Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash: Delicious 10-Min Prep

Name: Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash: Delicious 10-Min Prep
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken (cut into bite-size pieces); 2 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 shallot (minced); 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (julienne cut); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 3 ounces baby spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

by Fenna Saul

October 5, 2025

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Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was looking for a healthier alternative to pasta but didn’t want to sacrifice that rich, comforting Italian flavor. The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes simmering in the creamy sauce, mingling with the tender chicken and delicate squash strands, filled my kitchen and instantly transported me. This dish offers delightful chicken spaghetti squash with Tuscan flavors that everyone in my family devours. You’ll find it’s an easy Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash dinner that feels special every time. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible dish! It’s packed with amazing flavor and so many benefits:

Incredible Tuscan Taste: You’ll adore the rich, creamy sauce with savory chicken, bright spinach, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes that just screams Italy.
Super Quick Prep: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without the heavy carbs.
Low Carb Champion: As a delicious low carb Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash option, it fits perfectly into your healthy eating goals.
Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like chicken and spaghetti squash makes this a meal that won’t break the bank.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters rave about this Tuscan twist on chicken and squash.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy all the creamy, comforting goodness you crave with this satisfying low carb Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash bake.

Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash Ingredients

Gathering these Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash ingredients is the first step toward an amazing meal. I love how simple they are, yet they come together to create such a complex flavor!

1 medium spaghetti squash – the base for our “noodles”
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken – cut into bite-size pieces for even cooking
2 tablespoons butter – divided for sautéing and richness
4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Tuscan aroma
1 shallot, minced – adds a subtle sweetness and depth
2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, julienne cut – these little gems pack a concentrated, sweet-tart flavor
1 cup heavy cream – creates our luscious, creamy sauce
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – for that salty, umami kick
3 ounces baby spinach – wilts down beautifully, adding color and nutrients
Salt and pepper to taste – always adjust to your preference
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs to enhance the Tuscan profile

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How to Make Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Let’s dive into how to make this incredible Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash. It’s surprisingly straightforward and results in a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant!

Step 1: Start by piercing the spaghetti squash a few times with a fork. This is important to prevent it from exploding in the microwave! Pop it into the microwave on high for about 8-12 minutes, or until it’s tender when you squeeze it. Carefully remove it from the microwave and let it cool enough to handle.
Step 2: While the squash cools, season your chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 7 minutes. You want to achieve a nice sear!
Step 3: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm and juicy. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and shallot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant and soften. Stir in the julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute, letting their sweet flavor bloom.
Step 4: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook until it thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat. Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smooth, then add the baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts into the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Stir everything together to coat the chicken in the delicious sauce. This is where how to make Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash really comes together.
Step 6: Once the spaghetti squash is cool enough to handle, cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center. Use a fork to scrape down the sides of the squash, creating delicate strands that look just like spaghetti. Stir these beautiful squash noodles directly into the skillet with the chicken and cream sauce until everything is beautifully coated.
Step 7: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your amazing Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash immediately!

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Pro Tips for the Best Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Want to elevate your Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash game? These little tricks will ensure your dish is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few things over the years that make all the difference!

Microwave your spaghetti squash until just tender, not mushy. Overcooked squash can turn watery.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken; cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
Reserve some pasta water (or in this case, squash strands) before draining if you want to thin the sauce slightly.
Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end – salt, pepper, and even a pinch of red pepper flakes can make a big impact.

What’s the secret to perfect Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash?

The real magic for the best Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash lies in the balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked squash strands. My secret is not overcooking any component, ensuring each element shines individually before coming together.

Can I make Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! For excellent Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash meal prep, prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the fridge. Cook the spaghetti squash just before serving and gently combine everything. This keeps the squash from getting soggy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash?

A common mistake is overcooking the chicken, making it dry. Another is using a sauce that’s too thin; ensure your cream reduces slightly. Also, don’t over-microwave the squash, or it will lose its texture.

Best Ways to Serve Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

This dish is so versatile, it feels like a gourmet meal every time! Serving it is half the fun.

As a Standalone Meal: Honestly, this Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash is so rich and flavorful, you don’t need much else! The chicken, creamy sauce, and squash noodles make it a complete and satisfying meal on its own.
With a Simple Side Salad: For a lighter touch, pair it with a crisp green salad. A simple vinaigrette or a lemon-based dressing complements the rich sauce beautifully. This helps balance the flavors and textures perfectly.
Alongside Crusty Bread: If you’re not strictly low-carb or just love soaking up every last bit of sauce, serve some crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up any extra creamy goodness left from the Tuscan chicken and squash noodles.

Nutrition Facts for Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

This Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash is a wonderfully balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe yielding 4 servings:

Calories: 540
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

This Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash recipe is fantastic for leftovers! Once your dish has cooled down slightly, it’s time to think about storing it properly. For the best results, transfer any remaining Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash into airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in your refrigerator. It will stay delicious in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days.

If you want to keep this delicious meal even longer, freezing is a great option for future Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash enjoyment. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For oven reheating, place it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave on medium power for 3-5 minutes, or gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash

What is Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash?

What is Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash, you ask? It’s a delightful dish that marries tender chicken, vibrant vegetables like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, all served over naturally spiralized spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta. It brings the robust flavors of Italian Tuscan cuisine into a healthier, low-carb meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute. They tend to stay even juicier and add another layer of rich flavor to the dish. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces, cooking them until they are thoroughly done before adding them back to the sauce.

How do I get the spaghetti squash to cook evenly?

Microwaving the spaghetti squash whole with a few fork pierces is a great start. For more even cooking, you can also cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and then microwave the halves cut-side down on a microwave-safe plate with a little water. This method can sometimes yield more uniform strands for your Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash?

Since this dish is quite rich, simple sides work best. A light, crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette is wonderful. You could also serve it with some steamed broccoli or asparagus for an extra boost of veggies. Avoid heavy starches to keep the meal balanced.

Variations of Tuscan Chicken Spaghetti Squash You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs? This Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:

Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional punch by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts to the sauce. They bring fantastic texture and flavor.
Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and shallots. This gives a subtle warmth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Dairy-Free Delight: Craving that creamy goodness without the dairy? Try using full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a delicious dairy-free creamy Tuscan chicken spaghetti squash. Ensure you use unsweetened coconut milk!
Sheet Pan Shortcut: For an even easier cleanup, try a sheet pan variation! Toss chicken and spaghetti squash (pre-cooked or cut into rings) with olive oil, Tuscan herbs, and roast on a sheet pan. Then, toss with a pre-made or quick pan sauce.