Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table while being low in carbs and gluten-free. This creamy and cheesy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and spaghetti squash creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich sauce that envelops the chicken and squash beautifully.
- Low Carb Option: This dish replaces traditional pasta with spaghetti squash, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Flavor: The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning adds depth to the dish, making it flavorful yet comforting.
- Family-Friendly: This meal appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy it.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this wonderful recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep skillet
- Microwave-safe plate
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while providing enough space for the sauce ingredients.
- Microwave-safe plate: Allows you to easily cook the spaghetti squash without needing an oven.
- Knife: Essential for cutting the spaghetti squash safely before cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (cut into bite-size pieces)
- salt
- pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 shallot (minced)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, julienne cut)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 ounces baby spinach
- fresh parsley (optional, garnish)
How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Carefully pierce the spaghetti squash into the center with a knife several times. Place on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 8-12 minutes or until tender. Let cool while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
Cook until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 7 minutes.
Remove from pan and tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining butter to the pan along with minced garlic and shallot.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until they just start to soften.
Step 5: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet.
Cook an additional minute until heated through.
Step 6: Make It Creamy
Pour in heavy cream into the skillet with aromatics.
Cook until hot and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Spinach
Turn off heat.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach until well combined.
Add back cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices.
Step 8: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Once cool, cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
Remove seeds and scrape out strands using a fork.
Step 9: Combine Everything Together
Stir spaghetti squash into cream sauce until evenly coated.
Step 10: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash!
How to Serve Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
Serving Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash can elevate your dining experience. This dish is creamy and flavorful, making it perfect for a family meal or special occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your presentation.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and Parmesan cheese balance the richness of the main dish.
Complement with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted bread smothered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Herbed Focaccia – A soft focaccia topped with herbs offers an Italian touch.
Add a Splash of Wine
- Chardonnay – A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Sangiovese – This red wine pairs well with chicken dishes, enhancing the Italian essence.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for added flavor and color.
- Chopped Chives – These add a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
To ensure your Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs will amplify the flavors in your dish.
- Don’t overcook the chicken – Aim for juicy chicken by cooking until just done; it should be tender and moist.
- Choose the right spaghetti squash – Look for a firm squash without blemishes for best results.
- Adjust creaminess to taste – Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
- Experiment with seasonings – Adding extra Italian herbs can boost flavor; try oregano or thyme.
- Let it rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld the flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
To create a well-rounded meal, consider these tasty side dishes that pair wonderfully with Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon provides a fresh contrast.
- Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta offers great texture.
- Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can serve as an additional low-carb option.
- Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers make a fun appetizer.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil delivers classic Italian flair.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring the squash cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the spaghetti squash can affect texture. Always test for tenderness by piercing it with a fork.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season chicken before cooking can lead to blandness. Use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning generously.
- Skipping the resting period: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking retains its juices. Don’t rush this step; cover it with foil instead.
- Using low-quality sun-dried tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can dull the flavor of your dish. Opt for packed in oil varieties for a richer taste.
- Neglecting to stir in spinach properly: If you don’t mix in the spinach well, it won’t wilt correctly. Stir until evenly incorporated into the sauce.
- Rushing the cream sauce: Cooking the cream too quickly can cause it to separate. Heat gently and let it bubble slowly for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash that might help you.
How do I make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash healthier?
You can use less cream or substitute it with almond milk for a lighter version. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini also boosts nutrition.
Can I use regular pasta instead of spaghetti squash?
Yes, if you’re not following a low-carb diet, traditional pasta is a great alternative that pairs well with this creamy sauce.
What flavors pair well with Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash?
Herbs like basil or thyme complement this dish beautifully. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick too!
How long does it take to prepare Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash?
The total time is about 40 minutes including prep and cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner!
Final Thoughts
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash offers a rich, comforting meal that’s also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a delicious low-carb dish that beautifully combines tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and the unique texture of spaghetti squash. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, providing a comforting meal without the carbs associated with traditional pasta. Rich in flavor from sun-dried tomatoes and Italian herbs, this dish is sure to win over everyone at the table. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh spinach
- salt
- pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 shallot (minced)
- fresh parsley (optional, garnish)
Instructions
- Pierce the spaghetti squash several times and microwave on high for 8-12 minutes until tender. Let it cool.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat and cook chicken until no longer pink (about 7 minutes). Remove and keep warm.
- Sauté garlic and shallots in the same skillet for 1-2 minutes.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and heat until bubbly (1-2 minutes).
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach; add back cooked chicken.
- Once squash is cool, cut in half, remove seeds, and scrape out strands with a fork.
- Combine spaghetti squash with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
