Table of Contents: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles is your perfect weeknight dinner solution. Made in one pan and packed with protein, it’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and bursting with garlicky goodness.
Zucchini noodles—affectionately called zoodles—are a smart alternative to traditional pasta, offering a lighter, gluten-free twist that pairs wonderfully with buttery, tender chicken bites. This dish is ideal for busy folks wanting something fast, wholesome, and restaurant-worthy without the takeout bill.
Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, trying to get more vegetables in your meals, or simply need a delicious way to use that chicken in your fridge, this dish has you covered.
Check out this comforting Easy Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe if you’re also craving warm, hearty classics.
Introduction to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This garlic butter chicken bites recipe is everything we love in a dinner:
- One-pan convenience
- Minimal ingredients
- Rich, bold flavor
It takes just 25 minutes to cook, making it perfect for weeknights. The buttery garlic sauce coats the chicken with savory richness while the zucchini noodles soak up all that goodness without the heaviness of traditional pasta.
Even picky eaters love this one. It’s kid-friendly, husband-approved, and diet-flexible.
Benefits of Choosing Zucchini Noodles Over Traditional Pasta
Why skip the spaghetti? Here’s what makes zoodles a smarter base:
| Feature | Zucchini Noodles | Regular Pasta |
|---|---|---|
| Calories (per cup) | 20–30 | 200+ |
| Carbs (per cup) | 4–6g | 40–45g |
| Gluten-Free | ✅ | ❌ |
| Nutrient Density | High (vitamin C, K, potassium) | Lower |
Zoodles not only cut calories but also add vitamins and hydration to your plate. They’re perfect for gluten-free, paleo, and keto lifestyles.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles – Healthy Low-Carb Dinner
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with light zucchini noodles for a quick, delicious low-carb dinner.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 4–5 medium zucchini, rinsed and spiralized (or a pack of store-bought Zucchini Noodles)
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (we used Sriracha)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon minced parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Crushed red chili pepper flakes, optional
- Slices of lemon, for garnish
- For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (we used Sriracha) or 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken chunks with olive oil, hot sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, thyme, and parsley. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add spiralized zucchini noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Return chicken to the skillet, toss everything together, and cook for another minute to warm through.
- Serve with lemon slices and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, use a cast iron skillet to sear the chicken bites.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: chicken, zucchini noodles, garlic butter, low carb, quick dinner
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Ingredients & Kitchen Tools You’ll Need: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Core Ingredients for the Chicken and Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need for the best garlic butter chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into small chunks)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: Red chili flakes or lemon juice
Pro tip: Marinate your chicken in garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking.
What You Need for Perfect Zucchini Noodles
- 3 medium zucchinis (spiralized)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt to draw out excess water
- Optional: Grated parmesan, lemon zest
Tools:
- Spiralizer or julienne peeler
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or spatula
Don’t miss our Easy Arroz con Leche Recipe if you’re also craving a sweet creamy finish after dinner.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Preparing and Seasoning the Chicken Bites
- Prep chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Cook chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
- Sauté: Add chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally for even browning.
- Add garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and remaining butter. Cook until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
Spiralizing and Cooking the Zucchini Noodles
- Spiralize your zucchinis using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler.
- Drain water: Sprinkle with salt and let sit in a colander for 10 minutes. Pat dry.
- Quick sauté: In the same pan, toss in the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes in the garlic butter.
Looking for inspiration? Try Delicious Coffee Loophole Recipe for a mid-morning energy boost.
Flavor Boosting Tips for Garlic Butter Perfection
Garlic Butter Add-Ins That Elevate the Flavor
Want extra kick in your sauce? Add any of these to the pan:
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan
- Fresh thyme or parsley
- A pinch of chili flakes for heat
Cooking Techniques That Keep Chicken Juicy
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – use a large skillet
- Cook in batches if needed
- Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before mixing with zoodles
- Use a meat thermometer (internal temp: 165°F)
How to Make Zucchini Noodles Taste Better
Seasoning and Sautéing Tricks for Zoodles
- Dry them well before cooking
- Toss with garlic butter, lemon zest, and herbs
- Avoid overcooking – 2 to 3 minutes max
- Finish with grated parmesan or crushed nuts
Sauce Pairings That Enhance Zucchini Flavor
- Creamy pesto
- Spicy marinara
- Balsamic glaze
- Garlic lemon aioli
Nutrition, Calories, and Health Benefits: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Nutritional Breakdown of This Low-Carb Meal
| Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280–350 kcal |
| Protein | 30–35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Net Carbs | 6–8g |
| Fiber | 2–3g |
Why Garlic, Chicken, and Zucchini Make a Power Trio
- Garlic: Antioxidant, heart-healthy
- Chicken: Lean protein source
- Zucchini: Hydrating, low-calorie, high in potassium
Customization Options & Substitutes
Keto, Paleo, and Dairy-Free Variations
- Keto: Add extra butter and parmesan
- Paleo: Use ghee instead of butter
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil only, skip cheese
Vegetarian and Vegan Swaps for Chicken
- Tofu bites
- Chickpeas sautéed with garlic
- Cauliflower florets pan-roasted in garlic oil
Serving Ideas and Meal Prep Tips: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
Side Dishes and Garnish Ideas That Pair Well
- Garlic bread (for carb-eaters)
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted cherry tomatoes or mushrooms
How to Store, Reheat, and Use Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3 days
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or butter
- Repurpose: Add leftovers to lettuce wraps or grain bowls
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Zoodles and Chicken
Overcooking Chicken or Noodles
- Chicken dries out fast—don’t go beyond 8 minutes
- Zoodles should be just warmed, not limp
Sauce Separation and Texture Issues
- Add garlic after browning chicken
- Don’t cook zoodles in a watery pan—always drain first
People Also Ask: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
How to make zucchini noodles taste better?
Dry thoroughly before cooking, use garlic butter, and finish with lemon zest or parmesan. They absorb flavor like a sponge.
What are 3 advantages of having zucchini noodles over regular pasta?
They’re lower in carbs and calories, gluten-free, and rich in vitamins and water content for hydration.
When making zucchini noodles do you leave the skin on?
Yes! The skin adds nutrients, texture, and helps the noodles hold shape.
Does zucchini go with chicken?
Absolutely. Zucchini’s mild flavor soaks up garlic butter and pairs perfectly with juicy chicken bites.
Conclusion: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Zucchini Noodles is the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, savory, satisfying, and adaptable for many diets. Whether you’re watching carbs, craving something fast, or just want to impress your family without sweating in the kitchen—this one-pan wonder delivers.
Discover great ideas like Cheesy Mashed Potatoes next time you want a starchy, comforting side.