Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe

This spaghetti squash boats with grilled chicken recipe presents a delightful fusion of savory tastes. The tender spaghetti squash is filled with juicy grilled chicken, topped with piquant marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it's a low-carb, healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Photos of Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe

Our main ingredients are spaghetti squash and thin chicken cutlets. Spaghetti squash, named for its unique resemblance to spaghetti strands when cooked, can be found in the produce section of your supermarket, usually near other types of squash. Thin chicken cutlets are typically available in the poultry aisle; if not, you can also ask the butcher to slice regular chicken breasts into thin cutlets.

Essential Ingredients for Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe

Spaghetti squash: A versatile vegetable that serves as a delicious low-carb substitute for pasta.

Chicken cutlets: Lean cuts of chicken that cook quickly and absorb flavours well.

Garlic powder: An easy way to infuse garlic flavor without the need for fresh cloves.

Oregano: A herb that adds a depth of flavor to the chicken.

Marinara sauce: Provides a tangy contrast to the rich cheese and chicken.

Mozzarella: Melts beautifully over the top, adding a creamy, cheesy layer.

One reader, Joyann Holloway says:

This spaghetti squash boats with grilled chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so satisfying. The squash is perfectly tender, and the grilled chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. It's a healthy and hearty meal that's become a family favorite in our household. Highly recommend!

Joyann Holloway

Techniques Required for Making Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

How to roast spaghetti squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and fibers, then place on a baking sheet, cut side up, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for about 1 hour at 350 degrees F or until the skin gives easily under pressure and the inside is tender.

How to grill chicken cutlets: Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Heat a grill pan or a George Foreman grill over medium-high heat, then grill the chicken on both sides for about 3 to 5 minutes until cooked through.

How to fluff spaghetti squash: After roasting, carefully fluff the spaghetti-like strands on each half with a fork, leaving the squash in the shell.

How to melt cheese on spaghetti squash boats: Top the chicken with 1/4 cup of remaining marinara sauce and cheese, then place back into the hot oven and cook for about 12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is hot.

How to garnish with fresh basil: After cooking, garnish the dish with fresh basil before serving.

How To Make Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken

These spaghetti squash boats are roasted until tender, topped with marinara sauce, and mozzarella, paired with oregano-seasoned grilled chicken.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2spaghetti squash,small/medium, ripe
salt and fresh pepper,to taste
12ozthin chicken cutlets,4 cutlets
pinchgarlic powder
¼tsporegano
2cupsquick marinara sauce
1cupmozzarella,part skim shredded, Polly-o

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and fibers with a spoon. Place on a baking sheet, cut side up, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Roast for about 1 hour or until the skin gives easily under pressure and the inside is tender.
Meanwhile, while the squash is roasting, season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
Heat a grill pan (or a George formal grill) over medium-high heat, when hot grill chicken on both sides for about 3 to 5 minutes until cooked through. Set aside on a dish.
Remove the spaghetti squash from the oven or microwave and carefully fluff the spaghetti-like strands on each half with a fork, leaving the squash in the shell.
Season with salt and pepper, then spoon about ¼ cup marinara in each boat.
Slice the chicken on the diagonal and place each piece on top of each squash half. Top the chicken with 1/4 cup each of remaining marinara sauce.
Top with cheese and place back into the hot oven and cook for about 12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is hot.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve with parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Recipe Notes

If microwaving the squash, cut in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and fibers, and place on a microwave-safe dish and cover. Microwave for 8 to 9 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 296.97kcal
Fat: 16.11g
Saturated Fat: 6.18g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.59g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.56g
Carbohydrates: 11.07g
Fiber: 2.59g
Sugar: 7.56g
Protein: 25.88g
Cholesterol: 79.19mg
Sodium: 782.38mg
Calcium: 190.65mg
Potassium: 640.03mg
Iron: 1.88mg
Vitamin A: 114.34µg
Vitamin C: 2.64mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Spaghetti Squash Boats

When preparing your spaghetti squash, ensure that you roast it until it's tender enough to easily fluff into spaghetti-like strands with a fork. This is a crucial step in achieving the right texture for your squash. Undercooked squash will be hard and crunchy, while overcooked squash can become mushy and lose its spaghetti-like quality. To check for doneness, simply press on the skin of the squash. It should give under pressure, indicating that the inside is cooked and ready to be fluffed.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Prep ahead: Roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Consider using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, to cut down on grilling time. Simply shred the chicken and use it in the recipe.

