low carbohydrate chicken recipe
- The Best low carbohydrate chicken recipe
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
The Best low carbohydrate chicken recipe
I’ve been making this low-carb chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have time to fuss over complicated meals. My kids absolutely love it—even the picky ones—which is always a win in my book. The best part? It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, so I feel good about serving it to my family without worrying about blood sugar spikes or empty carbs.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it over zucchini noodles for a lighter meal, toss it with cauliflower rice, or even eat it straight out of the pan with a side of roasted veggies. It’s also great for meal prep because it reheats beautifully, so I’ll often make a big batch on Sunday and have lunches ready for the week. The ingredients are basic, but the flavor is anything but boring. Plus, it’s a great way to get more vegetables into my kids’ diets without them even realizing it.
Health-wise, this dish checks all the boxes. Chicken is a lean protein that keeps us full for hours, and the low-carb approach means I’m not dealing with that post-meal crash. It’s also a great option if you’re watching your carb intake but still want something satisfying. Whether it’s a quick dinner after soccer practice or a lazy weekend lunch, this recipe has become a staple in our house because it’s easy, delicious, and actually good for you.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
A delicious low-carb chicken dish featuring tender garlic butter chicken served over zucchini noodles. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this meal is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
👨🍳Directions
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1 Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
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2 Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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3 In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
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4 Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the garlic butter sauce. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
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5 While the chicken is simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender (do not overcook).
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6 Divide the zucchini noodles among four plates. Top each serving with a chicken breast and drizzle with the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spiralizer or julienne peeler
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles Works
This low-carb chicken recipe is a no-brainer for any meal, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a big family gathering. It’s simple, flavorful, and keeps everyone happy without the carb overload, so you can focus on enjoying time with your people instead of stressing over complicated dishes. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes I always keep in my back pocket because it just works.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini Noodles
1. Can I use any type of chicken for this low-carb recipe?
Yes, you can use any cut of chicken, such as breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings. However, cooking times may vary depending on the cut. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook faster, while bone-in thighs or drumsticks may require more time. Adjust the cooking duration accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
2. What low-carb vegetables can I pair with this chicken recipe?
Great low-carb vegetable options include broccoli, zucchini, cauliflower, spinach, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers. You can roast, sauté, or steam them as a side dish. Avoid starchy vegetables like potatoes, corn, or peas, as they are higher in carbohydrates.
3. Can I meal prep this low-carb chicken recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. Pair with fresh or prepped low-carb vegetables for a complete meal.
4. How can I add more flavor to the chicken without adding carbs?
You can enhance the flavor without adding carbs by using herbs, spices, and low-carb sauces. Try seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, cumin, or Italian herbs. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, or vinegar with herbs. Low-carb sauces like sugar-free BBQ, pesto, or hot sauce can also add variety.
5. Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this low-carb chicken recipe is keto-friendly as long as you avoid high-carb ingredients like breading, sugary sauces, or starchy sides. Stick to healthy fats (e.g., olive oil, butter, or avocado) and low-carb vegetables to keep it within keto macros. Always check the labels of sauces or seasonings to ensure they are sugar-free.
