Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bowl: A Low-Carb Delight

Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bowl: A Low-Carb Delight

Craving the flavors of Chicken Parmesan but looking for something lighter and healthier? Our Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bowl is a fantastic low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on the taste. Swapping out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles, also known as ‘zoodles’, this delightful dish combines tender chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese in a guilt-free bowl bound to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 large zucchinis
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free option, use almond flour)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for a gluten-free option, use crushed pork rinds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your zoodles. Trim the ends of the zucchinis and use a spiralizer to create noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a vegetable peeler can also be used to create thin strips. Once spiralized, place the zoodles on paper towels to drain excess moisture.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
3. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
5. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking sheet and top each breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. While the chicken is baking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat and sauté the zoodles for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid overcooking to maintain a pasta-like texture.
10. Divide the warm zoodles among bowls, place a baked chicken breast on top of each, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness if desired.

Notes

• If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer to create zucchini strips that resemble noodles.
• For a crispier chicken coating, you can add Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Feel free to add more vegetables to the zoodle mixture, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.

Your Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bowl is not only delightful but also aligns with your low-carb diet plans. Enjoy the savory taste of this Italian classic with a healthy twist!