If you’re looking for a low-carb, flavor-packed meal that doesn’t skimp on creamy comfort, this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for you. It delivers all the richness of a classic Tuscan dish while keeping things light and nutritious with spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
- Healthy and Low-Carb: Swapping traditional pasta for spaghetti squash makes this meal a guilt-free indulgence.
- Flavor-Packed: Italian herbs, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes give this dish an incredible depth of flavor.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under an hour.
- Great for Meal Prep: The leftovers store well, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or next-day lunch.
- 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
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and julienned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 ounces baby spinach
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Large knife (for cutting spaghetti squash)
- Microwave or oven (for cooking the squash)
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Tongs (for handling chicken)
1. Cook the Spaghetti Squash
- Pierce the spaghetti squash with a knife a few times.
- Microwave on high for 8-12 minutes until tender, or roast in the oven at 400°F for 40-50 minutes.
- Let it cool, then cut it in half, remove the seeds, and shred the flesh with a fork to create spaghetti-like strands.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter.
- Add garlic and shallot, cooking until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and spinach.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
5. Combine & Serve
- Stir in the shredded spaghetti squash, ensuring it gets fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Shortcuts & Time Savers
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Cook spaghetti squash in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk.
Delicious Variations
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic and shallots for extra umami flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this dish.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce, the spaghetti squash can become watery when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Best Sides to Serve With This Dish
- Garlic Green Beans – A simple, fresh side dish that complements the creamy sauce.
- Caprese Salad – The fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes add a light contrast to the richness of the dish.
Best Drinks to Pair
- White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay enhances the creamy and savory flavors.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for olive oil, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
What can I use instead of spaghetti squash?
Try zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles for another low-carb option.
How do I know when spaghetti squash is done cooking?
It should be fork-tender, and the flesh should easily pull apart into strands.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! Store the sauce and spaghetti squash separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland. It’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
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