If your weeknight dinner groove has been feeling a little too predictable, this Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry is here to break you out of the rut. Tender strips of chicken breast are seasoned and stir-fried to a golden finish, then tossed with crunchy red bell pepper and crisp carrots, all bathed in a garlicky, slightly sweet sauce that practically begs for a second helping. When you add spiralized zucchini noodles, you get that satisfying noodle-like texture without the heavy carbs—perfect for anyone looking to keep dinner light yet utterly delicious. Every forkful delivers a harmonious blend of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of heat from red pepper flakes. Even if you’re a kitchen novice, this beginner-friendly recipe guides you smoothly through each step, from seasoning the poultry to mastering the art of a quick stir-fry.
Beyond being a breeze to prepare, this dish is a celebration of vibrant color and bold flavor. In just 15 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a gorgeous, low-carb meal that shines in any lunch or dinner lineup. The oil, garlic, and ginger form a fragrant flavor base, balanced by honey and rice vinegar for a touch of sweetness and tang. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onions at the end not only adds textural contrast but also makes for a picture-perfect finishing touch. With only about 350 calories per serving and zero resting time needed, this is your ticket to a satisfying meal that fuels your body without weighing you down. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, grab that spiralizer, and get ready for a stir-fry that feels indulgent while staying surprisingly healthy.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC CHICKEN ZUCCHINI NOODLES STIR FRY
Before diving into the wok, let’s talk about the stars of this show. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the juicy chicken strips to the crisp spiralized zucchini, these ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both balanced and exciting.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and mild, these strips soak up the garlicky sauce beautifully and provide a hearty protein boost.
- Zucchini noodles: A fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, they add a tender crunch and vibrant color while keeping the dish light.
- Olive oil: Used in three stages, it ensures nothing sticks, helps develop that golden sear on the chicken, and provides a silky sheen to the veggies.
- Garlic: Minced and sautéed until fragrant, garlic infuses every bite with its warm, aromatic essence.
- Red bell pepper: Delivers a pop of sweetness and a satisfying snap, balancing out the savory chicken.
- Carrots: Julienned for quick cooking, they bring a subtle sweetness and bright orange hue.
- Low sodium soy sauce: Offers a savory backbone without overpowering the dish, giving depth and umami.
- Honey: A touch of natural sweetness that helps the sauce caramelize slightly, creating a glossy finish.
- Rice vinegar: Provides a mild tang that lifts the other flavors and prevents the stir fry from feeling too heavy.
- Grated ginger: Brings a gentle heat and a refreshing zing that complements the garlic.
- Red pepper flakes: Add a hint of spice—adjust to suit your heat preference.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning essentials that highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient.
- Green onions: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, oniony crunch and a burst of color.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted as a garnish, they lend a nutty flavor and a final decorative touch.
HOW TO MAKE GARLIC CHICKEN ZUCCHINI NOODLES STIR FRY
Ready to turn those vibrant ingredients into a sizzling stir fry masterpiece? This recipe is all about swift moves and bold seasonings, transforming simple staples into a nutritious, low-carb dinner in no time.
1. Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5–7 minutes, tossing occasionally until it’s fully cooked through and lightly golden. Use a spatula to move the pieces around so they sear evenly. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce heat to medium, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma but doesn’t brown.
3. Add the sliced red bell pepper and julienned carrots to the pan. Stir-fry these for 3–4 minutes, or until they begin to soften yet still retain a satisfying crunch.
4. While the veggies cook, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until the honey dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything to coat evenly. Continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to each ingredient.
6. In another pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring gently until they’re tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
7. Transfer the zucchini noodles to the pan with chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated in that flavorful sauce.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with the chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC CHICKEN ZUCCHINI NOODLES STIR FRY
When it comes to serving this colorful stir fry, there are so many delightful ways to elevate the experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply plating up a quick solo dinner, these suggestions will help you present the dish beautifully and enhance its flavors even further.
- Serve on a warm platter and top with extra sesame seeds and thin slices of fresh chili for a restaurant-quality look that’s bound to impress.
- Offer a side of steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice to soak up every last drop of the garlicky sauce—perfect for guests who want a more filling meal.
- Plate individual portions in small bowls, garnish with lime wedges and a handful of chopped cilantro for a bright, zesty twist that cuts through the richness.
- Pair with a chilled light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp lager to complement the tangy-sweet flavors and cleanse the palate between bites.
HOW TO STORE GARLIC CHICKEN ZUCCHINI NOODLES STIR FRY
Keeping your stir fry tasting fresh is all about quick cooling and airtight storage. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just want to have leftovers on standby, follow these guidelines to preserve texture and flavor.
- Store in airtight containers: After allowing the dish to cool to room temperature, divide it into individual portions and seal in BPA-free containers. This helps maintain freshness and prevents moisture loss.
- Refrigerate promptly: Place the sealed containers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Proper chilling slows bacterial growth and keeps the veggies crisp.
- Reheat gently: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to revive the sauce’s consistency and prevent the zucchini from drying out.
- Freeze for long-term storage: For extended shelf life (up to one month), transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.
CONCLUSION
This Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry has everything you need for a satisfying weeknight meal: effortless prep, vibrant textures, and a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. From lean protein to crisp vegetables, each bite delivers a burst of freshness that feels anything but ordinary. With preparation and cooking times of just 15 and 20 minutes respectively, you’ll have dinner on the table fast—so there’s more time for relaxing and enjoying good company. Beginner cooks will appreciate the straightforward instructions, while experienced chefs can play with ingredient swaps or extra veggies to make it their own. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or save it digitally for nights when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing meal. You can also find an FAQ below to troubleshoot any questions or get more tips on mastering the perfect stir fry.
Don’t be shy—if you try this recipe, drop a comment with your results or any tweaks you made. If questions pop up while you’re cooking, I’d love to help you troubleshoot. Leave feedback on how you served it, substitutions you’ve tried, or even favorite garnishes you’ve paired with it. Your kitchen adventures inspire everyone here, and I’m always thrilled to hear your stories. Happy cooking!
Garlic Chicken Zucchini Noodles Stir Fry
Description
Savor the vibrant flavors of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and zucchini noodles in this quick stir fry. Infused with garlic and a hint of sweetness, it's a meal that delights your taste buds while keeping it light.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through and lightly golden. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
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In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add the red bell pepper and carrots to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
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Meanwhile, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
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Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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In another pan, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until they are tender but still slightly firm.
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Combine the zucchini noodles with the chicken and vegetable stir-fry, tossing everything together until well mixed and the noodles are coated with the sauce.
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Remove from heat and garnish the dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Note
- Using a spiralizer makes it easy to create zucchini noodles, which are a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust the level of spice by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
