Name: Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 clove garlic; 2 tsp fresh ginger; 4 tbsp peanut butter; 1 lime; 2 tbsp soy sauce; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp canola oil; 2 cups chicken breast; 3 zucchini; 2 Large Carrots; 1 red pepper; ⅓ cup fresh cilantro; ¼ cup Green Onions; unsalted roasted peanuts; lime wedges

Indulge in a healthy and flavorful Thai-inspired dish combining the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter with fresh zucchini noodles and tender chicken breast. This recipe offers a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta while bursting with vibrant colors and textures.

Photos of Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe

If you don't commonly stock fresh ginger, lime, or cilantro, make sure to add these to your shopping list. These ingredients bring essential freshness and zing to the dish. Zucchini for noodles and unsalted roasted peanuts for garnish might also not be in your pantry.

Ingredients For Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe

Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the dish.

Fresh ginger: Provides a zesty, spicy kick that enhances the overall taste.

Peanut butter: Creates a creamy, nutty base for the sauce.

Lime: Adds fresh, tangy notes through its juice and zest.

Soy sauce: Contributes a salty, umami flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness.

Canola oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients.

Chicken breast: Provides a lean source of protein.

Zucchini: Spiralized into noodles for a healthy, low-carb base.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and crunch.

Red pepper: Brings vibrant color and a slight sweetness.

Cilantro: Adds fresh, herbal notes.

Green onions: Provides a mild, onion-like flavor.

Unsalted roasted peanuts: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor for garnish.

Lime wedges: Optional, for extra tanginess when serving.

One reader, Deonne Hickman says:

This healthy Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant, and the dish is incredibly satisfying. The peanut sauce is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing the fresh veggies and tender chicken. A delicious, guilt-free meal that’s easy to make!

Deonne Hickman

Techniques for Preparing Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

How to mince garlic: Finely chop the garlic clove into small pieces. How to grate ginger: Use a grater to finely shred the fresh ginger. How to zest a lime: Use a zester or fine grater to remove the outer green layer of the lime. How to juice a lime: Cut the lime in half and squeeze out the juice. How to spiralize zucchini: Use a spiralizer to create noodle-like strands from the zucchini. How to julienne carrots: Cut the carrots into thin, matchstick-like pieces. How to dice a red pepper: Cut the red pepper into small, even pieces. How to chop cilantro: Finely chop the fresh cilantro leaves. How to slice green onions: Thinly slice the green onions into small rings.

How To Make Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles are a light and healthy alternative to pasta. In this recipe, they’re cooked in a Thai-inspired peanut and lime sauce.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1clovegarlic,minced
2tspfresh ginger,minced
4tbsppeanut butter
1lime,zested and juiced
2tbspsoy sauce
¼tspred pepper flakes
2tbspcanola oil
2cupschicken breast,cooked and shredded
3zucchini,spiral sliced
2large carrots,spiral sliced
1red pepper,spiral sliced
⅓cupfresh cilantro,chopped
¼cupgreen onions,diced
unsalted roasted peanuts,chopped, optional as a garnish
lime wedges,optional as a garnish

Instructions

Add the garlic, ginger, peanut butter, lime juice and zest, soy sauce and red pepper flakes to a small bowl and mix together.
To a large frying pan, add canola oil on high heat.
Add the zucchini, carrots and bell peppers to the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until just wilted, stirring occasionally.
Add in the chicken, sauce, cilantro and green onions and toss together until all warmed through.
Garnish with peanuts and wedges of lime if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 278.87kcal
Fat: 17.64g
Saturated Fat: 3.56g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.29g
Carbohydrates: 11.89g
Fiber: 3.36g
Sugar: 6.03g
Protein: 20.39g
Cholesterol: 48.21mg
Sodium: 369.09mg
Calcium: 51.33mg
Potassium: 664.32mg
Iron: 1.55mg
Vitamin A: 265.31µg
Vitamin C: 51.19mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

When spiralizing the zucchini, make sure to pat the noodles dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming too watery when cooked, ensuring a better texture for your dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop garlic, ginger, and vegetables in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Opt for pre-cooked chicken breast to reduce cooking time.

Spiralize zucchini beforehand: Spiralize zucchini and store in the fridge to streamline meal prep.

Make sauce in bulk: Prepare extra peanut sauce and store it for future use.

Organize ingredients: Arrange all ingredients within reach before starting to cook.