Quick marinara: Opt for store-bought marinara sauce to save time on making it from scratch. Look for a high-quality, quick marinara sauce to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Multi-task: While the squash is roasting, prepare the chicken and gather the other ingredients to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Efficient assembly: Streamline the process by assembling the squash boats while the chicken is grilling to save time and ensure everything is ready to be baked.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe

spaghetti squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be spiralized or sliced into ribbons to create a similar texture and appearance to spaghetti squash. It also has a mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the recipe.
chicken cutlets - Substitute with tofu cutlets: Tofu cutlets can be marinated and grilled to provide a vegetarian alternative to chicken. They can absorb flavors well and offer a similar texture when grilled.
marinara sauce - Substitute with homemade tomato sauce: Making a homemade tomato sauce allows for more control over the ingredients and flavors. It can be seasoned to taste and customized to complement the dish.
mozzarella - Substitute with vegan mozzarella: Vegan mozzarella provides a dairy-free alternative while still offering a creamy and melty texture similar to traditional mozzarella.

Presenting Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

Elevate the spaghetti squash boats: Carefully arrange the spaghetti squash boats on a large, elegant platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle freshly torn basil leaves over the top of the spaghetti squash boats, adding a pop of vibrant color and a hint of aromatic freshness.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil in an artistic pattern around the edges of the platter, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Utilize fine dining plating techniques: Employ meticulous plating techniques, such as using tweezers to delicately position the chicken slices and ensuring the marinara sauce is artfully distributed.
Add a sprinkle of microgreens: Garnish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of microgreens, adding a subtle hint of earthy flavor and a visually stunning touch to the presentation.
Enhance with edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, to the platter for a visually striking and elegant touch that complements the dish's natural colors.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious and extravagant touch, delicately place a few edible gold leaf flakes on the spaghetti squash boats, adding a touch of opulence to the presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the spaghetti squash boats on individual, refined serving plates or dishes, elevating the overall dining experience and adding a touch of sophistication.
Create a harmonious color palette: Ensure the plating incorporates a harmonious color palette, with the vibrant hues of the dish complementing the overall presentation for a visually stunning effect.
Emphasize precision and attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail, ensuring that each element of the presentation is thoughtfully arranged and visually appealing to the discerning eye of a culinary professional.

Essential Tools for Making Spaghetti Squash Boats

Oven: Used for roasting the spaghetti squash and melting the cheese.
Baking sheet: Used to hold the spaghetti squash halves while roasting in the oven.
Grill pan: Used to grill the chicken cutlets.
Spoon: Used to scoop out the seeds and fibers from the spaghetti squash.
Fork: Used to fluff the spaghetti-like strands of the cooked squash.
Knife: Used to cut the spaghetti squash in half and to slice the grilled chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to measure the ingredients accurately.
Oven mitts: Used to handle hot baking sheets and dishes from the oven.
Grater: Used to grate fresh parmesan cheese for garnishing.

Storing and Freezing Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

To store leftover spaghetti squash boats, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the spaghetti squash boats, it's best to freeze the components separately:
- Roast the spaghetti squash and scrape out the strands. Place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Grill the chicken, slice it, and store it in a separate freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Prepare the marinara sauce and let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the spaghetti squash boats, thaw the components in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the spaghetti squash in the microwave or oven until warm, then fluff the strands with a fork.
Warm up the marinara sauce in a saucepan or microwave, and reheat the grilled chicken in the microwave or a skillet until heated through.
Assemble the spaghetti squash boats as directed in the recipe, topping with the warmed marinara sauce, grilled chicken, and mozzarella cheese.
Place the assembled boats under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then serve hot.

