Contents
Introduction
Teriyaki Chicken Zucchini Noodles is a delicious and healthy meal option that is quick to prepare. The dish combines succulent pieces of marinated chicken with a savory teriyaki sauce, served over fresh spiralized zucchini noodles. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, offering a satisfying alternative to traditional pasta dishes while keeping the meal light and nutritious.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon cornstarch
⅓ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons honey
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ pounds (4 medium-sized) zucchini, spiralized
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Prep Time
30 minutes for marinating the chicken (can be extended to overnight)
Cook Time
Approximately 6 minutes
Total Time
36 minutes to 1 hour (if marinated overnight)
Yield
Serves 4
This recipe provides a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making mealtime an enjoyable experience. The use of zucchini noodles not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a unique twist to a classic dish. Enjoy this tasty teriyaki chicken recipe for a satisfying and healthy meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and ¼ cup water; set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, honey, and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 2 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature. Reserve ¼ cup of the sauce and set aside.
Marinate the Chicken:
In a gallon-sized Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine the prepared soy sauce mixture (excluding the reserved ¼ cup) and the chicken pieces. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even coating. After marinating, drain the chicken from the marinade.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Combine with Zucchini Noodles:
Stir in the spiralized zucchini noodles and the reserved ¼ cup of soy sauce mixture. Cook until well combined and the zucchini noodles are tender, about 2 minutes.
Serve:
Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions:
You can substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spiralizer:
If you do not have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips of zucchini.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa if you want to add a grain to your meal.
Cook techniques
Whisking the Sauce
To ensure a smooth sauce, whisk the cornstarch with water before adding it to the other ingredients. This helps to avoid any lumps.
Marinating Chicken
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. Make sure to turn the bag occasionally for even coating.
Cooking Chicken
Cook the chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown. This not only enhances flavor but also ensures the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Zucchini Noodles
Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook just until tender. Avoid overcooking to maintain a nice texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use tofu, shrimp, or beef as alternatives to chicken. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use regular noodles instead of zucchini noodles?
Yes, you can substitute regular noodles or pasta if you prefer, but it will change the dish’s overall health profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a small amount of water or additional broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Conclusion
This Teriyaki Chicken Zucchini Noodles recipe is a delicious and healthy option for those looking for a quick meal. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful teriyaki sauce, and fresh zucchini noodles creates a satisfying dish that is both nutritious and easy to prepare. Enjoy the sensational flavors and the vibrant presentation!
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