Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a comforting yet healthy dish that dazzles with flavor, the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces, a luscious creamy sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, and the delightful texture of spaghetti squash that makes for a deliciously satisfying low-carb alternative to pasta. Every bite feels like a warm hug, with that perfect balance of savory, creamy, and lightly herbed notes transporting you straight to the heart of Tuscany.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe lies in its simplicity, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a taste that feels luxurious yet wholesome. These components come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that brighten your plate and your day.

• 1 medium spaghetti squash: This vegetable serves as a perfect low-carb spaghetti substitute that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (cut into bite size pieces): Tender protein that soaks up all the delicious seasonings and creaminess.
• Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing every flavor in the dish.
• Pepper: Adds just the right touch of heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings a rustic Mediterranean note.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the garlic and shallots.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Provides aroma and sharp, savory undertones.
• 1 shallot (minced): Offers subtle sweetness and a delicate onion flavor.
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, julienne cut): Intensely flavorful, they add vibrant color and a slightly tangy sweetness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, decadent sauce that ties everything together.
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Infuses a nutty, salty richness that rounds out the sauce.
• 3 ounces baby spinach: Adds freshness, a hint of earthiness, and a pop of green.
• Fresh parsley (optional, garnish): A bright, herbal finishing touch that lifts the entire dish.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Squash

Begin by carefully piercing the spaghetti squash several times in the center with a knife. This helps steam the squash evenly and tenderize it quickly. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Let it cool while you prepare the chicken. This quick method saves time and keeps the squash moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook it until it loses its pink color and is cooked through, which usually takes about 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm by tenting it with aluminum foil. This step ensures juicy chicken with a lovely herby crust.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Into the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, and shallot. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and just softened. Then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute to release their sweet, tangy aroma. This combination forms the heart of your sauce, layering savory and slightly sweet notes that define the Tuscan character of the dish.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle bubble over medium heat for about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the fresh baby spinach. The spinach wilts in the residual heat, and the Parmesan melts smoothly, enriching the sauce with creamy texture and a savory depth.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

Add the cooked chicken along with any juices back into the skillet with the cream sauce and spinach, stirring gently to coat all the pieces. Meanwhile, once the spaghetti squash has cooled enough to handle, slice it in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands. Toss these strands directly into the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated and infused with that creamy Tuscan flavor.

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add an herbal brightness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish just before serving. This garnish not only adds a lovely contrast in color but also gives a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the cream sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

While the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe can shine as a full meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables can add textural variety and a refreshing complement. Garlic bread also pairs well for those wanting a comforting, carb-friendly option alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the dish directly in the spaghetti squash halves for a rustic look that’s sure to impress your guests. Alternatively, plating the chicken and squash atop a bed of sautéed kale or alongside grilled asparagus adds color and enhances the meal’s healthful appeal. This recipe’s versatility invites you to get creative!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dish chilled promptly after serving to preserve freshness and flavor. It’s a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce may separate slightly when frozen, you can freeze this dish for up to a month if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Stirring well during reheating will help bring back the creaminess and texture of the original dish.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm the sauce evenly without curdling the cream. Adding a splash of cream or broth during reheating can revive the sauce’s smooth consistency if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I bake the spaghetti squash instead of microwaving it?

Absolutely! Baking the spaghetti squash in the oven at 400°F for about 30 to 40 minutes yields a slightly nuttier flavor and firmer texture, though microwaving is quicker and just as effective for this recipe.

Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which complements the creamy Tuscan sauce nicely. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

You can try using half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture and richness will be less decadent. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a small amount of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

What can I use if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If sun-dried tomatoes aren’t on hand, roasted red peppers work as a tasty substitute. While the flavor is a bit sweeter and less tangy, they still bring great color and depth to the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

Definitely! The spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, and combined with the chicken and creamy sauce, this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe fits well within many low-carb and keto meal plans.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. Its simple ingredients and straightforward process make it a perfect recipe to return to again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends with little fuss. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be thanking yourself for this Tuscan-inspired comfort classic in no time!

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