Spiralized zucchini and lean chicken in a light soy-lemon sauce for a quick, high-protein, low-calorie dinner.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Proteins
01 - 9 ounces skinless chicken breast, trimmed and cut into bite-sized strips
→ Vegetables
02 - 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
03 - 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 clove garlic, minced
→ Sauce
06 - 3.4 fluid ounces low-sodium chicken broth (about 1/3 cup)
07 - 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for strict gluten-free)
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
09 - 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional; mix with cold water to slurry if thicker sauce is desired)
→ Seasonings & Garnish
11 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt (optional; adjust to taste)
13 - Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 - Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel, then season evenly with ground black pepper and a light pinch of salt.
02 - Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until the underside is golden; flip and cook another 2 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
03 - Return the skillet to medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes until slightly softened.
04 - Pour in the chicken broth, add the light soy sauce and lemon juice, and bring to a gentle simmer. If using cornstarch, whisk the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water into a smooth slurry and stir into the simmering liquid; simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
05 - Add the spiralized zucchini to the skillet and toss gently for 2–3 minutes until the noodles are just tender but retain some bite; avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
06 - Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, toss everything to combine, and heat through for 1–2 minutes so flavors meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Divide between two bowls or plates, garnish with chopped parsley or basil, and serve immediately.
