Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is an easy, delicious dish that highlights the natural sweetness of spaghetti squash while incorporating tender chicken and fresh spinach. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Its creamy texture and rich flavors will delight your taste buds, making it a standout dish at your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this dish is a great option for those seeking a balanced meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this meal quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the stuffing by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food: The creamy garlic parmesan filling makes this dish feel indulgent without the guilt.
• Low-Carb Option: Spaghetti squash serves as a fantastic low-carb substitute for pasta, satisfying cravings without the extra carbs.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure that everything comes out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly in the oven.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for safely cutting through tough spaghetti squash skin.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients like chicken, garlic, and spinach together quickly.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the creamy filling before stuffing the squash.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 2 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Filling

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 8 ounces fresh spinach
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

• Cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
• Brush the cut sides with olive oil.
• Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Bake the Squash

Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

While the squash bakes:
* In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
* Add cubed chicken pieces and cook until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet:
* Add remaining butter and cook onion until translucent.
* Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
* Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Step 6: Make the Filling

To the skillet:
* Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
* Stir in cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and return cooked chicken to skillet. Mix well.
* Add half of the chopped parsley and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Combine Squash with Filling

Once baked:
* Use a fork to create spaghetti-like strands within each half of the squash.
* Mix some of the creamy chicken mixture with these strands.

Step 8: Stuff and Bake Again

Fill each squash half with the remaining filling. Top with additional parmesan cheese.
Bake again for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 9: Serve

Let cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with remaining parsley before serving. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Individual Plates

• Serve each stuffed half on a plate for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy the dish while highlighting its beautiful presentation.

Family Style

• Place all stuffed squash halves on a large serving platter. Let everyone help themselves, creating a communal dining experience that encourages sharing and conversation.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the squash with a fresh green salad. A simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed squash.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Garnish each serving with additional fresh parsley or basil before serving. This adds color and freshness while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Perfecting your Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose ripe squash: Select spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This ensures optimal flavor and texture.

• Cook chicken thoroughly: Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and tenderness.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried or frozen options.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the filling before stuffing the squash. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.

• Experiment with cheese: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Fontina for added creaminess and flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash enhances your meal’s overall taste experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy filling beautifully, providing a satisfying contrast in texture.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil for a colorful addition packed with nutrients.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a tangy complement that balances the richness of the stuffed squash.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs adds protein and makes for a hearty side that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, refreshing the palate after each bite of stuffed squash.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and crunch, making them an ideal healthy side option that’s quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach to new heights.

• Boldly ignoring squash ripeness: Using unripe spaghetti squash can lead to a tough texture. Choose squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, smooth skin.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long will dry it out. Check for doneness at around 7-10 minutes on medium heat, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your dishes can make them bland. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
• Not letting the dish cool before serving: Serving immediately can cause burns. Allow the dish to cool for about 5 minutes, so it’s safe to eat without sacrificing flavor.
• Failing to mix well: Not mixing the filling thoroughly can result in uneven flavors. Stir well so that each bite contains a perfect blend of ingredients.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect the overall taste. Opt for freshly grated parmesan for better melting and richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Ensure it’s cooled before placing it in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add bell peppers for extra crunch.

How do I know when spaghetti squash is done baking?

The spaghetti squash is done when you can easily pierce through the skin with a fork and the flesh is tender.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or another protein of your choice, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes a great side. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftovers are delicious! Reheat them as instructed above, or enjoy them cold as part of a lunch salad.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is both satisfying and versatile. This dish combines creamy flavors with nutritious ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices!

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Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach. This creamy and nutritious dish showcases the natural sweetness of spaghetti squash, complemented by tender chicken and vibrant spinach. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to special gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With its low-carb profile and rich, comforting flavors, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 cloves garlic
• 8 ounces fresh spinach
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Halve spaghetti squash lengthwise and remove seeds; brush cut sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30–35 minutes until tender.
4. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; cook cubed chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent; add garlic and spinach until wilted.
6. Add chicken broth and simmer; stir in cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan, thyme, red pepper flakes, and cooked chicken.
7. Once squash is baked, use a fork to create strands; mix half of the filling with strands.
8. Stuff each half with remaining filling; top with additional parmesan and bake for another 10–15 minutes until golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed half (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 90mg