Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. It combines the rich flavors of Tuscany with the lightness of spaghetti squash, making it a perfect low-carb and gluten-free meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises to impress your guests while being easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich sauce that coats the chicken and spaghetti squash beautifully.
• Low-Carb Delight: Spaghetti squash serves as a nutritious substitute for traditional pasta, making this dish ideal for anyone watching their carb intake.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows you to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Serving this dish garnished with fresh parsley makes it look as good as it tastes, perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash successfully, having the right tools will simplify your cooking process. Here are the essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Microwave-safe plate
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Fork
• Plate for serving

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without spillage.
• Knife: Essential for cutting both the spaghetti squash and chicken into bite-sized pieces safely.
• Fork: Used to scrape out spaghetti squash strands easily, providing the perfect texture for this dish.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 medium spaghetti squash

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (cut into bite-size pieces)
• salt
• pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Squash

Carefully pierce the spaghetti squash into the center with a knife several times. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 8-12 minutes or until tender. Allow it to cool while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 7 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm by tenting with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add remaining butter to the skillet along with minced garlic and shallot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they start to soften. Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and cook an additional minute. Pour in heavy cream, cooking until hot and bubbly, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Turn off heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and spinach until melted. Return cooked chicken along with any accumulated juices back into the pan.

Step 6: Prepare Spaghetti Squash

Once cool enough to handle, cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and scrape out strands using a fork.

Step 7: Mix Together

Stir spaghetti squash strands into creamy sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash in a large bowl for a cozy, shared meal. This approach encourages everyone to help themselves and enjoy the dish together.

Individual Plates

• For a more formal setting, plate the Tuscan chicken over spaghetti squash and garnish with fresh parsley. This presentation is perfect for impressing guests.

With Extra Parmesan

• Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love an extra cheesy flavor boost. It complements the creaminess of the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious cream sauce. This adds a comforting element to the meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance flavor and presentation by topping each serving with fresh basil or thyme. These herbs add freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

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How to Perfect Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

To make your Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash even better, consider these tips. They will help you achieve maximum flavor and texture every time you prepare this dish.

• Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Look for squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin. This ensures a better texture.
• Don’t rush cooking chicken: Cook until golden brown; this adds depth to the flavor. A well-cooked chicken enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Use quality sun-dried tomatoes: Opt for packed-in-oil sun-dried tomatoes as they add richness and moisture to your sauce.
• Add more greens: Consider adding kale or arugula along with spinach for added nutrients and color in your dish.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more Italian seasoning or garlic according to your preference for bold flavors.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This savory side adds crunch and pairs well with creamy sauces.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness that balances the richness of the main dish.
3. Zucchini Noodles: For an additional low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil and garlic.
4. Bruschetta: Fresh tomato bruschetta offers a burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with creamy dishes.
5. Sauteed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans keep it simple while providing vibrant color on your plate.
6. Caprese Salad: The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brings brightness to your meal, enhancing its Italian roots.
7. Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, making it an excellent complement to Tuscan chicken.
8. Herbed Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa side infused with herbs can offer texture without overshadowing the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Not Prepping the Squash Properly: Ensure you pierce the spaghetti squash before microwaving. This step prevents it from bursting during cooking.
• Skipping Seasoning: Always season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Overcooking Chicken: Monitor the chicken closely while cooking. It should be just cooked through, as overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Ignoring Cream Temperature: Add heavy cream when your skillet is hot but not boiling. This helps achieve the creamy texture without curdling.
• Forgetting to Coat the Squash: After shredding the squash, stir it into the cream sauce thoroughly. This ensures each strand is deliciously coated.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the dish cool before sealing to prevent condensation buildup.

Freezing Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider dividing portions for easier thawing later.

Reheating Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash.

What is Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash?

Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a creamy, flavorful dish that substitutes spaghetti squash for traditional pasta. It’s low carb and gluten-free.

How do I cook spaghetti squash?

To cook spaghetti squash, pierce it with a knife, then microwave it on high for 8-12 minutes or until tender.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is low in carbs and gluten-free while providing protein from chicken and nutrients from spinach.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is an irresistible blend of creamy flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile too—customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins! Give this delightful recipe a try; your dinner table will thank you!