Description
This Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash recipe offers a healthy twist on the classic creamy pasta dish by using spaghetti squash as a low-carb substitute. Tender strands of baked spaghetti squash are topped with a rich and creamy chicken Alfredo sauce made from garlic, chicken broth, parmesan, and yogurt, then baked with mozzarella cheese until golden and bubbly. It’s a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for a wholesome dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spaghetti Squash
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
For the Sauce and Filling
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon oil for frying (such as olive oil or vegetable oil)
- 3/4 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup plain regular yogurt or Greek yogurt
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/4 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Squash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the cut sides down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the Squash: Bake the squash for 30-40 minutes until the skin is dark and glossy and the flesh flakes with a fork. Be careful not to overcook. Remove from oven and let cool for about 15 minutes until safe to handle.
- Sauté Garlic: While the squash cools, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
- Make the Sauce: Add chicken broth, cornstarch, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Whisk until smooth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Yogurt: Remove the skillet from heat, whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Then stir in the yogurt until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the Alfredo sauce.
- Separate Squash Strands: Use a fork to separate the baked spaghetti squash flesh into strands while still in the shells, being careful to keep the shells intact.
- Fill the Squash: Spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture evenly on top of each spaghetti squash half and gently stir with a fork to let the sauce penetrate deeper into the squash strands.
- Add Mozzarella and Bake: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over each stuffed squash half. Place the squash halves in a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
- Broil for Color: Turn on the broiler and broil the stuffed squash for 2-3 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the squash gently so the sauce blends well. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, low-carb Chicken Alfredo spaghetti squash.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-5 days. This dish does not freeze well due to the yogurt-based sauce.
- Use plain Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier sauce, or plain regular yogurt for a lighter version.
- Ensure not to overcook the spaghetti squash so it retains a slight firmness and good texture.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed spaghetti squash half
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 70mg