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Chicken Zucchini Pasta

Chicken Zucchini Pasta: A Quick & Wholesome Weeknight Delight

Enjoy a quick and wholesome Chicken Zucchini Pasta that's low-carb and packed with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Short Pasta Opt for penne or fusilli as great alternatives.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Feel free to increase if more is needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Brings a rich, satisfying texture to the dish.
For Protein and Veggies
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces; skinless thighs or rotisserie chicken work as substitutes.
  • 1 lb Zucchini About 2 medium; ensure well-drained to avoid excess water.
For Flavoring
  • 2 cloves Garlic Crushed; use the freshest you can find.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Homemade mixes with basil and oregano are ideal.
  • Juice of half Lemon Brightens the dish with acidity.
For Finishing Touches
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; offers necessary saltiness and nuttiness to complete the meal.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley Roughly chopped; substitute with basil for a different flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Toasted; walnuts can be used as an alternative.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Zucchini Pasta
  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Zucchini: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and slice zucchini into half-moons.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Cook chicken 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Sauté the Zucchini: In the same skillet, sauté zucchini for 4-5 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  5. Add Garlic and Flavoring: Stir in crushed garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, then add lemon juice.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to skillet. Add drained pasta, mixing thoroughly and adding reserved pasta water for sauce consistency.
  7. Finish with Cheese and Nuts: Fold in Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and parsley. Adjust seasoning.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta warm, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure zucchini is well-drained to prevent a watery dish. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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