“Chicken Lo Mein” Zoodles

Every time the new year rolls around, it seems like everyone makes a resolution involving weight loss, healthy eating, or general fitness. We’ve been eating zoodles for awhile now (see here, here, here, & here), but I think they’re a great way to simultaneously cut calories and add more healthy vegetables to your dinners! This zoodles dish was inspired by a recipe I’ve had saved on Pinterest for awhile now from the blog/website SkinnyTaste. On this site, you can find so many healthy recipe ideas and healthier variations of classics. Given that takeout chicken lo mein can top out anywhere from 1000 to 1500 calories per carton (obviously varying between restaurants and preparations), this homemade version will probably serve your New Year’s resolution AND your waistline well!

“Chicken Lo Mein” Zoodles

(Recipe adapted from Skinny Taste)

Ingredients: 

• 12oz chicken breast
• 2 med-large zucchini
• Vegetables to stir fry – options:
  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Onions
  • Mushrooms
  • Green onions
  • Snow peas
  • Broccoli
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 3 tsp sesame oil, divided
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp flour
• Salt & pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder

Instructions: 

1. Prepare the zoodles. (Click if you need more instruction.)
2. Slice the chicken and your choices of vegetables.
3. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of garlic powder.
4. Heat the 1 tbsp of neutral oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes until no translucent spots are visible.
5. Remove the chicken to the side and wipe clean if needed.
6. Add 2 tsp of sesame oil to the pan and increase heat to medium-high. Once oil is quite hot, add the vegetables. Stir fry for 4-5 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, whisk together remaining 1 tsp of sesame oil, chicken stock, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, and flour.
8. Remove vegetables to the side and lower heat to medium.
9. Add sauce to the pan. Allow to warm for 2-3 minutes, stirring as needed.
10. Add zoodles, other vegetables, and chicken to the pan. Cook over medium heat for ~5 additional minutes so everything is coated in sauce and vegetables are cooked to your liking.

Serving sizes depends on how many vegetables you choose to add!