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Pesto Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Pesto Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
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Pesto Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is a nutritious and flavorful low-carb dish that combines tender grilled chicken, vibrant homemade pesto, and the unique texture of roasted spaghetti squash. This gluten-free meal is perfect for those seeking a balanced dinner with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, served in an impressive stuffed presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the inside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and roast for about 40 minutes or until the flesh easily shreds into strands with a fork.
  2. Cook the Chicken: While the squash roasts, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet with some olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, slice the chicken thinly or shred it for easier stuffing.
  3. Combine with Pesto: In a bowl, mix the shredded spaghetti squash, cooked chicken, and pesto sauce together until everything is well coated. Taste to adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or pesto as desired.
  4. Stuff and Bake: Spoon the pesto chicken and spaghetti squash mixture back into the roasted squash shells. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Return the stuffed halves to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the stuffed squash cool slightly before serving. Each half serves as a perfect individual portion, offering an attractive and hearty meal.

Notes

  • Roast squash cut side down for even cooking and to keep it moist.
  • Use fresh pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought) to enhance flavor.
  • Do not overcook chicken to maintain juiciness.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper to brighten the flavors.
  • Let the stuffed squash rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pesto Chicken, Stuffed Spaghetti Squash, Low Carb, Gluten Free, Healthy Dinner, Baked Chicken, Pesto Sauce

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/pesto-chicken-stuffed-spaghetti-squash/