How To Reheat Leftover Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti squash boats on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the chicken and cheese from drying out while reheating.
Bake the covered spaghetti squash boats for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. The exact time will depend on the size of your squash and the amount of filling.
Alternatively, you can reheat the spaghetti squash boats in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful when removing the plate from the microwave, as it may be hot.
If you find that the mozzarella cheese hasn't melted completely after reheating, you can place the spaghetti squash boats under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
For a crispy top, remove the aluminum foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating in the oven. This will allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
If the marinara sauce seems a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten it up.
To reheat the spaghetti squash boats in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the boats in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you have leftover grilled chicken and marinara sauce, you can store them separately from the spaghetti squash. When reheating, warm up the chicken and sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop before adding them back to the spaghetti squash boats.

Interesting Fact About Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

Spaghetti squash is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. It is also low in calories and can be a healthy alternative to traditional pasta.

Is Making Spaghetti Squash Boats at Home Cost-Effective?

This spaghetti squash boats with grilled chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as spaghetti squash and chicken, are reasonably priced and readily available. The addition of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese adds flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it an affordable and nutritious meal option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Spaghetti Squash Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spaghetti squash boats with grilled chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering several nutritional benefits. Spaghetti squash is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Grilled chicken is a lean protein source, which helps with muscle maintenance and growth. The marinara sauce adds lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use a whole-grain or legume-based pasta instead of spaghetti squash for added fiber and nutrients
Opt for a low-sodium marinara sauce or make your own to control the salt content
Include more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Use a reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of mozzarella to lower the saturated fat content
Grill the chicken without added oil to reduce the overall fat content

By incorporating these changes, you can boost the nutritional value of the dish while still maintaining its delicious flavor. Additionally, you could experiment with different herbs and spices to add variety and enhance the taste without relying on salt. Serving the spaghetti squash boats with a side salad or roasted vegetables would also contribute to a well-rounded, nutrient-packed meal.

Editor's Opinion on Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

The spaghetti squash boats with grilled chicken recipe is a delightful and wholesome dish. The combination of tender spaghetti squash, flavorful grilled chicken, and gooey mozzarella creates a satisfying and nutritious meal. The use of fresh herbs and spices enhances the overall taste, while the presentation in the squash boats adds a touch of elegance. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and impressive dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and thyme for a delicious side dish.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection for a sweet and tangy side dish.

Similar Recipes to Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection for a healthy and delicious meal.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine grilled chicken with fresh mango, mixed greens, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, blend it with savory broth, and season with warm spices for a comforting and creamy soup.

Berry Crisp: Mix fresh berries with a crumbly oat topping and bake until golden brown for a sweet and fruity dessert option.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and savory appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms. Fill each mushroom cap with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then bake until golden and crispy. These bite-sized treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: Create a refreshing and colorful appetizer by assembling Caprese skewers. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves onto skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor. These elegant skewers are perfect for serving at parties or as a light starter before a meal.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This luxurious dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Velvety Lemon Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a velvety smooth lemon cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy lemon curd topping. This elegant dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Why trust this Spaghetti Squash Boats with Grilled Chicken Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delicious and wholesome meal, using fresh and natural ingredients. The spaghetti squash is roasted to perfection, creating a tender and flavorful base. The grilled chicken is seasoned with garlic powder and oregano, enhancing its taste. The dish is then topped with mozzarella and marinara sauce, adding a rich and savory element. The combination of these ingredients promises a satisfying and nutritious dining experience.

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FAQ:

How long does it take to roast the spaghetti squash?

It takes about 1 hour to roast the spaghetti squash until the skin gives easily under pressure and the inside is tender.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Cheddar, parmesan, or provolone would all work well in this recipe.

Can I prepare the spaghetti squash boats in advance?

Yes, you can roast the spaghetti squash in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dish. Then simply reheat the squash in the oven before adding the toppings.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, shrimp, or even tofu as a substitute for the grilled chicken.

Can I freeze the leftover spaghetti squash boats?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover spaghetti squash boats. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.