Delicious Recipe Chicken Zucchini Pasta for a Healthy Dinner
If you're on the hunt for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this recipe for chicken zucchini pasta. This dish combines lea……
If you're on the hunt for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this recipe for chicken zucchini pasta. This dish combines lean protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains to create a balanced meal that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and energized.
### Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
2. **Cook the Pasta**: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. **Prepare the Zucchini**: Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles (zoodles). If you don't have a spiralizer, you can also cut the zucchini into thin strips.
4. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. **Combine Ingredients**: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips. Add the chicken, zucchini noodles, and cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. **Season and Serve**: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over the top. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
### Why This Recipe Chicken Zucchini Pasta is a Must-Try
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Zucchini is low in calories but high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which helps with digestion. Whole wheat pasta adds complex carbohydrates to keep you energized, and the cherry tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants.
The combination of these ingredients makes this recipe chicken zucchini pasta a balanced meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. It's also versatile; you can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu, or add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for even more flavor and nutrition.
### Tips for Perfecting Your Recipe Chicken Zucchini Pasta
- **Don't Overcook the Zucchini**: Zucchini cooks very quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. You want it to be tender but still have a bit of a bite.
- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese can make a big difference in the flavor of this dish. If possible, use fresh instead of dried or pre-grated.
- **Adjust Seasonings**: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.
This recipe for chicken zucchini pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. It's quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!