If you’re craving a wholesome, comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing, this Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender roasted spaghetti squash strands with a savory filling of garlicky chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy cheeses that melt together into a magical marriage of flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe hits all the right notes of taste, texture, and color.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, adding richness, and making this dish a stunning feast for both the eyes and the palate.
- 1 medium spaghetti squash: The star vegetable that transforms into stringy, pasta-like strands when cooked, providing a low-carb base.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps tenderize both the squash and chicken while creating a beautiful golden color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors throughout the dish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: A lean protein that soaks up garlic and seasoning perfectly, adding substance.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers bold aromatic flavor that complements every bite.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Packs in vibrant color, a touch of earthiness, and a boost of nutrients.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty tang and melts beautifully into the filling.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy softness and balances out the sharper cheeses and seasonings.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs that ties the entire dish together with warmth and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A lively green contrast to finish the dish with freshness and visual appeal.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the spaghetti squash lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds and innards to create two hollow “boats.” Drizzle each half with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet, and roast for 30 to 40 minutes until the flesh is fork-tender and ready to be fluffed into strands—this slow roasting locks in sweetness and softens the flesh perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your diced chicken, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and slightly golden. This step is key for achieving juicy chicken pieces that carry the garlic and cheese flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
Next, stir in your minced garlic, letting it cook just long enough—1 to 2 minutes—for its irresistible aroma to fill your kitchen. Then, toss in the fresh spinach and simmer until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cook helps maintain spinach’s bright green color and fresh taste.
Step 4: Mix the Filling
Combine the sautéed chicken and spinach mixture in a bowl with Parmesan cheese, creamy ricotta, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mixing thoroughly ensures every bite is perfectly balanced between savory, cheesy, and herbaceous notes.
Step 5: Prepare the Squash for Stuffing
Once roasted, flip the spaghetti squash halves so the cut side is up. Use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, filling the “boats” with that delightful texture. Fluffing the squash this way creates the perfect canvas for your delicious filling.
Step 6: Stuff and Bake
Spoon the chicken and spinach mixture generously into each squash half. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This finishing bake melds the flavors beautifully and melts the cheeses into a gooey, irresistible topping.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After baking, remove the stuffed squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich filling wonderfully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley as a garnish brightens the dish visually and enhances its fresh flavor. For an extra touch, you could also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or drizzle a bit of good quality olive oil over the top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, but pairing it with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread creates a well-rounded dining experience. Roasted vegetables or a light tomato soup also complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the stuffed squash right in its shell, making each half a rustic personal bowl. For a fun twist, you could scoop out the filling and toss it into small ramekins topped with breadcrumbs for a gratin effect, then broil until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the filling and squash together preserves the flavors and textures well without drying out.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely if you want to save portions for later. Wrap individual halves tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Using the oven helps keep the squash tender and the cheese creamy, much more than microwaving which can sometimes dry it out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan and ricotta offer great texture and flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella for a stretchier melt or feta for a tangy punch. Just keep the balance so it complements the garlic and spinach.
Is spaghetti squash difficult to prepare?
Not at all! Cutting it might seem intimidating at first, but using a sharp knife and taking your time will do the trick. Roasting softens the squash to enable easy scraping into spaghetti-like strands, making it surprisingly manageable.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, feel free to swap chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How spicy will the red pepper flakes make the dish?
They add just a subtle kick if you use the suggested amount. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the flakes slightly, or omit them entirely for a milder flavor suitable for all palates.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe stores well and tastes just as delicious reheated. It’s perfect for making ahead and enjoying quick, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—full of love, flavor, and wholesome ingredients. I promise once you try it, its vibrant colors and satisfying layers will have you coming back for seconds. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 20m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is a delicious and healthy meal that features tender roasted spaghetti squash filled with a savory mixture of sautéed chicken, garlic, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of red pepper flakes, this dish is both comforting and nutritious, ideal for a wholesome weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Squash
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Chicken and Filling
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the spaghetti squash.
- Prepare the Squash: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and stringy insides with a spoon to create space for the filling.
- Season and Roast Squash: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil inside each half and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Cook the Chicken: While the squash roasts, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Add Garlic and Spinach: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and spinach mixture with Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Prepare Squash for Stuffing: When the spaghetti squash is roasted and cool enough to handle, flip the halves cut-side up and use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
- Fill the Squash: Spoon the chicken and spinach mixture into each squash half, mounding it generously to fill the cavity.
- Bake Filled Squash: Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the filling is heated through and the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- To easily cut the spaghetti squash, microwave it for 3-4 minutes beforehand to slightly soften the skin.
- For additional flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before the final baking step.
- Leftover stuffed squash can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh spinach for best results; frozen spinach can increase moisture and alter texture.
