Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious yet healthy dish that feels like a warm hug, this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe is just the ticket! Picture tender pieces of chicken mingling with spaghetti squash and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. It’s a delightful combination that makes for an elegant dinner while still being simple enough for those busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to make this dish over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that tastes gourmet.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and filling.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, even picky eaters will love it!
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep; reheat easily for lunch or dinner during the week.
• Versatile Flavor: The blend of Italian flavors will transport your taste buds straight to Tuscany!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right here.

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
• 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
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are a few variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition and color.
• Try different cheeses: Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to give your sauce a little kick!

How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Start by piercing the spaghetti squash with a knife. Microwave it until tender—this usually takes about 8-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can roast it in the oven if you prefer that method. Let it cool after cooking. This step is crucial because it softens the squash so you can shred it into those lovely spaghetti-like strands!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink. Don’t forget to set it aside afterward! Cooking the chicken first ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with minced garlic and shallots. Cook them until softened—this brings out their natural sweetness! Then stir in those sun-dried tomatoes; they add such rich flavor to our sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it bubble away for a minute. Once bubbly, turn off the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with baby spinach. It’s vital to turn off the heat before adding cheese so it melts perfectly without clumping! Return your cooked chicken back into this delightful mix.

Step 5: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Now that your squash has cooled down, cut it in half lengthwise and remove any seeds. Use a fork to shred its flesh into strands—this gives us our “spaghetti” base!

Step 6: Combine It All Together

Finally, fold those lovely spaghetti squash strands into your creamy sauce until they’re well-coated. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. And there you have it—a beautiful plate of Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash that’s ready to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Creating a delicious Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, spinach, and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the flavors significantly, making your meal tastier and more vibrant.
• Don’t rush cooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by giving it enough time in the skillet. This ensures tenderness and avoids any chewy texture.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Experiment with herbs: While Italian seasoning is great, try adding fresh basil or oregano for an extra burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Save leftovers wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld even more overnight, making for a delightful next-day lunch!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Grated lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brings a refreshing zing that balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients, making your plate even more appealing.
• Quinoa or brown rice: For an added fiber boost, serve alongside quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome grain option that complements the dish.

Enjoy crafting this comforting yet healthy meal, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it for quick and delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta and chicken mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• For easy serving, consider freezing in single portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

Can I use other vegetables in this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic and shallots for extra flavor.

How can I adjust the creaminess of the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace half of the heavy cream with low-sodium chicken broth. This will still give you a flavorful sauce without sacrificing too much creaminess.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes for this recipe?

No worries! You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with fresh cherry tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a similar taste profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe as much as I do! It’s not only healthy but also packed with flavors that remind you of sunny Italy. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!