Substitute Ingredients For Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe

garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile and is convenient if fresh garlic is not available.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, though it has a slightly different flavor and is more concentrated.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter is a healthier alternative and provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide a similar acidic and citrusy flavor, though it is slightly more tart.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar level of heat, though it is more intense, so use sparingly.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and works well for cooking and flavor.
chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein alternative that absorbs flavors well.
zucchini - Substitute with cucumber: Cucumber can be spiralized similarly to zucchini, though it has a higher water content and a milder flavor.
carrots - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can be spiralized and offer a slightly sweeter flavor and more nutrients.
red pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper provides a similar crunch and sweetness.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a different but still fresh and vibrant flavor.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
unsalted roasted peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges can provide a similar acidic and refreshing finish to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Use a spiralizer for the zucchini noodles: Create long, even strands of zucchini to mimic traditional noodles. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures a consistent texture.
Julienne the carrots and red pepper: Cut the carrots and red pepper into thin, uniform strips to add a vibrant color contrast and a delicate crunch.
Cook the vegetables to perfection: Sauté the zucchini, carrots, and red pepper just until they are wilted but still retain a slight crunch. This preserves their natural flavors and textures.
Slice the chicken breast thinly: Ensure the chicken breast is sliced into thin, even pieces for quick and uniform cooking. This helps in maintaining tenderness and juiciness.
Prepare the peanut sauce meticulously: Mix garlic, ginger, peanut butter, lime juice and zest, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes until smooth. This sauce should be creamy and well-balanced to coat the noodles and chicken evenly.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and green onions over the dish for a burst of freshness and a pop of color.
Add a crunch with unsalted roasted peanuts: Scatter unsalted roasted peanuts on top for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the peanut sauce.
Serve with lime wedges: Place lime wedges on the side for an optional zesty kick that diners can squeeze over their dish to enhance the flavors.
Plate with precision: Arrange the zucchini noodles in a neat nest in the center of the plate. Layer the chicken and vegetables artfully on top, ensuring each component is visible and inviting.
Finish with a drizzle of peanut sauce: Lightly drizzle extra peanut sauce over the plated dish for a glossy finish that ties all the elements together.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Garlic press: To efficiently mince the garlic clove for the sauce.
Microplane grater: To finely grate the fresh ginger and zest the lime.
Small mixing bowl: To combine the garlic, ginger, peanut butter, lime juice and zest, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.
Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients together until smooth.
Large frying pan: To cook the vegetables and chicken.
Spiralizer: To create zucchini noodles from the zucchini.
Vegetable peeler: To peel the carrots.
Chef's knife: To chop the red pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the vegetables and herbs.
Tongs: To toss the vegetables and chicken together in the pan.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the soy sauce, canola oil, and red pepper flakes.
Measuring cups: To measure the peanut butter and chicken breast.
Serving platter: To present the finished dish.
Lime squeezer: To extract juice from the lime for the sauce and garnish.
Serving spoon: To serve the finished dish onto plates.
Kitchen scale: To accurately measure the chicken breast if needed.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the healthy Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles recipe:

Storing in the fridge: Transfer any leftover Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The zucchini noodles may release some water during storage, so you can drain the excess liquid before reheating.
Reheating from the fridge: To reheat, simply microwave the noodles in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezing the dish: If you want to freeze the Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles, it's best to store the zucchini noodles and the chicken mixture separately. Allow both components to cool completely before transferring them to separate freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
Thawing and reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the frozen Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles, remove the containers from the freezer and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The zucchini noodles can be reheated in the microwave or added to the skillet to heat through and combine with the chicken mixture. If the dish seems dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up.

How To Reheat Leftover Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Reheat the leftover healthy thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help steam the zucchini noodles and prevent them from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover healthy thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have time, reheat the leftover healthy thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the flavors to meld together.
For a crispy texture, reheat the leftover healthy thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles under the broiler. Preheat the broiler on high. Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken and vegetables are lightly charred and heated through. Watch closely to prevent burning.
To maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables, consider reheating the chicken and sauce separately from the zucchini noodles. Reheat the chicken and sauce using one of the above methods, then toss with the zucchini noodles just before serving. This will help prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming overcooked and mushy.

Interesting Fact About Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

A fun fact about this recipe is that using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta significantly reduces the calorie and carbohydrate content, making it a healthier option. Additionally, peanut butter adds a rich source of protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Is Making Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles at Home Cost-Effective?

This healthy Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like zucchini, carrots, and chicken breast are affordable and readily available. The use of peanut butter and soy sauce adds rich flavor without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet nutritious option.

Is This Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe Healthy?

This Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It incorporates a variety of nutritious ingredients, such as:

Zucchini noodles (zoodles), which are low in calories and carbohydrates but high in fiber and vitamins
Lean chicken breast, providing a good source of protein
Colorful vegetables like carrots and red peppers, offering a range of vitamins and minerals
Fresh herbs and spices, adding flavor without excessive calories or sodium
Peanut butter, providing healthy fats and protein

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The canola oil used for cooking could be replaced with a healthier option like olive oil or coconut oil
The amount of soy sauce could be reduced to lower the sodium content
The peanut butter should be a natural, unsweetened variety to avoid added sugars and oils

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the variety of vegetables by adding mushrooms, snap peas, or bean sprouts for extra fiber and nutrients
Incorporate additional protein sources like tofu or edamame for a vegetarian option
Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos as a healthier alternative to regular soy sauce
Garnish with fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint for added flavor and antioxidants
Serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete, balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on This Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with the fresh zest of lime and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes. The use of zucchini noodles and fresh vegetables keeps it light and healthy, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein boost. The cilantro and green onions provide a fresh, aromatic finish, and the peanuts add a pleasant crunch. Overall, it's a well-rounded, nutritious dish that's both flavorful and visually appealing.

