Description
Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delightful culinary creation that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy garlic and cheese, paired with wholesome chicken and vibrant spinach. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious option perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The naturally sweet spaghetti squash serves as an ideal vessel for a rich filling, making every bite a tasty, low-carb experience without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 2 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces fresh spinach
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes until tender.
- While baking, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook cubed chicken until golden brown; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent, add garlic and cook briefly before adding spinach until wilted.
- Pour in chicken broth, then add cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes; stir until combined.
- Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional few minutes.
- Scrape out spaghetti strands from baked squash; mix some filling into them before stuffing each half.
- Fill each squash half with remaining mixture and top with extra parmesan.
- Return to oven for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed half
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor variations, consider mixing in your favorite herbs or spices. You can substitute chicken with turkey or plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.