Some nights, you want pasta vibes without the pasta nap. You know—light, fresh, still filling, but not the kind of meal that makes you want to lie down immediately after. That’s where these Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Chicken come in. Fast, flavorful, and perfect for one, they’re basically a weeknight miracle disguised as a plate of green goodness.
This is one of those meals that feels like you put in more effort than you actually did. But spoiler alert: it comes together in under 10 minutes, and only uses one pan. You don’t even have to boil water. Victory.
🌱 Why This Dish Is a Total Win (For Your Body and Your Calendar)
- Zucchini noodles (aka “zoodles”) are low in carbs, high in fiber, and great at soaking up flavor. Plus, they cook in about a minute, which is honestly a dream when you’re starving.
- Grilled chicken breast gives you a lean protein boost to keep you full and fueled.
- Pesto brings bold flavor and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, with zero extra effort.
- Olive oil gives it that perfect sautéed texture and a little Mediterranean flair.
It’s the kind of simple meal that feels both comforting and clean—ideal for when you want to eat well, but can’t deal with chopping a million things.
📝 When “Dinner for One” Became a Self-Care Ritual
This recipe became a regular in my rotation during a week when I was trying to reset after a string of “whoops, takeout again” nights. I spiralized a zucchini more out of guilt than inspiration, tossed in some pesto from the back of the fridge, and topped it with leftover grilled chicken. It took five minutes. I lit a candle. I sat down to eat without a screen.
And it felt… kind of amazing? Like I was treating myself, but also being kind to my body. Now I keep pesto and spiralized zucchini on standby at all times.
🍝 Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 small zucchini, spiralized
- 100g grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp olive oil
How to make it:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until tender (don’t overdo it—they’re best with a little bite).
- Remove from heat and toss with pesto until evenly coated.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken and enjoy immediately.
💡 Quick Tips
- No spiralizer? You can buy pre-spiralized zucchini at most grocery stores—or use a veggie peeler for rustic ribbons.
- Add-ons: Toss in cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra texture and flavor.
- Need it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
This meal is perfect when you want something light, fast, and actually satisfying. It’s healthy without trying too hard—and sometimes that’s exactly what you need after a long day.
Tried it? Let me know what twist you added—or tag me in your zoodle masterpiece! 🍃🍗
Craving more quick, wholesome meals that don’t skimp on flavour?
If this zoodle dish hit the spot, you might also love these solo-friendly recipes:
- The 7-Minute Meal That Feels Like a Win: Turkey & Spinach Omelet – A protein-packed omelet that’s as satisfying as it is speedy.
- Nourishing Lentil Soup with Greek Yogurt (for When You Just Want to Feel Human Again) – Comfort in a bowl, perfect for those cozy nights in.
- 10 Quick & Healthy Meals for One (When You’re Busy, Hungry & Over It) – A roundup of go-to recipes when time and energy are in short supply.
- Simple Stir-Fried Tofu with Veggies – A plant-based delight that comes together in a flash.
- One-Pan Lemon Garlic Salmon – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor—your weeknight dinner hero.
- Easy Chickpea Salad with Feta & Herbs – A refreshing, no-cook option that’s big on taste.
- Spaghetti Squash with Marinara & Mozzarella – A low-carb twist on a classic comfort food.
These recipes are all about making solo dining feel special, without the fuss. Give them a try and keep your meal rotation fresh and exciting!
Looking for more 10-minute solo dinners that don’t skimp on flavour? Drop your email in the side-bar and I’ll send you my weekly favourites, no spam—just good food and better vibes.
Remember: eat well, live well, stress less.
