Introduction
Are you looking for a healthy, low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles might just be your new favorite dish! This recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh zucchini noodles, and a savory garlic-infused sauce that makes every bite absolutely irresistible.
Not only is this dish quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, making it a wholesome meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet, or just want a lighter alternative to pasta, these zoodles with garlic chicken are perfect for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles, from ingredients and cooking tips to frequently asked questions and serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles
✅ Low in Carbs & High in Nutrients – A great alternative to traditional pasta without sacrificing taste.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
✅ Loaded with Flavor – The combination of garlic, soy sauce, hoisin, and sriracha gives this dish an irresistible taste.
✅ Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap veggies, or use different proteins to make it your own.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Make extra and store for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory garlic chicken zoodle dish:
For the Zoodles:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- A pinch of salt
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 6 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
- Cut off the ends of the zucchinis and use a spiralizer to create zoodles.
- Place them in a strainer over a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, toss, and let them sweat for 5 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with oyster sauce, rice wine (or chicken broth), and black pepper.
- Let marinate for at least 10 minutes while preparing the sauce and veggies.
3. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sriracha sauce, sugar, and chicken broth.
- Set aside for later use.
4. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp of cooking oil in a large skillet over high heat.
- Add marinated chicken and stir-fry until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add garlic and onion, stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add green onions and bell peppers, stir-fry for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together.
- Add the zoodles and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until zoodles are slightly tender but still crisp.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
- Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles
- Don’t Overcook the Zoodles: Zucchini noodles release a lot of water when overcooked. Cook them briefly to keep them firm and slightly crunchy.
- Adjust the Heat Level: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes if you love spice.
- Use a Good Spiralizer: A high-quality spiralizer will give you even, long zoodles that mimic pasta beautifully.
- Marinate the Chicken for More Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes or more.
- Swap Proteins: Try shrimp, beef, or tofu as alternatives to chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything except the zoodles in advance. Store separately and reheat before serving.
2. How do I keep the zucchini noodles from getting watery?
Salt the zoodles and let them sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini noodles?
Yes, but thaw them first and squeeze out any extra water before cooking.
4. What can I serve with Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles?
Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal.
5. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Conclusion
Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles are the ultimate low-carb, high-flavor dish that’s perfect for any meal. With tender chicken, crisp-tender zoodles, and a garlicky, umami-packed sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also versatile, meal-prep friendly, and customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy alternative to pasta, this dish has got you covered.
Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal packed with flavor!