Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is a light and healthy dinner option that’s quick to make and full of flavor. This dish features juicy chicken breast cooked to perfection with zucchini noodles (zoodles), a flavorful garlic sauce, and a few simple ingredients, making it an easy weeknight meal that can be prepared in just 25 minutes. Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, allowing you to enjoy a comforting stir fry without the heaviness. The savory, garlicky sauce brings everything together, making this dish a satisfying and delicious choice for any night of the week.
Full Recipe
For the Stir Fry:
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1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
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4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
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3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
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1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
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Crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)
Directions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and patting them dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer or buy pre-made zucchini noodles for convenience. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger if you’re using it.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Zoodles
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the zucchini noodles (zoodles) to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles—they should remain slightly tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and zucchini noodles, tossing everything together until well-coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the stir fry immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. This Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is light, healthy, and packed with flavor.
Nutrients per Serving
Each serving of Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry contains approximately:
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Calories: 240 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Protein: 30g
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Fat: 10g
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Saturated Fat: 2g
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Cholesterol: 70mg
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Sodium: 690mg
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 6g
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Vitamin A: 135 IU
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Vitamin C: 28mg
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Calcium: 50mg
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Iron: 2mg
Why Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is the ultimate healthy and quick dinner. Not only does it come together in just 25 minutes, but it’s also full of fresh ingredients that are both nourishing and delicious. The zucchini noodles (zoodles) make this dish a low-carb alternative to traditional stir fry, allowing you to enjoy a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. The savory garlic sauce adds depth to the dish, and the chicken provides lean protein, making this a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something healthy and fast. The ingredients are simple yet flavorful, and it’s easy to customize based on your preferences. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha, and you can even switch out the chicken for another protein like shrimp, tofu, or beef if desired. The versatility of this recipe ensures that you can enjoy it over and over again, tailoring it to suit your needs.
Customizing the Recipe
One of the great things about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. If you’re looking to increase the vegetable content, you can add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the stir fry. If you prefer a spicier dish, simply add more sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. For those following a gluten-free diet, tamari is a perfect substitute for soy sauce, and you can use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
If you’re looking to make this dish even lighter, you can skip the honey for a more savory flavor. You can also try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to give the dish a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
While Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is delicious on its own, it pairs well with several sides to make it even more filling. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and crunch, or you can serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. If you want to add more texture, topping the stir fry with chopped peanuts or cashews adds a delightful crunch.
For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless, and you can adapt the sides to fit your dietary preferences.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry
Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to use a skillet over medium heat to avoid making the zucchini noodles too soggy. Add a splash of soy sauce or water to refresh the sauce as you reheat.
If you have leftovers and want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the stir fry. Let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking for a satisfying meal without the hassle. Whether you stick to the original recipe or make your own variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
With its balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce, Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is the ideal choice for a healthy, delicious, and satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.