Description
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is a hearty, low-carb dish that features tender chicken cooked in a creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, served over tender strands of spaghetti squash. This flavorful meal brings classic Tuscan flavors to a light and nutritious plate.
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed recommended)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.
- While squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Slice cooked chicken and add to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Use a fork to shred the spaghetti squash strands and divide among plates. Top with Tuscan chicken and creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
- Add mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra veggies.
- Substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp.
- Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
- Use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting and stovetop cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg