Recipe Overview
A fresh, light, and nutrient-dense low-carb healthy dinner featuring spiralized zucchini noodles and tender grilled chicken coated with homemade pesto. Ideal for those following low-carb diets or anyone wanting a flavorful and easy dinner option.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Base
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Veggies & Protein
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Supplements & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup homemade basil pesto (fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, olive oil)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Professional Chef-Level Instructions
Prep Work
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Grill or pan-sear chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Remove and let rest.
- In the same pan, lightly sauté cherry tomatoes until softened. Remove from heat.
Cooking
- Toss zucchini noodles with pesto and sautéed tomatoes just before serving to keep noodles crisp.
- Slice chicken and serve over zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh basil.
Detailed Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 320 | — |
| Protein | 45g | — |
| Net Carbs | 8g | — |
| Total Fat | 14g | — |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | — |
| Fiber | 2.5g | — |
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and use vegan pesto.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts in the pesto.
- Add Greens: Toss in spinach or arugula for more nutrients.
- Low Fat: Reduce olive oil to 1 tsp.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Prevent sogginess: Keep zucchini noodles separate from pesto until just before serving.
- Make Ahead: Cook chicken ahead and store separately for quick assembly.
- Fresh Pesto: Use fresh basil and good-quality olive oil for best flavor.
- Meal Prep: Store components separately in airtight containers.
How to Serve
- Hot: Serve immediately for crisp, fresh noodles.
- Meal Prep: Pack chicken and noodles separately for lunch or dinner.
- Athlete Fuel: Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or mixed greens.
How to Store
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended as zucchini noodles lose texture.
Similar Recipes
- Garlic Butter Shrimp & Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
- Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad
- Spaghetti Squash Bolognese
Enjoy this satisfying, simple dinner for all your low carb, nutrient-focused meal prep needs!
