Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Published:

by Maria

Leave a Comment

Nothing beats the enticing aroma of Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash w/ Chicken & Spinach wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender strands of spaghetti squash mingling with garlicky goodness, creamy parmesan, and succulent chicken, all wrapped up in a warm hug of spinach. Parmesan Pesto Roasted Potatoes It’s comfort food that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to whip up. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Chicken Fried Rice recipe.

Jump to:

This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends at a gathering. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds. You’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also enjoy the fun of creating something beautiful and delicious.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The ease of preparation makes this dish a weeknight favorite for busy families. Bursting with flavors from garlic and parmesan, it’s simply irresistible. Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it stands out on any table. Versatile enough to adapt with different proteins or veggies based on your preference. [/info_box]

My family couldn’t stop raving about this dish when I made it for a dinner party last month. Who knew healthy could taste so indulgent?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Spaghetti Squash: Look for a medium-sized squash that feels heavy; it should have a firm skin.

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 breasts, but adjust according to your crowd.

  • Fresh Spinach: Choose vibrant green leaves; they add color and nutrition to the dish.

  • Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic punch; avoid jarred versions if possible.

  • Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for optimal flavor; pre-grated can lose some of its zest.

  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it adds richness and depth.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skimp on flavor!

  • Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme elevates the overall taste profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Bake Until Tender: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.

Cook the Chicken: While the squash bakes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. You might also enjoy this Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet recipe.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach: Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—then toss in fresh spinach until wilted.

Mix Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Combine shredded chicken with sautéed spinach, grated parmesan cheese, and additional seasonings if desired.

Stuff the Squash**: Gently fluff up the insides of baked spaghetti squash with a fork to create strands. Spoon in the chicken-spinach mixture generously into each half until overflowing.

Now you’re ready to serve! Pop those stuffed beauties back into the oven for an additional 10 minutes to melt any extra cheese or crisp up the top if you’d like.

And there you have it—a plateful of Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash w/ Chicken & Spinach! It’s a delightful combination that won’t just nourish your body but also fill your heart with joy as you gather around the table with loved ones. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Enjoy every savory bite!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash w/ Chicken & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines health and flavor. The comforting aroma of garlic mingling with Parmesan will have everyone rushing to the table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies! [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the spaghetti squash for 45 minutes until tender. While it’s baking, sauté chicken and spinach on the stovetop for optimal flavor infusion. This sequence ensures everything is piping hot and ready to serve at the same time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella, creating your own signature stuffed spaghetti squash masterpiece.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, keeping that delicious garlic aroma alive!

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For perfect garlic Parmesan stuffed spaghetti squash, always taste as you go; seasoning makes all the difference. Make sure your chicken is cooked thoroughly before mixing in other ingredients. Lastly, don’t rush the roasting process; a little patience results in better flavor and texture. [/info_box]

I recall making this dish for my family one Sunday afternoon. The joy on their faces when they first tasted it was priceless, proving that healthy meals can be deliciously satisfying too.

FAQs

FAQ

What is spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash is a unique vegetable that turns into noodle-like strands when cooked.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or beans for protein.

How do I know when the squash is done cooking?

The squash is done when you can easily pierce it with a fork and it feels tender.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Chicken & Spinach


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in the savory delight of Garlic Parmesan Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, featuring tender strands of spaghetti squash, juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and a rich garlic-parmesan filling. This gourmet comfort dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its aromatic flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them coming back for seconds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Drizzle cut sides with olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
  2. Place squash cut-side down on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes until tender.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook seasoned chicken breasts in olive oil for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest before shredding.
  4. Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for 1 minute; add spinach until wilted.
  5. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with sautéed spinach and parmesan cheese.
  6. Fluff baked spaghetti squash with a fork and fill each half generously with the chicken-spinach mixture. Return to oven for an additional 10 minutes to melt the cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed half (about 350g)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star