Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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

A quick keto stir-fry combining tender chicken and crisp zucchini coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, perfect for a low-carb meal. This italian-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 30 minutes blends medium, sliced into half-moons zucchini, unsalted butter, heavy cream 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 480 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: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 lb cut chicken thighs and season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs. Sauté for 6-7 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  3. Step 3: Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.
  4. Step 4: Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the melted butter and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 2 sliced medium zucchinis and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  6. Step 6: Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and stir in 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, cooking for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the zucchini.
  7. Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce and zucchini. Cook for 1 more minute until heated through.
  8. Step 8: Serve hot, enjoying the creamy, cheesy coating rich in fats and protein.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

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 Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

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 Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce 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 Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini and Creamy Parmesan Sauce keto?

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

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