Chicken Zucchini Pasta

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Chicken Zucchini Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and full of flavor. Tender pieces of chicken are tossed with al dente pasta and ribbons of fresh zucchini, all brought together with a subtle garlic and olive oil sauce. Each bite is comforting yet fresh, showcasing the balance of hearty protein with crisp vegetables.

This recipe celebrates simplicity without sacrificing taste. With just a handful of pantry staples and seasonal produce, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for anyone who loves pasta but wants to sneak in more greens effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Zucchini Pasta

You’ll love this dish because it’s healthy without feeling like diet food. The zucchini adds moisture and a slight crunch that complements the tender chicken and pasta beautifully. It’s versatile enough to adapt with whole wheat pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Not to mention, it’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients — perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

What Kind of Zucchini Should I Use?

For this recipe, any fresh zucchini from your local market or grocery store works great. Choose medium-sized zucchini that are firm, bright green, and free of blemishes for the best texture and flavor. If you find yellow zucchini, feel free to mix them in for a splash of color and a slightly sweeter taste. Smaller zucchini tend to be more tender, making them ideal for thin ribbons or quick sautés in pasta dishes like this one.

Ingredients for the Chicken Zucchini Pasta

Pasta is the foundation of this dish, giving it body and heartiness. Opt for spaghetti, linguine, or even penne depending on what you have on hand. Chicken breast provides lean protein and cooks quickly, staying tender in the light sauce. Zucchini is the star vegetable here, adding a fresh, crisp element that lightens the entire meal. Olive oil forms the silky base of the sauce while garlic infuses each bite with rich aroma and flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end brings the whole dish together with a salty, nutty finish.

How To Make the Chicken Zucchini Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breast slices with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the garlic. Let it sizzle for about 30 seconds before adding the zucchini ribbons. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and toss everything together over medium heat for a minute. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with cracked black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Zucchini Pasta

This Chicken Zucchini Pasta serves about 4 people generously, making it perfect for family dinner or meal prep. Serve it hot straight from the skillet for the best experience, with the zucchini still bright and just crisp. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out.

What to Serve With Chicken Zucchini Pasta?

Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic side that complements the pasta beautifully, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Mixed Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and adds even more vegetables to your meal.

Roasted Vegetables

For an even heartier spread, serve with a tray of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

Caprese Salad

Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze pair wonderfully with the light flavors of the pasta.

Grilled Asparagus

The slightly smoky flavor of grilled asparagus is a lovely, healthy addition to the table.

Lemon Wedges

A few wedges of lemon on the side let diners add a bright, zesty touch if desired.

White Wine

If you’d like a drink pairing, a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish perfectly.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Chicken Zucchini Pasta, here are more flavorful pasta recipes to try next:

• Creamy Cajun Linguine for a spicy, creamy twist.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli when you crave something cheesy and hearty.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a comforting, indulgent dinner.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti when you’re in the mood for a baked classic.
• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken for another chicken and pasta favorite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add herbs or a squeeze of lemon? Did you swap in whole wheat pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated pasta and dinner ideas on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to for quick, delicious meals!

Conclusion

Chicken Zucchini Pasta is a bright, satisfying dish that shows just how delicious simple ingredients can be. With its perfect balance of pasta, chicken, and vegetables, it’s bound to become a weeknight staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh, flavorful dinner tonight!

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