One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Bacon Zucchini Noodles

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 large zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. Whisk together Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken in this mixture.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until they start to soften. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a boil.
6. Stir in 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet along with the bacon and zucchini noodles. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
9. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is a wonderful low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes, making it suitable for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. Zucchini noodles (often called “zoodles”) are a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with lean chicken breast and spinach, this meal provides a healthy dose of protein and essential nutrients. The use of fresh ingredients like spinach and tomatoes not only adds flavor but also contributes to a balanced and nutritious meal.

Customization Options:

• Vegetarian: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the chicken and bacon with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with coconut cream or almond milk and nutritional yeast. This substitution will still provide a creamy texture and a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
• Extra Flavor: If you enjoy a bit of spice, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be added at the end for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips:

• Zucchini Noodles: To prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming too watery, it’s important not to overcook them. Simply toss them in the skillet at the end of the cooking process and heat them through. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can sauté the zoodles separately for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the pan.
• Cheese: Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to achieving a smooth and creamy sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can cause the sauce to break or become grainy.
• One-Pan Convenience: This dish is designed to minimize cleanup by using only one pan. Cooking the bacon first allows you to use the rendered fat for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, infusing the dish with layers of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Salad: Serve this dish alongside a fresh garden salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• For Meal Prep: This recipe is also great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
• Toppings: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to enhance the flavors even more.

Perfect For:

• Weeknight Dinners: Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Low-Carb Lifestyle: A satisfying option for those on low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets.
• Family-Friendly Meals: The creamy sauce and savory bacon make this dish appealing to kids and adults alike.

Related Recipes:

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Zoodles: Swap the chicken and bacon for shrimp for a seafood twist on this creamy zoodle dish.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus: Another one-pan wonder with zesty lemon and tender asparagus.
• Zucchini Noodle Carbonara: A low-carb version of the classic pasta carbonara, using zucchini noodles instead of spaghetti.

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein, chicken breast helps build muscle and keeps you feeling full. It’s versatile and easily absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and sauce in this dish.
• Bacon: Adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Bacon also provides some fat, which is essential for a satisfying low-carb meal. You can choose turkey bacon for a leaner option.
• Zucchini: A low-calorie vegetable rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Spiralized into noodles, zucchini provides a satisfying pasta-like texture without the carbs and calories found in traditional pasta.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, luscious sauce that brings the dish together. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition to this dish. It’s also low in calories and complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream and bacon. You can use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, adding a salty and umami flavor. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes. Garlic pairs perfectly with the cream and bacon, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Seasonings (Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes): Italian seasoning provides a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, while paprika adds a mild smokiness. Red pepper flakes introduce a hint of spice that balances the creamy richness.

Dietary Considerations:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Using zucchini noodles as a pasta substitute is a great way to enjoy a classic creamy pasta dish without gluten.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: With just a few grams of carbs per serving, this dish is an excellent option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The high-fat content from the cream and bacon helps keep you in ketosis.
• Paleo Adaptable: To make this dish paleo-friendly, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese. You’ll still have a creamy, satisfying sauce without dairy.

How to Spiralize Zucchini:

If you don’t have pre-spiralized zucchini, you can easily make zucchini noodles (zoodles) at home using a spiralizer, julienne peeler, or mandoline slicer. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Spiralizer: Attach the zucchini to the spiralizer and turn the handle to create long noodles. Choose the blade size that matches your desired noodle thickness.
2. Julienne Peeler: Use the peeler to create thin, spaghetti-like strands. This method works well if you don’t have a spiralizer.
3. Mandoline Slicer: Set the mandoline to the julienne setting and slide the zucchini along the blade to make uniform noodles.

Storing and Reheating:

• Storing: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Since zucchini noodles can release water over time, it’s best to store the sauce and noodles separately if possible.
• Reheating: When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat to warm the dish gently. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can cause the zucchini noodles to become mushy.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even sliced sausage to change up the flavor and protein content.
• Vegetable Variations: Add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus to increase the fiber and nutrient content. You can also use different leafy greens like kale or arugula in place of spinach.
• Sauce Alternatives: For a dairy-free cream sauce, use cashew cream or a blend of coconut milk and nutritional yeast to create a rich, velvety sauce.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Wine Pairing: This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the sauce, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a light side salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to complement the creaminess of the main dish. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty whole-grain bread can also be a great addition for those who aren’t following a low-carb diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-Pan Convenience: Cooking everything in one pan not only simplifies the process but also means less cleanup. The flavors meld together beautifully in the pan, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.
• Balanced Flavors: The creaminess of the sauce, the saltiness of the bacon, and the freshness of the vegetables make this dish a flavor-packed meal. Each bite offers a combination of textures and tastes that satisfy even the most discerning palate.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare a large batch and divide it into portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or quick weeknight dinners.

Conclusion:

This One-Pan Creamy Chicken and Bacon Zucchini Noodles recipe is a versatile, low-carb meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With its rich garlic cream sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh zucchini noodles, it offers a comforting yet healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or satisfying family dinners, this dish can be customized to fit various dietary needs. Enjoy the balance of flavors and convenience of a one-pan meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.