevent a watery dish, avoid overcooking the zoodles. Only toss them in the sauce for a minute or two until just heated through. You can also lightly salt the zoodles and let them sit in a colander for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture before cooking, a bit like preparing aubergines.

Is there a dairy-free version of lemon garlic chicken zoodles?

Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the butter in the sauce with olive oil. Omit the Parmesan cheese garnish, or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative if you fancy. The dish will still be bursting with flavour without the dairy!

How long does lemon garlic chicken zoodles last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the zoodles may become a bit softer as they sit, releasing more moisture. It's generally better enjoyed fresh, but a quick reheat in a pan can still give you a tasty lunch the next day.

Don't expect the same "just made" zing, though!

What other vegetables can I use instead of zucchini in this lemon garlic chicken zoodles recipe?

If you're not a fan of zucchini or just want to mix things up, yellow squash works wonderfully as a substitute. You could also try carrots or even sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavour profile, although the texture will be different. Remember to adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetable you choose.

I want to spice things up. How can I make spicy lemon garlic chicken zoodles?

Adding a bit of heat is a brilliant idea! For a gentle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic sauce. If you're after something bolder, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning before cooking.

A finely chopped fresh chili, like a birds eye, thrown in with the garlic would also do the trick nicely.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles A Zesty Healthy Din

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles Quick Zesty Healthy Recipe Card
0.0 / 5 (0 Review)
Preparation time:15 Mins
Cooking time:20 Mins
Servings:2 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts:

Calories350
Fat20g

Recipe Info:

CategoryMain Course
CuisineMediterranean
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