Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant stir-fry featuring herb-infused chicken and zucchini noodles for a fresh, satisfying meal. This asian-inspired chicken (low carb) ready in about 32 minutes blends (boneless, skinless) chicken thighs, medium (spiralized) zucchini, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 315 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Asian cuisine 315 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes and season with 1/4 tsp sea salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through; remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add minced garlic and stir 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add spiralized zucchini noodles and cook 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp, stirring frequently.
  5. Step 5: Return chicken to skillet, add coconut aminos, and toss to coat. Squeeze lime juice over top, then stir in fresh basil. Cook 1 minute more until flavors meld.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles take to make?

Total time is about 32 minutes (20 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Pesto-Free Basil Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles low carb?

Yes — this recipe is tagged low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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