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Keto Chicken Alfredo Zoodles – Creamy, Comforting, and Low-Carb

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-size strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but classic)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 medium zucchini, spiralized into zoodles (about 6–8 cups loosely packed)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, to thin sauce if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the zucchini: Spiralize zucchini into noodles. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt, and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels before cooking.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and the onion powder. This helps it sear well and builds flavor from the start.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 4–6 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  4. Make the garlic base: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, then garlic. Sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits. Don’t let the garlic burn.
  5. Build the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan a little at a time until melted and smooth. Stir in nutmeg and Italian seasoning. Taste and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen.
  6. Return the chicken: Add cooked chicken and any juices back into the pan. Simmer 1–2 minutes to coat the chicken and let flavors meld.
  7. Cook the zoodles: You have two options. For the firmest texture, quickly sauté zoodles in a separate pan with a touch of oil for 1–2 minutes. For a one-pan approach, fold the zoodles directly into the sauce and toss over medium heat for 1–2 minutes. Do not overcook—they should be crisp-tender.
  8. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Top with extra Parmesan and serve immediately.