This Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Zucchini and Pesto Dressing is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, spiralized zucchini, and a rich basil pesto dressing, this recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Whether served warm or chilled, this dish is both hearty and refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
- Fresh and Healthy: Packed with veggies like zucchini and cherry tomatoes, along with a protein boost from chicken, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Bursting with Flavor: The basil pesto dressing adds a bright, herby flavor, while Parmesan cheese and pine nuts bring a rich, nutty touch.
- Versatile: Serve it immediately for a warm dish or chill it for a refreshing pasta salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Spaghetti: 12 oz, cooked and drained.
- Cooked Chicken Breast: 2 cups, shredded, for a lean protein source.
- Zucchini: 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized or thinly sliced, adding freshness and crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated, for a rich, salty flavor.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup, adding a delicious nutty crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1/2 cup, halved for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup chopped, enhancing the flavor with its fragrant aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
For the Basil Pesto Dressing
- Basil Pesto: 1/2 cup, the star ingredient for a flavorful, creamy dressing.
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup extra virgin, for smoothness and richness.
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, adding a zesty brightness.
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced, for an extra kick of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, spiralized zucchini, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil.
- Make the Pesto Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the basil pesto dressing over the spaghetti mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for a warm dish or chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Either way, it’s delicious!
Cooking Tips
- Zucchini Options: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can slice the zucchini thinly using a vegetable peeler or mandoline.
- Pasta Substitute: Feel free to swap out spaghetti for your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne.
- Add Veggies: For extra veggies, consider adding roasted bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
Storage Tips
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time.
- Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat in the microwave. You can also enjoy this dish cold as a pasta salad.
- Freezing: While the pasta can be frozen, the fresh ingredients like zucchini may lose their texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Benefits of this Recipe
- High in Protein: With the addition of shredded chicken, this dish provides a good amount of protein to keep you full and energized.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: The olive oil and pine nuts contribute healthy fats, which are essential for overall wellness.
- Packed with Vegetables: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making this a nutrient-dense meal.
- Bursting with Flavor: The basil pesto dressing not only adds flavor but also provides antioxidants from the fresh herbs and garlic.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Zucchini and Pesto Dressing
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, crusty garlic bread, or even a light soup for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Spaghetti with Zucchini and Pesto Dressing is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this dish is sure to satisfy your craving for something fresh, hearty, and delicious. Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish at your next gathering!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
This recipe is a perfect combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition in a single bowl. Happy cooking!
