Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti Squash

Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti Squash is a vibrant, healthy dish featuring tender lemon–garlic chicken atop roasted spaghetti squash strands. This gluten-free meal is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a light yet satisfying dinner that takes just over an hour to prepare.

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This American cuisine favorite is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. With a preparation time of 20 minutes and a roasting time of 45 minutes, it offers a balance of savory garlic, zesty lemon, and the natural sweetness of roasted squash.

Ingredients

• For the Spaghetti Squash: 1 large spaghetti squash (about 3 lbs), 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
• For the Lemon Garlic Chicken: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces), 2 tbsp olive oil, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 lemon (zested and juiced), ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• For Serving: ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Extra lemon wedges (optional), Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the cut sides with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Step 2

Roast for 40–45 minutes, until the flesh is tender and strands separate easily with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

While the squash roasts, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, and half the lemon zest.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the remaining lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 7

Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands.

Step 8

Divide the squash among plates. Top each with the lemon garlic chicken and pan sauce.

Step 9

Sprinkle with Parmesan and extra parsley. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic. Ensure the garlic is only cooked for about a minute to keep it fragrant without burning.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result or use rotisserie chicken for convenience. To make it dairy-free, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Serviervorschläge

This dish pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Serve with extra lemon wedges for an added burst of citrus and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant presentation.

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Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a complete dinner, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Spaghetti Squash offers a nutritious and flavorful solution that satisfies every craving.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the spaghetti squash up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Prepare the chicken just before serving to ensure it remains moist and flavorful. The components can be reheated gently and assembled fresh.

→ What are good substitutes for spaghetti squash?

Zucchini noodles, regular pasta, or cauliflower rice work well as alternatives. Zucchini noodles offer a similar light texture, while regular pasta provides a more traditional approach. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your choice.

→ How do I know when the spaghetti squash is fully roasted?

The squash is ready when the flesh is tender and easily separates into strands with a fork. The skin should yield slightly to gentle pressure. Roasting typically takes 40-45 minutes at 400°F, though larger squash may need additional time.

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this dish?

Thaw frozen chicken completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning absorption. Cooking frozen chicken directly may result in uneven doneness and less flavorful results.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but components can be prepared separately and stored for up to 3 days. Store roasted squash and cooked chicken in separate containers, then combine and reheat gently before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

→ What wine pairs well with this meal?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright lemon flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a light Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay provides excellent pairing options for this fresh, citrus-forward dish.