Quick and Delicious: How to Make Chicken Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Introduction

Looking for a light, healthy, and delicious dinner that’s both gluten-free and low-carb? This Chicken Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes recipe is just what you need! 🌿🍅 Tender chicken, fresh zucchini noodles, and juicy cherry tomatoes come together in a vibrant basil pesto, making this dish a quick and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy nights or a nutritious lunch option!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes

This dish offers a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, with zoodles (zucchini noodles) replacing the carbs. Paired with lean chicken and tossed in a fresh, homemade basil pesto, this meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition. It’s ideal for anyone following a gluten-free or keto diet, and it can be on your table in just 25 minutes!

Top Reasons to Try This Recipe:

  • Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Perfect for those avoiding traditional pasta.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in 25 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Fresh Flavors: Basil pesto and cherry tomatoes add brightness and a burst of flavor.
  • Nutritious & Delicious: A balanced meal with lean protein and fresh veggies.

Ingredients List for Chicken Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients for chicken pesto zoodles with cherry tomatoes, including chicken, zucchini noodles, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and garlic

  • 1 lb chicken tenders, sliced 🐔
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles 🥒
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
  • ½ cup basil pesto 🌿
  • 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish 🌿

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Lemon juice to enhance the pesto’s brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chicken tenders cooking in a skillet, golden brown and seasoned
  • Cook the Chicken
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
      • Pro Tip: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before cooking.
  • Sauté the Garlic and Zoodles
    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
      • Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the zoodles—they should be tender but still slightly firm to avoid becoming mushy.
Pesto and cherry tomatoes being tossed into the skillet with zoodles
  • Add the Pesto and Tomatoes
    • Stir in the basil pesto and halved cherry tomatoes, tossing to combine with the zoodles. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together.
      • Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the pesto.
Chicken pesto zoodles served on a plate, garnished with fresh basil.
  • Serve
    • Serve the chicken pesto zoodles hot, garnished with fresh basil. For a more filling meal, pair with a side salad or gluten-free garlic bread.
      • Pro Tip: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a cheesy, flavorful finish!

Nutritional Benefits Breakdown

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g

Why This Recipe Is Nutritious

This recipe is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a healthy, low-carb meal that’s still full of flavor. Zucchini noodles provide a light, nutrient-dense alternative to pasta, while the basil pesto offers healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. The lean chicken delivers high-quality protein, making this dish a wholesome and satisfying option for gluten-free and keto diets.

Conclusion

This Chicken Pesto Zoodles with Cherry Tomatoes is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that’s easy to make and low in carbs. 🌟 Try it out tonight, and let us know how you customize your zoodles! Don’t forget to share your creations using #HealthyZoodleDinners.