Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

This Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is a delicious, lighter take on a classic favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it offers a healthy alternative without sacrificing flavor. The unique combination of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce served over spaghetti squash makes this dish both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for something to impress guests, this recipe fits the bill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Using spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta reduces carbs while still providing a filling meal.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of spices and cheeses creates a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the flavors to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals, this recipe easily adapts to different dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers or pre-preparing meals for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Foil
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly at high heat.
• Large skillet: Allows for easy sautéing of chicken and mixing with sauce ingredients without overcrowding.
• Foil: Helps keep the baking sheet clean and makes for easy cleanup after roasting.

Ingredients

This Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is a lighter, lower carb way to enjoy chicken Alfredo.

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 large spaghetti squash (about 5 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cups baby spinach
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 2 ounces low fat cream cheese
• 1/3 cup low fat milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup plain low fat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup shredded part skim mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley (optional)

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and spray it lightly with cooking oil.

Step 2: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

1. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
2. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
3. Season both halves generously with salt and pepper.
4. Place cut side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast in the oven until tender, about 35-45 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Cool and Prepare Squash Strands

After roasting, let the squash cool for about 10 minutes. Use a fork to scrape out the strands into a bowl.

Step 4: Prepare Chicken and Spinach Alfredo

1. In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Sprinkle this spice mixture over cut chicken pieces.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet; sauté until nearly cooked through.
5. Stir in baby spinach; cook until wilted.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. Lower heat slightly; add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk into the skillet.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well combined into a creamy sauce.
3. Add in spaghetti squash strands along with Greek yogurt; toss everything together until coated evenly.

Step 6: Melt Cheese Topping

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with a lid until melted (about 2-3 minutes) or place under broiler until lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your delightful Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo!

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

This Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo offers a delicious twist on classic comfort food. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish that will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the spaghetti squash Alfredo over a fresh bed of mixed greens for a refreshing crunch.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce and add a savory element to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for an aromatic finish that enhances the flavor profile.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide into individual containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.

With a Side Salad

• Complement your dish with a light side salad featuring seasonal vegetables to round out your meal.

How to Perfect Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

To ensure your Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is both delicious and satisfying, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe squash: Look for a spaghetti squash that is firm and has a rich color, indicating freshness.
• Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well; this adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
• Use low-fat alternatives wisely: Opt for low-fat cream cheese and milk to keep the dish lighter without compromising taste.
• Make it creamy: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend in more Greek yogurt or additional cream cheese as desired.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

To make your meal even more enjoyable, here are some side dishes that pair perfectly with Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple, vibrant side that adds nutritional value and complements the flavors of the main dish.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them until golden brown for a crunchy contrast.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, flavored with garlic for added richness.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can be served alongside or beneath the spaghetti squash for extra veggies.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette brings brightness to the table.
6. Crispy Kale Chips: Baked kale chips seasoned with salt provide a crunchy, healthy snack that pairs well with creamy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo, it’s important to avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the dish’s taste.
• Overcooking the spaghetti squash: Cooking the squash for too long can make it mushy. Monitor the roasting time closely, aiming for 35-45 minutes until tender.
• Not letting the squash cool: Scooping out hot spaghetti squash can be tricky and dangerous. Give it about 10 minutes to cool before handling.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: A rushed sauce can lead to lumps from the cream cheese and cheese not fully melting. Take your time stirring until everything is well combined.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Opting for cheap or low-fat substitutes may compromise flavor. Choose good quality cream cheese and cheeses for a richer taste.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping garnishes like parsley can make the dish look less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

• Place in an airtight freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo.

How do I prepare spaghetti squash?

Preparing spaghetti squash involves cutting it in half, removing seeds, seasoning, and roasting until tender. This creates the perfect base for your Alfredo dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep components like the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine before serving.

Is Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is lower in carbs and calories compared to traditional pasta dishes while still being rich in flavor thanks to nutritious ingredients.

What can I substitute for chicken?

If you prefer a different protein, turkey or even sautéed mushrooms can work well as alternatives in this Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo recipe.

How long does this meal take to cook?

The total time from prep to plate is about 60 minutes, making it great for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Can I customize this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap cheeses based on your preferences for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo offers a delightful blend of flavors while remaining light on carbs. This versatile recipe allows room for customization by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices. Give it a try; you might discover your new go-to meal!