As I set foot in my cozy kitchen, I couldn’t help but breathe in the aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes simmering together. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a beloved classic: Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Spaghetti Squash. This low-carb, gluten-free dish is not only a healthier alternative to pasta but also rich and creamy—perfect for those nights when you want to indulge without the guilt. With tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a lush cream sauce, it’s a delightfully satisfying option for family dinners or special occasions. Plus, it comes together in a snap, making weeknight cooking a breeze. Curious how such simple ingredients can create a dreamy Italian-inspired meal? Let’s dive in!
Why is this dish a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, perfect for anyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.
Flavor Explosion: With the rich creaminess and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, every bite bursts with vibrant Italian flavor.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins; options like turkey or shrimp can make it your own!
Healthy Twist: Enjoy all the comfort of a creamy dish while keeping it low-carb and gluten-free, letting you indulge guilt-free.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at family gatherings or dinner parties, and watch your guests rave about this deliciously unique twist on Italian cuisine. For an additional meal idea, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a delightful twist on flavors!
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – the star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked properly; substitute with turkey or shrimp for a tasty twist.
For the Spaghetti Squash
- Spaghetti Squash – a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, providing a delightful texture; cook until tender for best results.
For the Cream Sauce
- Cream – adds a rich, luscious texture to the sauce; replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Garlic – enhances the dish’s aromatics; fresh cloves impart the best flavor, though garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Onion – brings sweetness for an added dimension; shallots offer a milder taste if desired.
For the Vegetables
- Fresh Spinach – vibrant and nutrient-rich, making the dish colorful; swap with kale for a heartier option.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – give a sweet tang that complements the creaminess; fresh tomatoes can be used if you prefer a lighter taste.
Feel free to get creative with this Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe, personalizing it to suit your tastes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Start by piercing the spaghetti squash with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place it in the microwave and cook on high for 8-10 minutes until it’s tender and yields slightly when pressed. Carefully remove it from the microwave, slice it in half, scoop out the seeds, and use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in the hot skillet for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add more olive oil if needed. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. Then, stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts, about another 2 minutes, forming a delicious base for your creamy Tuscan Chicken.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, letting it mingle with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the cream and add the spaghetti squash, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is warmed through and creamy, ensuring that each bite of the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash is rich and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is thoroughly combined, it’s time to plate your dish! Transfer the creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash to serving plates, drizzled with any remaining sauce from the pan. Consider garnishing with extra spinach or freshly cracked pepper for a vibrant finish, inviting everyone to enjoy this scrumptious, healthy meal.
What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash?
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, pairing dishes can elevate your meal experience to another level.
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Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty favorite adds a satisfying crunch, perfect for wiping up any delicious creamy sauce left on your plate.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a hint of tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy Tuscan chicken, enhancing every bite. The garden salad offers a light, vibrant contrast that opens the palate.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies bring additional layers of flavor and texture to the meal. Their caramelized edges and natural sweetness aim to complement the savory notes of the chicken.
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Zucchini Noodles: For an extra low-carb twist, serve zucchini noodles alongside your creamy dish. They add a delightful crunch and fresh taste while being a great carry for the rich sauce.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the Mediterranean flavors of the chicken. The chilled glass invites a relaxed atmosphere, making your meal feel special.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light, refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after your rich meal. Its bright citrus notes provide the perfect ending to a wholesome, satisfying dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can cook the spaghetti squash up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the chicken can be sautéed and chilled for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet, adding the prepared sauce and squash to warm everything through. To maintain the dish’s creamy texture, avoid overcooking during reheating. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, healthy meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen by customizing this delightful recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream with coconut cream for a rich, creamy sauce without dairy. This change maintains the velvety texture while offering a subtle hint of sweetness.
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Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a slight sweetness, whereas turkey provides a lean alternative that still delivers heartiness.
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Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch and nutrients. These veggies not only enhance the color but also bring a fresh flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic twist. Adding herbs will elevate the Italian flavors, making each bite even more aromatic and flavorful.
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Spice It Up: Kick up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Just a little will infuse a warm, spicy kick without overpowering the dish’s creamy essence.
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Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts for delightful crunch. Their natural oils will enrich the dish while adding a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the cream sauce.
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Greener Goodness: Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green option. While spinach wilts quickly, kale offers a robust texture that holds up in the cream sauce.
For more exciting cooking ideas, try pairing this with my Buffalo Chicken Cottage for a satisfying twist or create a quick meal with Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps. Enjoy exploring these variations!
Expert Tips for Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
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Chicken Doneness: Ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy and avoid dryness.
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Tender Spaghetti Squash: Fully tenderize the spaghetti squash for the best texture; undercooked squash can be hard to scrape into strands.
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Cream Sauce Flavor: For a richer, more flavorful sauce, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
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Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies; bell peppers or zucchini add color and extra nutrients to the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash.
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Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently for a quick meal!
How to Store and Freeze Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and the cream sauce is perfectly creamy.
Portioning: Consider portioning out individual servings before freezing for easy meal prep on busy days!
Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe FAQs
What type of spaghetti squash should I use?
Look for a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth skin and no dark spots or soft spots. The best ones have a bright yellow or pale orange hue. If it has any blemishes or dark spots all over, it’s best to avoid those.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn!
Can I freeze Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or oven for best results.
What can I do if my chicken is dry?
If your chicken turns out dry, don’t worry! You can add a splash of chicken broth or extra cream to the dish while reheating. This will help to moisten the chicken and blend it with the creamy sauce. Also, try cooking it just until it’s done next time; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to keep it juicy.
Does this dish cater to any dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash recipe is gluten-free and low-carb, making it suitable for various dietary needs. If you’re serving someone with dairy allergies, simply replace the cream with coconut cream, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free alternative!
Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?
Certainly! You can use turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cooks faster, while turkey might take a bit longer to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked. Enjoy customizing it to your preferences!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pierce the spaghetti squash with a fork and cook in the microwave on high for 8-10 minutes until tender. Slice in half, scoop out seeds, and scrape flesh into strands.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, season chicken with salt and pepper, and sauté for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add more olive oil if needed, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet, add cream and spaghetti squash, stirring to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Plate the dish and drizzle with remaining sauce. Garnish with extra spinach or cracked pepper as desired.
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