Recipes With Spaghetti Squash And Chicken
Spaghetti squash is a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. When paired with chicken, spaghetti squash becomes a delicious and filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner. In this article, we will share with you some of our favorite recipes with spaghetti squash and chicken.
1. Spaghetti Squash and Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta casseroles. To make it, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup chopped broccoli
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until tender.
While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the chicken and broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Once the squash is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash strands into a large bowl. Add the vegetable and chicken mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the chicken broth over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
2. Spaghetti Squash and Chicken Stir Fry
This stir fry is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. To make it, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Microwave the squash for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash strands into a bowl and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, carrots, bell pepper, and onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Add the spaghetti squash strands to the skillet and toss to combine.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Serve hot.
3. Spaghetti Squash and Chicken Enchiladas
These enchiladas are a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic Mexican dish. To make them, you will need:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until tender.
While the squash is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Add the chicken, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Once the squash is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti squash strands into a large bowl. Add the vegetable and chicken mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place a spoonful of the chicken and spaghetti squash mixture in the center of a tortilla and roll it up tightly. Place the enchilada seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Conclusion
Spaghetti squash and chicken is a winning combination that is both healthy and delicious. Whether you prefer casseroles, stir fries, or enchiladas, there is a recipe out there that will satisfy your cravings. So why not give one of these recipes a try tonight?