Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both comforting and fresh, then this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe is just what you need! It combines tender chicken with the unique texture of spaghetti squash, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy sauce filled with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a family gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s healthy without sacrificing flavor!

I absolutely love how easy it is to prepare this dish. In just 40 minutes, you can have a colorful and delicious meal on your table that everyone will adore. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken breast and plenty of veggies, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy sauce and fun texture of spaghetti squash!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time for an even quicker dinner on those hectic nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dish. Each component plays an important role in delivering the flavors and textures that make this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe so special.

For the Dish

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and julienned
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 ounces baby spinach

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Try adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like some heat!

How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Pierce the spaghetti squash with a knife to allow steam to escape while cooking. Microwave it for about 8-12 minutes until tender or roast it in the oven if you prefer. Let it cool before handling; this will make shredding easier later on!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink—this keeps it juicy! Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In that same skillet, add the remaining butter along with minced garlic and shallot. Sauté until they are softened; this step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness. Stir in those beautiful sun-dried tomatoes next!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle bubble—this is where all those flavors meld together beautifully! After turning off the heat, stir in your grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach until everything is combined. Finally, return your chicken back to the pan to soak up all that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Carefully cut your cooled spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out any seeds before using a fork to shred its flesh into spaghetti-like strands. This unique texture will serve as a delicious base for our creamy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Gently stir those shredded strands of spaghetti squash into your creamy sauce until everything is well coated. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Tuscan-inspired dish!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that can be perfected with a few handy tips!

• Choose a ripe spaghetti squash: A good-quality squash will have a smooth, golden skin and feel heavy for its size. This ensures it’s sweet and tender when cooked.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the garlic and shallot to soften properly before adding other ingredients. This enhances the flavor of your sauce, making it more aromatic and delicious.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or plant-based cream alternatives. This keeps the dish creamy while reducing calories.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture. They’ll blend well with the Tuscan flavors.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance! Store the chicken and sauce separately from the spaghetti squash until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Presenting your Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash beautifully can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan: Offering extra Parmesan on the side allows guests to customize their creaminess level, making each bite even more delicious.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, providing a satisfying contrast in textures.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the main dish while adding freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring additional color and nutrients to your table, creating a vibrant plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy side that balances out the richness of the chicken and cream sauce without overpowering it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy creating this delightful meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste amazing, but it also holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the Tuscan chicken and spaghetti squash into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
• Label each container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just ensure your Parmesan cheese is plant-based if you want to keep it entirely dairy-free.

What can I serve with Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies everyone at your table!

How long does it take to prepare the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe?

This recipe takes approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for dinner.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe as much as I do! It’s not just healthy; it’s also bursting with flavor and warmth—perfect for sharing with loved ones. Try this delightful dish soon; I’m sure it will become a staple in your home!