Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on a classic Italian dish? Dive into the world of "Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Chicken"! This vibrant recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your health goals in check. With tender spaghetti squash standing in for traditional pasta, and succulent garlic chicken adding a burst of flavor, this dish is a perfect harmony of taste and nutrition. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a delightful meal to impress your guests. Don’t miss out on this culinary adventure that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the spaghetti squash roasts evenly and develops a nice flavor.
- Carefully slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy insides, creating a hollow space in each half.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the cut sides of the spaghetti squash and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the spaghetti squash in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Season the chicken with the remaining salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
- Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Combine the spaghetti squash strands with the garlic chicken mixture in the skillet. Toss gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil, mixing until well incorporated.
- Serve the spaghetti squash with garlic chicken warm, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your healthy and delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size. This ensures you’ll get plenty of delicious strands to enjoy.
- Perfect Roasting: Make sure to roast the squash cut side down on parchment paper. This helps in achieving a caramelized flavor while keeping it from sticking to the pan.
- Don’t Rush the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cook thoroughly and develop a golden color before adding the garlic. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to the chicken mixture for added nutrients and color.
- Make It Ahead: You can roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the chicken and combine for a quick meal.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese! They add a wonderful finish to the dish and elevate the flavors to new heights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
