One Pot Kung Pao Chicken Zoodle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this One Pot Kung Pao Chicken Zoodle recipe because it’s packed with vibrant flavors, textures, and colors, yet remains light and healthy. It delivers all the satisfying spiciness and savory goodness of traditional Kung Pao Chicken without the heaviness of rice or noodles. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes with minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in a single pan. It’s a perfect option for busy nights when you want something delicious and wholesome.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil

• 3 zucchinis, spiralized into noodles

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 cup cashews or peanuts (unsalted)

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

• 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or gluten-free soy sauce)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch (optional, for thickening)

• 2 tablespoons water (if using arrowroot starch)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Lime wedges (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.

2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the garlic, ginger, and red bell pepper for about 2-3 minutes until just softened.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. If using arrowroot starch, mix it with the water and add it to the sauce mixture.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

6. Add the spiralized zucchini noodles and toss gently, cooking for 2-3 minutes just until the zoodles are tender but not mushy.

7. Stir in the cashews or peanuts and green onions, cooking for another minute.

8. Remove from heat and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based meal.

• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, snap peas, or shredded carrots for more variety and color.

• Nut-Free Option: Omit the cashews or peanuts and use sunflower seeds or skip the nuts entirely.

• Different Noodles: Use sweet potato noodles or carrot noodles instead of zucchini for a change.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid overheating to prevent the zoodles from becoming too soft.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes to adjust the spice level to your preference.

What’s the best way to spiralize zucchini?

You can use a handheld spiralizer or a countertop spiralizer. Choose zucchinis that are firm and straight for best results.

Can I prepare the zucchini noodles ahead of time?

Yes, spiralize the zucchini ahead of time and store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

How do I prevent the zoodles from getting soggy?

Cook the zoodles briefly, just until tender-crisp. Overcooking will cause them to release too much water and become mushy.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful and work perfectly in this dish.

Is this recipe Whole30 compliant?

Yes, if you use coconut aminos and ensure all other ingredients are compliant, this recipe fits Whole30 guidelines.

Can I substitute another protein?

Yes, shrimp, beef, or even pork would work well in place of the chicken.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust the spice level up or down depending on your taste.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze, as the zucchini noodles will become watery when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What can I serve with Kung Pao Chicken Zoodle?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can add a simple cucumber salad or steamed vegetables for extra freshness.

Conclusion

One Pot Kung Pao Chicken Zoodle is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy meal that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures together in one easy skillet. Perfect for low-carb and Whole30 lifestyles, this dish is quick to make, customizable, and full of the delicious spicy-sweet flavors you love in a lighter, guilt-free form. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.