Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles
Try this Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles recipe.
Try this Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles recipe.
- salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder divided
- 1/3 upwater
- 2 teaspoons dried basil divided
- 1/2 upwhole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano divided
- 2 organic chicken breast about 1 1/2-2 pounds total, halved
- 1 pound organic zucchini cut into long thin strips with a vegetable peeler
- 2 15- oz can diced tomatoes i like muir glen organic no salt added diced tomatoes
- 1/2 upshredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 upshredded parmesan cheese
- Carbohydrate 1.55344999948456 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.919570000279835 g
- Fiber 0.494349990502327 g
- Protein 0.340494999912 g
- Saturated Fat 0.132535000028682 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (117g)
- Sodium 18.9950182290539 mg
- Sugar 1.05910000898223 g
- Trans Fat 0.0384352499962786 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, dried oregano and garlic powder. Salt and pepper chicken on both sides and dredge the chicken in the flour mixture coating each side.
- Heat oil in large oven proof skillet on medium-high heat. Brown chicken breast on each side, 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add zucchini strips and ½ cup water to the skillet. Cover with a lid to steam for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Remove zucchini and set aside. Drain excess water if needed.
- Add diced tomatoes, remaining seasonings and chicken to the skillet and mix to combine.
- Add 2 tablespoons mozzarella and 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese to each chicken breast.
- Stick under a broiler until the cheese has melted and is nicely browned.
- Place zucchini on a plate and top with chicken and tomato sauce.
A Light and Healthy Twist on a Classic: Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. But I’m always looking for ways to streamline my weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. That’s where this Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles recipe comes in. It’s a lighter, healthier take on a classic comfort food, perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. I love using zucchini noodles as a replacement for traditional pasta. They’re low-carb, packed with vitamins, and add a delightful freshness to the dish. The chicken remains juicy and tender, perfectly coated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. The melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses provide that satisfying, cheesy goodness that we all crave in a Chicken Parmesan. It's a win-win situation: a delicious, healthier meal that is also quick and easy to prepare. This recipe has become a staple in our house, and I know it will become one of your favorites too. The combination of the savory chicken, the subtly sweet zucchini, and the tangy tomato sauce creates a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and exciting.
One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Add some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or use different types of cheese, like provolone or fontina. You can even add other vegetables to the zucchini noodles, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added nutrients and flavor. The possibilities are endless! And the best part? It’s a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup time – a major bonus for busy weeknights. I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day, making it an even more efficient meal prep option.
Beyond its practical advantages, this Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles offers a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Knowing that I’ve created a healthy and delicious meal for my family from scratch fills me with a sense of pride. It’s a small act of self-care, a moment of mindful cooking that allows me to connect with my family over a shared meal. And let's be honest, the aroma of this dish cooking is pure magic, filling the house with a comforting and inviting scent. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can find moments of calm and joy in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal together. So, give this recipe a try. I’m confident that it will become a new favorite in your kitchen, too. It’s a perfect balance of healthy and delicious, making it a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy again and again.
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe is not just about the delicious food; it’s about the experience. The process of preparing this dish is a therapeutic one. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the satisfying sizzle of chicken in the pan, the bubbling of the sauce – these are all small moments of mindfulness that can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It’s a chance to disconnect from the demands of the day and focus on the simple pleasure of creating something delicious. And of course, sharing the meal with loved ones makes the experience even more meaningful. It’s a reminder that even the busiest schedules can accommodate time for nourishing meals and precious family moments.
Tips and Variations:
• For an even lighter meal, you can use a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese. • If you don't have an oven-proof skillet, you can brown the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish to bake with the cheese. • Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. • Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile. • Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. • To make this recipe ahead of time, prepare the zucchini noodles and chicken separately. Then, combine everything just before serving and broil as directed.
This simple, yet satisfying recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of nourishing food to nourish our bodies and our souls. It’s a recipe for a balanced life, where healthy eating and family time go hand in hand. Enjoy!
