Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, creamy dish that is both healthy and satisfying, you have to try this Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo. It beautifully combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and the unique texture of roasted spaghetti squash all coated in a luscious alfredo sauce without the heaviness of traditional pasta dishes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a lighter take on classic alfredo or just want a colorful, wholesome dinner, Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but pack a punch when combined. Each one is essential — from the spaghetti squash that offers a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, to the chicken which adds protein and richness, and spinach bringing that perfect pop of color and earthiness. The creamy cheese mixture rounds everything off with velvety texture and savory depth.

• 1 large spaghetti squash: Acts as the perfect low-carb base with a naturally stringy texture that mimics pasta.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding a lovely smoothness to the dish.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and heartiness in tender bite-sized pieces.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant blend of herbs for classic Italian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Contributes an earthy, slightly bitter note that complements the creamy sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a mellow garlic aroma without overpowering.
• 3 cups baby spinach: Brings freshness, vibrant green color, and a little nutritional boost.
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing flavors.
• 2 ounces low fat cream cheese: Creates a luscious and creamy base for the alfredo sauce without extra heaviness.
• 1/3 cup low fat milk (or milk of choice): Helps smooth out the sauce to a silky consistency.
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Infuses umami and salty tang to elevate the sauce.
• 1/4 cup plain low fat Greek yogurt: Adds a subtle tang and creaminess while boosting protein.
• 1/2 cup shredded part skim mozzarella cheese: Used as a melty, golden topping to finish the dish perfectly.
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal note and lovely color contrast when serving.

How to Make Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Step 1: Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and lightly spraying it with cooking oil — this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Season the cut sides with salt and pepper to enhance natural sweetness and depth during roasting. Place the squash cut side down on the baking sheet and roast until tender, which typically takes about 35 to 45 minutes depending on the size of your squash. Once roasted, let it cool for 10 minutes before carefully scraping the flesh with a fork to reveal those beautiful spaghetti-like strands. This step is key to the dish’s wonderful texture, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Spinach Alfredo

While your squash is roasting, combine the Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and garlic powder in a small bowl — this mix will give the chicken a fragrant, vibrant flavor. Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them with the spice blend, adding salt and fresh ground pepper for balance. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the chicken. Sauté until the pieces are nearly cooked through but still juicy. Then, toss in the baby spinach and cook just until it wilts, which takes only a couple of minutes. This step adds a lovely hint of green freshness and nutrients to the dish.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce and Combine

Lower the heat to medium and add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and milk to the skillet with the chicken and spinach. Stir gently but continuously until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Next, fold in the spaghetti squash strands, followed by the plain Greek yogurt. Toss everything together so that each strand is lovingly coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce. This combination makes the dish deliciously rich, yet light enough to keep you feeling great afterwards.

Step 4: Melt the Mozzarella and Finish

To add a melted mozzarella topping with just the right amount of golden color, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the skillet mixture. You can either cover the pan with a lid for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts or pop the skillet briefly under the broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning but embrace that delightful bubbly top when it happens. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and a little herbaceous brightness. Now your Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can take this dish from great to extraordinary. Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely herbaceous note and makes your dish visually inviting. You can also sprinkle a little additional Parmesan cheese or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving to enhance the flavors further and add a subtle textural contrast.

Side Dishes

Because this Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is already rich and filling, pairing it with a light, crisp side works beautifully. Consider a bright green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also complements this meal wonderfully, perfect for sopping up any leftover alfredo sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the spaghetti squash right in its own roasted shell: carefully fill each half with the creamy chicken and spinach mixture and top with mozzarella. This creates an appealing rustic presentation and makes for easy portioning and cleanup. Alternatively, serve individual portions plated with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle hint of heat and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the dish contains dairy, it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. However, note that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the spinach and squash, so thaw and reheat gently for the best result.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help refresh the consistency of the sauce if it thickens too much. Alternatively, reheat in a microwave in short intervals, stirring to ensure even warming without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use other types of squash instead of spaghetti squash?

Spaghetti squash’s unique stringy texture helps mimic pasta, making it ideal for this recipe. But if you want to experiment, you might try roasted zucchini noodles or even shredded butternut squash; just remember the texture and cooking times will differ.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely! Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo is a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes because spaghetti squash is naturally low in carbohydrates but high in fiber and nutrients.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap cream cheese and cheeses for your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and use unsweetened plant-based milk. Keep in mind the sauce’s creaminess might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and increase the spinach or add mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. You could also toss in some chickpeas or toasted pine nuts to keep the protein content up.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can roast the spaghetti squash a day ahead and refrigerate it. You can also prep and season the chicken but cook it fresh for the best texture and flavor. Assembling and melting the cheese topping is best done just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly wholesome, you really can’t go wrong with Chicken and Spinach Spaghetti Squash Alfredo. It’s a beautiful melding of creamy sauce, tender chicken, vibrant greens, and the unique goodness of roasted spaghetti squash. This recipe has become a cherished favorite because it satisfies cravings while nourishing the body. I hope you give it a try soon — it might just become your go-to comfort dinner as well!

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