Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delightful dish that combines comfort and health in one delicious package. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep! The unique blend of flavors from garlic, parmesan, and fresh spinach makes this dish stand out while still being low-carb and gluten-free. Enjoy a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The creamy garlic parmesan sauce paired with tender chicken and spinach creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in just over an hour.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the squash and spinach, it’s a guilt-free choice for dinner.
• Versatile Meal: This stuffed spaghetti squash can be served as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for leftovers or preparing ahead of time for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach, gather your tools before you start cooking. Being organized will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Spoon (for scraping seeds)
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly and preventing spills.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for safely cutting through the tough spaghetti squash skin.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken, garlic, onions, and spinach to create that rich flavor.

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). This ensures that your spaghetti squash cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

• Cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
• Remove the seeds using a spoon.
• Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Bake the Squash

Place the seasoned squash cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until tender.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

While the squash is baking:
In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown. Set aside once done.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 6: Make the Creamy Filling

Pour in chicken broth to bring to a simmer.
Add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, thyme, and red pepper flakes if desired:
Stir until well combined.
Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together.
Sprinkle in half of chopped parsley before letting it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Combine with Squash

Once your spaghetti squash is baked:
Use a fork to create spaghetti-like strands within each half.
Mix some of this creamy filling with the strands.

Step 8: Fill Squash Halves

Fill each half of the spaghetti squash with the remaining chicken mixture:
Top with extra parmesan cheese.

Step 9: Final Bake

Return filled squash halves to oven. Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Let cool for about five minutes after baking:
Garnish with remaining parsley just before serving.

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

Serving Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delightful experience. This dish is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad with mixed greens complements the rich flavors of the stuffed squash. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for a satisfying crunch. This can help soak up any delicious sauce from the filling.

Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished dish adds a sweet tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory ingredients.

Garnish with Extra Herbs

• Fresh herbs like basil or chives can elevate the presentation and add another layer of flavor to your garlic parmesan stuffed spaghetti squash.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for a colorful and nutritious side that pairs well with the main dish.

Offer a Choice of Protein

• For those who love variety, consider offering grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms on the side as an alternative protein option.

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

To achieve the perfect Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is both flavorful and beautifully presented.

• Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Select squashes that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin. This ensures a sweeter flavor when cooked.

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

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely and provides a vibrant color compared to frozen options. It enhances both taste and texture in your dish.

• Don’t skip the cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged options for better melting quality and richer flavor.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to modify salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice levels.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your stuffed squash to cool for about five minutes after baking helps set the filling and makes it easier to serve.

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

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s great for scooping up any leftover filling from your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the warm squash.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a nutty flavor that complements the savory stuffing while adding great texture.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa tossed with herbs offers a nutritious grain side that fits well with this meal.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective; steamed broccoli adds vibrant color along with health benefits.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil give a light, refreshing touch that balances out the richness of the main dish.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can provide additional veggies without adding too many carbs.
8. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in your stuffed squash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls is key to success. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unripe squash: Selecting spaghetti squash that is too young can lead to a bland taste. Always choose squash that feels heavy and has a hard shell.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for a golden brown color and remove it from heat as soon as it’s done.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste your mixture before filling the squash and adjust spices accordingly.
• Skipping the fork technique: Failing to create spaghetti-like strands in the squash can result in a less enjoyable texture. Use a fork to scrape out the insides thoroughly.
• Ignoring baking times: Not paying attention to baking times could leave your squash undercooked or mushy. Set a timer and check for tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Allow cooling completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the mixture.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is fully cooked?

The squash is done when you can easily pierce the skin with a fork, and the flesh should be tender enough to shred into strands.

What other proteins can I add?

You can substitute chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins for variety.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give this healthy comfort food recipe a try; it’s sure to delight your taste buds!