Zoodles with Lemon Garlic Chicken

Oodles of zoodles.

Zoodles. They are a bit of a food craze currently. The name is a play on the words “zucchini noodles”. Yes, they are vegetable noodles so super healthy. They’ve become so incredibly popular as a carb-free way to eat pasta, not to mention are super quick to cook!

Of course in my true investigative fashion, I had to give zoodles a go. The first thing I have to say is that if you really love pasta, you’re not going to love this substitute as much. Don’t get fooled that they are a perfect substitute to pasta. They are, after all, still a vegetable and taste just like… well, a vegetable!

But if you’re want to cut down carbs, this is perfect. It means you can eat something that resembles pasta and still remain guilt-free.

I made this and I have to admit. My two girls were not terribly keen on the zoodles. To them, it was a wolf in sheep’s clothing. It wasn’t a noodle. It was still zucchini but shaped like a noodle. In order to get the kids to eat them, I had to mix them up half and half with traditional spaghetti. Only then did the girls eat them all up.

How do you make zoodles?

By using a gadget called a spiraliser. When you use it, the zoodles are one long strand because they keep growing in length as you turn the zucchini around. The great thing is that you can use a spiraliser for other vegetables like onions, carrots and cucumbers. Actually, grab a vegetable and give it a go! Adding spiralised veggies into a salad or as a side dish will turn the humble veggie into something a little more exciting.

Zoodles... Zucchini Noodles. There are many spiralisers available on the market. I bought this one from Kmart for $15. Refer to manufacturers instructions on how to make the best zoodles.
Zoodles… Zucchini Noodles. There are many spiralisers available on the market. I bought this one from Kmart for $15. Refer to manufacturers instructions on how to make the best zoodles.

Want another delicious recipe?

If you like this recipe, you’ll also love others available here. From pastas to risottos, cookies to desserts, and bliss balls to gluten-free options with everything in between. There is truly something here for everyone. I have developed this website to provide family-friendly recipes where I maximise both fresh produce while minimising cost.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Zoodles - this is a carb-free meal that is quick and simple to make.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles

This is a carb-free meal that is quick and simple to make. It's also super healthy! The kids might not be a fan of this noodle substitute but if you're looking to eat healthier, this is a recipe you'll love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
 

  • 6 zucchini
  • 2 g chicken breasts, cut into 2cm cubes, about 15/ 425 gr
  • 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 lemon, juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • grated parmesan cheese, optional
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions
 

  • Using a spiraliser, create zucchini spaghetti (always read the directions as they vary by brand). If you don't have a spiraliser use a regular vegetable peeler to vertically peel long, thin strips of the zucchini. This will form more of a wider "noodle" from the zucchini, like fettuccini.
  • Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add zucchini noodles and cook for about 90 seconds, until zucchini noodles are tender but still retain some crunch. Super important - don't overcook!
  • Transfer into a colander and let the noodles rest for about 3 minutes so that they can release all of the moisture.
  • Wipe the pan and heat one tablespoon of olive oil, when sizzling add chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
  • Add tomatoes and parsley, lower to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tomatoes start to break down and release some of their juice.
  • In a small bowl combine lemon juice, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the lemon juice mixture and stir until combined. Cook for 1 minute.
  • Plate up the zoodles then add the chicken mixture on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (optional). Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure you don't overcook the zoodles as the really do cook quickly.
  • I bought my spiraliser from Kmart but have seen them also in Aldi and Target.
 

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