Chicken Alfredo Zoodles is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s ideal for those following a keto diet. Made with zucchini noodles and a creamy alfredo sauce, this low-carb, high-fat meal is full of flavor and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into the ingredients and benefits of this delightful keto-friendly dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized zucchinis
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zoodles:
- Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles from the two medium-sized zucchinis.
- Set aside the zoodles in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Rinse the zoodles under cold water to remove the salt and pat them dry using paper towels. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
- After resting, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- Using the same skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, for about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue cooking until it has fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
4. Assemble and Serve:
- Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet with the alfredo sauce and toss them gently to coat them in the sauce.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the zoodles are tender but still retain a slight crunch.
- Stir in the sliced chicken breasts to combine them with the zoodles and sauce.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Benefits within a Keto Diet:
Chicken Alfredo Zoodles offer a high number of benefits when following a keto diet. It is a low-carb dish that replaces traditional pasta with zucchini noodles, making it an excellent option for people looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. By swapping regular noodles for zoodles, you can significantly lower your carb count while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
The dish is also high in healthy fats, which are essential for those following a keto diet. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese in the alfredo sauce provide a rich source of fats that help keep you satiated and provide steady energy throughout the day.
Furthermore, Chicken Alfredo Zoodles are packed with protein from the chicken breasts. Protein is important for maintaining lean muscle mass while on a keto diet and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied between meals.
In addition to its macronutrient profile, this dish is also rich in vitamins and minerals. Zucchini is a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. It promotes hydration and aids in digestion while providing a satisfying pasta-like texture. Garlic adds a delicious flavor while also offering potential immune-boosting properties.
Overall, Chicken Alfredo Zoodles is a nutrient-dense, flavorful meal that fits perfectly within a keto lifestyle. It’s a delicious way to satisfy your cravings for pasta while keeping your carb intake in check and providing essential nutrients for your body’s needs.
“Try this dish today and enjoy a hearty and comforting meal that aligns with your keto goals!”