If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish without the carbs, this Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo is the perfect solution. This dish replaces traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” and pairs them with tender, seasoned chicken and a luscious, homemade Alfredo sauce.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor—but light enough for a low-carb lifestyle. Whether you’re following keto, gluten-free, or just looking to eat more veggies, this dinner is satisfying, simple, and delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper
For the Zoodles:
- 3 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Garnish:
- Extra parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Cracked black pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice into strips.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese and continue stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Add salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg to taste. Keep the sauce warm on low heat.
Step 3: Cook the Zoodles
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add spiralized zucchini and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Do not overcook or they’ll become watery.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked zoodles to the Alfredo sauce and gently toss to coat. Add in the sliced chicken and stir everything together until heated through.
Step 5: Serve
- Divide between plates, top with more parmesan and parsley, and serve hot.
Variation:
- Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops.
- Add Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Cheese Boost: Mix in shredded mozzarella or asiago for extra cheesiness.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and vegan parmesan.
COOKING Note:
Zucchini has high water content. For best results, salt your zoodles lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes before sautéing—then pat dry with paper towels. This prevents watery sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- With garlic bread (for non-low-carb diets)
- With a crisp green salad for a balanced meal
- As a meal prep dish stored in separate containers
- With roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers
Tips:
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking zoodles. Work in batches if needed.
- Add lemon zest or juice for a fresh finish.
- Reheat leftovers gently over low heat to avoid breaking the sauce.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: ~32g
- Carbohydrates: ~7g
- Fat: ~26g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~420mg
Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
❓FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes! Shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works great—just reheat gently in the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but cook the zoodles fresh for best texture.
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
- Yes, but homemade tastes fresher and has fewer additives. Use a high-quality jarred sauce if needed.
Are zoodles freezer-friendly?
- Not really. Zucchini releases a lot of moisture when thawed and may become mushy. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion:
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo is a lighter spin on a classic comfort dish—rich, creamy, and full of flavor without the pasta guilt. It’s a fast and satisfying recipe that fits many diets and still feels indulgent.
Perfect for busy weeknights, healthy meal preps, or dinner guests, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.