When I first made Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, I was blown away by how satisfying and flavorful it was. It quickly became a family favorite, combining the comfort of cheesy, saucy goodness with the refreshing lightness of spaghetti squash.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting yet healthy, this recipe is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen! Let’s get started.
Credit: layersofhappiness
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish. These ingredients have been carefully chosen to bring out the best flavors and textures. Make sure to follow the tips for an even tastier dish!
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 3 pounds)
Tip: Choose a firm squash with no blemishes for the best strands. - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Tip: Pound them slightly for even cooking. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
Tip: Use extra-virgin olive oil for a richer flavor. - 1 cup marinara sauce
Pro Tip: Go for a low-sugar, high-quality marinara for balanced taste. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Tip: Always shred fresh mozzarella; it melts better than pre-shredded! - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pro Tip: Look for aged Parmesan for a sharp, nutty flavor. - 2 large eggs, beaten
Tip: These will help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to the chicken. - ¾ cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
Tip: For extra flavor, mix in some dried oregano and basil. - Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or basil
Note: This recipe makes about 4 servings. Adjust ingredient quantities if you’re cooking for a smaller or larger group.
Variations
You can customize this recipe to suit various dietary preferences or simply to shake things up:
- Dairy-Free: Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a coating for the chicken.
- Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or shrimp for a different twist.
- Extra Flavor: Add roasted red peppers or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a slight kick.
You can also enjoy the best chicken burgers if you’re in the mood for something handheld and packed with flavor.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to create this dish from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Equipment You Need
To make this recipe seamless, gather these tools:
- A sharp knife – for cutting the spaghetti squash safely.
- A baking sheet – to roast the squash to perfection.
- A large skillet – for browning the chicken.
- A mixing bowl – for preparing the breadcrumb mixture.
- A fork – to shred the spaghetti squash into strands.
- A baking dish – to assemble and bake the final dish.
How to Make Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Chicken?
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle it with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 35-45 minutes or until tender. Once done, let it cool slightly before shredding the flesh with a fork into long, noodle-like strands.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the squash roasts, prep the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up a dredging station with three bowls containing all-purpose flour, beaten eggs, and the seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of grated Parmesan. Coat each breast in flour, dip it in eggs, and then press it into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breadcrumb-coated chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat the broiler in your oven. Take a baking dish and layer the shredded spaghetti squash as the base. Add sliced cooked chicken on top, followed by an even layer of marinara sauce. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving. Serve hot and savor the harmony of flavors!
Credit: eatingwell
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some tips from when I made this recipe to help you perfect it:
- Use freshly grated cheese for a better melt and overall taste.
- Don’t skip seasoning the squash! A bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper goes a long way.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the cheese before broiling.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken in the skillet; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- You can pre-roast the squash earlier in the day to save time whenever you’re ready to cook.
If you like bold flavors with an Asian twist, you’ll probably love mongolian chicken too.
How to Serve Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Chicken?
For a stunning presentation, serve the dish straight from the baking dish, scooping portions onto individual plates. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and chopped parsley for an elegant garnish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re serving guests, plating it in contrasting black or white dishes makes the vibrant colors pop.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a healthy balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 18g
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to make the most of leftovers or prep the dish ahead:
- Restoring: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Reheating: Place in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Chicken will win you over:
- Healthy Alternative: Enjoy all the comfort of chicken Parmesan with fewer carbs.
- Customizable: Tailor it to your dietary needs with simple swaps.
- Flavor-Packed: Every bite has crispy chicken, saucy squash, and melty cheese.
- Beautiful Presentation: It looks as good as it tastes, perfect for dinners with family or friends.
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps, it’s simpler than you might think!
This recipe has everything you need for a warm, hearty meal—but that light spaghetti squash twist makes it feel fresh and healthy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, Parmesan Spaghetti Squash with Chicken is sure to be a hit at your table!
For more ideas, explore our collection of flavorful chicken recipes that are just as easy and satisfying.