Chicken Spaghetti Squash Recipe
Chicken spaghetti squash is a flavorful dish combining tender chicken with roasted spaghetti squash, creating a healthy and satisfying meal. Pairing it well can truly elevate the experience
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 50 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 295 kcal
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash weighing 2 ½ to 3 pounds
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil plus additional for roasting the squash
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan Pecorino Romano, or a blend (2 ounces total)
- ½ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley including tender stems
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
First, let’s tackle the spaghetti squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. This preparation helps to roast the squash beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the squash is roasting, heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. This creates a deliciously caramelized crust, enhancing the chicken's overall flavor.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes. After that, shred it using two forks. It should fall apart with ease. Set aside, and don't forget to savor those heavenly scents wafting through your kitchen.
Step 5: Mix It Up
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant. Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet, followed by the lemon juice, zest, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Stir everything together on medium heat, so those flavors meld harmoniously.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the squash is done roasting, take it out and let it cool slightly. Use a fork to scrape out the strands into a large serving bowl.
Pour the chicken mixture over the squash and sprinkle with the grated cheese. Toss gently to incorporate everything.
- Choose a Firm Squash: Make sure to select a squash that feels heavy for its size, with smooth, unblemished skin.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven, the baking time for the squash may vary. Check for tenderness with a fork.
- Don’t Skip the Butter and Olive Oil: This combo helps to achieve that coveted flavor and texture for the chicken.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like thyme or basil, depending on your palate.
- Add More Veggies: Want to amp up the nutrition? Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the chicken mixture.
Serving: 214gCalories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 8.7gSaturated Fat: 2.6gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 495mgFiber: 3gSugar: 9g
Keyword Chicken Spaghetti Squash Recipe