Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and fresh spinach. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. The combination of spaghetti squash and creamy filling creates a satisfying yet healthy meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of garlic, parmesan, and chicken delivers a mouthwatering taste that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices.
• Healthy Option: With wholesome ingredients like chicken and spinach, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Low-Carb Delight: Spaghetti squash serves as a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach, gather the following tools. These will help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly in the oven.
• Sharp knife: Essential for cutting through the tough skin of the spaghetti squash safely.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients to create a flavorful filling for the squash.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining all creamy filling ingredients seamlessly.

Ingredients

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach! So delicious & easy!

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).

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

• Cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
• Remove seeds from each half.
• Brush cut sides with olive oil.
• Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Bake the Spaghetti Squash

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
• Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add remaining butter.
• Cook diced onion until translucent.
• Add minced garlic; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Broth

• Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
• Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.

Step 7: Create Creamy Filling

• Add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, grated parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and optional red pepper flakes to skillet.
• Mix well until combined.
• Return cooked chicken to skillet; mix thoroughly.
• Stir in half of the chopped parsley; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Squash with Filling

Once baked, use a fork to scrape out spaghetti-like strands from each squash half. Mix some strands with the creamy filling.

Step 9: Fill Squash Halves

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

Step 10: Final Bake

Return filled squash halves to oven; bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 11: Serve

Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with remaining parsley before enjoying this delicious dish!

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

Serving Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is all about enhancing the experience with delicious accompaniments. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

For a Cozy Dinner

• Warm Bread: Serve with crusty bread, perfect for dipping into any leftover creamy sauce.
• Garlic Butter Rolls: Fluffy rolls brushed with garlic butter complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Container-Friendly: Portion out leftovers in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
• Freezer-Friendly: This dish can be frozen in individual servings, making weeknight dinners effortless.

Pairing with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the stuffed squash.
• Caesar Salad: The classic Caesar salad pairs well with its creamy dressing, enhancing the overall meal.

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

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spinach and high-quality parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If your squash is larger, increase baking time slightly to ensure it’s tender enough.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking to ensure you achieve your desired flavor profile.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together even more.

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

Enhance your meal by pairing Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement its flavors.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until golden provide a hearty, nutritious side.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and texture, making it a balanced addition.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a crunchy contrast that pairs well.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw introduces brightness that cuts through the creaminess of the main dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or grains create an eye-catching side option.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges provide a sweet contrast to savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before placing your spaghetti squash inside.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook until it’s golden brown, and remember it will continue to cook in the oven.

• Ignoring the Squash Texture: If you don’t bake the squash long enough, it won’t be tender and easy to shred. Bake until fork-tender for the best texture.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Poor-quality cheese can affect flavor. Opt for freshly grated parmesan for richer taste and better melting properties.

• Skipping Garnishes: Neglecting fresh herbs or extra cheese on top can lead to a lackluster dish. Always finish with fresh parsley or additional parmesan for that perfect touch.

• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a bland dish. Always sample your filling before stuffing the squash.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the squash right before baking.

How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done?

The squash is done when it’s fork-tender. You should be able to easily shred it into strands with a fork.

What other ingredients can I add to Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach?

Feel free to customize by adding other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or spices like Italian seasoning for extra flavor!

Is this recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with nutrients from spinach and provides lean protein from chicken while being lower in carbs than traditional pasta dishes.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of parmesan?

Yes! You can substitute mozzarella or cheddar cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish offers a comforting meal that suits various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting flavors according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; you might find it becomes a new favorite!