This creamy zucchini noodle chicken alfredo is a yummy twist on a classic dish! It combines tender chicken with zucchini noodles, all covered in a smooth, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a light meal!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good pasta dish? I love how the zucchini noodles soak up all that cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to eat your veggies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This dish shines with spiralized zucchini, which acts as a light noodle substitute. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use summer squash or even carrot noodles for a different flavor.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for their quick cooking time. Feel free to swap for rotisserie chicken or even cooked shrimp if you’re short on time!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. You can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan alternative.
Nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg elevates the flavor. It’s optional, but adds a warm note. If you don’t have any, a pinch of garlic powder can work in a pinch!
How Do I Make Sure the Zucchini Noodles Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking zucchini noodles can be tricky as they can get mushy quickly. The key is to sauté them just until they are slightly tender but still maintain some bite.
- Use a non-stick skillet and heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for just 1-2 minutes.
- Check them frequently; they should look bright and stay firm.
- Avoid overcooking! They can release moisture, which may make your dish watery.
For an extra step, you could even sprinkle a little salt on the noodles and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out moisture before cooking, then pat them dry with a towel.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with a delightful creamy chicken Alfredo that keeps the zucchini noodles light and enjoyable!
Creamy Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes around 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and if you’re using cream cheese, add it now. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if you’re using it), and a little more salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, so it thickens up nicely.
5. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
While the sauce is simmering, spiralize the zucchinis if you haven’t already and lightly sauté them in a separate pan with a splash of olive oil for 1-2 minutes. You want them to be slightly tender yet still firm—don’t overcook!
6. Combine Everything:
Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the creamy Alfredo sauce and gently toss everything together to coat the noodles. Warm through for another minute.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the creamy zucchini noodles, top them with the sliced chicken, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch. Dig in and enjoy your delicious, low-carb Alfredo dish!
This creamy zucchini noodle chicken Alfredo is not just a flavor-packed meal but also a fun and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Pasta Instead of Zucchini Noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer traditional pasta, feel free to substitute the zucchini noodles with your favorite type of pasta. Just cook the pasta according to package instructions and mix it with the sauce as you would with the zucchini noodles. Keep in mind this will change the dish’s carb content.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese? Can I Omit It?
Yes, you can easily omit the cream cheese if you don’t have it on hand! The dish will still turn out creamy with just the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If you want extra creaminess, consider adding a bit more cream or a splash of milk instead.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of heavy cream and omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. Adjust seasonings to taste, and you’ll have a creamy, dairy-free dish!
