Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Meet the Basil Chicken Spaghetti Squash with Broccoli—a culinary masterpiece that combines the heartiness of chicken, the freshness of basil, and the unique texture of spaghetti squash! This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for those who crave comfort food without the guilt. In just 40 minutes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a wholesome dish that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your spaghetti squash cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife and be cautious as the skin can be tough. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy bits from the center using a spoon.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the cut sides of the squash and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the spaghetti squash in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily scraped into strands with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the broccoli. In a medium pot, bring water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Blanch the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine the cooked and shredded chicken breasts with the chicken broth over medium heat. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Add the blanched broccoli and chopped fresh basil to the skillet with the chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Using a fork, scrape the flesh to create spaghetti-like strands.
- Incorporate the spaghetti squash strands into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve the Basil Chicken Spaghetti Squash warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: When selecting your spaghetti squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This ensures you get the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Make sure to roast the spaghetti squash until it’s tender. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect spaghetti-like strands. If it’s undercooked, you won’t get the right consistency.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning will enhance the flavors of the chicken, broccoli, and basil, making your dish truly irresistible.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. This dish is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look even more appetizing.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can roast the spaghetti squash and prepare the chicken mixture in advance, then combine them when you're ready to eat.Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor every bite of this delightful meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg
