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Chicken Spaghetti Squash copycat Recipe

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
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 295 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

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 2: Roast the Squash

  • Now, pop that squash in the oven for about 40-45 minutes. You want it tender enough to scrape into strands with a fork. While that's baking, we can turn our attention to the chicken.

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.

Notes

  • 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.

Nutrition

Serving: 214gCalories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 8.7gSaturated Fat: 2.6gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 495mgFiber: 3gSugar: 9g
Keyword Chicken Spaghetti Squash Recipe
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