Enhance Your Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Coconut Rice: Imagine the tropical sweetness of mango paired with the creamy richness of coconut rice. This side dish will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles.

Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a kick of spice will add a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness to your meal. The cool cucumbers and tangy dressing will balance the rich peanut sauce beautifully.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crispy spring rolls are packed with fresh vegetables and a hint of herbs. They provide a delightful contrast in texture and a light, crunchy bite that pairs wonderfully with the Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles.

Tom Yum Soup: A bowl of Tom Yum Soup with its spicy, sour, and aromatic flavors will warm your soul and enhance the Thai dining experience. The lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal in the soup will complement the zesty lime in the main dish.

Pineapple Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing pineapple sorbet. The tangy and sweet flavors of pineapple will cleanse your palate and provide a cool, fruity finish to your Thai-inspired feast.

Similar Recipes to Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken with Cauliflower Rice: Dive into a flavorful fusion of chicken and vegetables with this dish. The spicy kick from the Thai basil and the light, fluffy cauliflower rice make it a perfect low-carb alternative. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken Salad: Experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine with this refreshing salad. Juicy chicken breast marinated in lemongrass and fish sauce pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs. Top with crunchy peanuts and a tangy lime dressing.

Sesame Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry: A quick and easy stir-fry that combines tender chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables. The sesame oil and fresh ginger add a delightful aroma and depth of flavor. Serve over a bed of brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Mango Chicken Lettuce Wraps: These lettuce wraps are a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Succulent chicken is paired with juicy mango, crunchy bell peppers, and a hint of cilantro. Wrap it all up in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing and light meal.

Coconut Curry Chicken with Sweet Potatoes: Indulge in the creamy richness of coconut milk and the warmth of curry spices in this comforting dish. Tender chicken and sweet potatoes simmered to perfection create a hearty and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of steamed rice or naan bread.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles

Appetizers:

Thai Spring Rolls: Delight your guests with Thai Spring Rolls filled with a medley of fresh vegetables and herbs. The crisp rice paper wrappers encase a vibrant mix of julienned carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, complemented by aromatic mint and cilantro. Serve these rolls with a tangy peanut dipping sauce that combines soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor.

Spicy Thai Chicken Satay: Offer a tantalizing start to your meal with Spicy Thai Chicken Satay. Marinated in a blend of coconut milk, curry powder, and lime zest, the chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, achieving a smoky char. Pair these skewers with a creamy peanut sauce enriched with ginger and garlic, and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge in a creamy and decadent mousse that combines the richness of chocolate with the smooth texture of avocado. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. The avocado adds a velvety texture, while the chocolate provides a deep, satisfying flavor. Top it off with a sprinkle of sea salt and a few fresh berries for a burst of color and taste. Perfect for those who crave a sweet treat without the guilt.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Experience a tropical delight with this pudding that combines the exotic flavors of mango and coconut. The chia seeds create a unique, tapioca-like texture that is both fun and satisfying. This dessert is not only refreshing but also packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Garnish with a handful of toasted coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey to enhance the natural sweetness. Ideal for a light and nutritious end to your meal.

Why trust this Healthy Thai Peanut Chicken Zucchini Noodles Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and soy sauce with the freshness of zucchini and carrots. The addition of fresh ginger and lime juice adds a zesty kick, while cilantro and green onions bring a burst of freshness. It's a healthy, balanced meal featuring lean chicken breast and nutrient-dense vegetables. Plus, the garnish of unsalted roasted peanuts adds a delightful crunch. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Excited to try this delicious and healthy Thai peanut chicken zucchini noodles recipe? Join our Recipe Sharing forum to share your experience making the dish and discuss any variations or tips with fellow cooking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

How do I make zucchini noodles?

You can use a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles. If you don't have one, a vegetable peeler or julienne peeler works too. Just slice the zucchini into thin strips.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?

Absolutely! You can use olive oil, avocado oil, or even coconut oil if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different oils have different smoke points.

What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have a nut allergy?

You can use sunflower seed butter or tahini as a substitute for peanut butter. Both will give you a creamy texture and a slightly different but delicious flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be white all the way through with no pink in the center. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Just skip the chicken and add more veggies or use tofu as a protein substitute. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.