Elevate your dinner routine with this delicious and healthy Keto Chicken Pesto Pasta, a low-carb twist on a classic favorite. This dish features tender spiralized zucchini noodles lightly sautéed to perfection and paired with juicy, golden-brown chicken strips. A homemade basil pesto made from fresh garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon gives this recipe its irresistible flavor, while red pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Ready in just 35 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights and equally impressive for gatherings. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant flavors, this keto-friendly recipe is a guilt-free indulgence that's sure to impress.
Start by spiralizing the zucchini into noodles using a spiralizer. Set aside and lightly sprinkle with salt to drain excess moisture.
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Season with salt and black pepper evenly on both sides.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, and lemon juice. Slowly drizzle in two tablespoons of olive oil while processing until a smooth pesto forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In the same skillet used for cooking the chicken, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the spiralized zucchini noodles for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Be careful not to overcook them.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the prepared pesto, and toss everything together until the noodles and chicken are nicely coated.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately while warm.
Calories |
1462 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 92.1 g | 118% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.2 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 302 mg | 101% | |
| Sodium | 9260 mg | 403% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 54.4 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 42.5 g | ||
| Protein | 111.9 g | 224% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 623 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 6.4 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 2460 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.