Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe : A Light and Flavorful Dinner Idea

Posted on July 8, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

chicken and spaghetti casserole recipe in a skillet

Looking for a wholesome dinner that feels indulgent yet keeps things light? This Tuscan chicken and spaghetti squash recipe brings all the creamy, garlicky, and herb-packed flavors of Tuscan cuisine — served over tender roasted spaghetti squash instead of pasta. It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight meal, offering all the satisfaction of Tuscan spaghetti with a healthier twist.

Whether you’re already a fan of chicken with spaghetti squash recipes, need fresh dinner ideas with spaghetti squash, or want to try something beyond the usual spaghetti squash marinara recipes, this dish delivers big on flavor and ease.

Let’s discover why this recipe is a must-try among spaghetti squash main dish recipes, and how you can make it tonight!

Who Will Love This Dish? From Tuscan Spaghetti Fans to Dinner Ideas With Spaghetti Squash Seekers

This dish is perfect for:
✅ Families looking for a nutritious yet comforting dinner.
✅ Home cooks who enjoy classic Italian-inspired meals with a lighter twist.
✅ People on gluten-free or lower-carb diets who want alternatives to pasta.
✅ Anyone searching for creative spaghetti squash and spinach recipes or spaghetti squash and zucchini recipes.

If you’ve ever tried Tuscan spaghetti at a restaurant, you’ll love how this recipe captures the same creamy garlic-parmesan flavor while keeping it light and veggie-packed.

Why This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe Stands Out Among Spaghetti Squash Main Dish Recipes

Here’s what makes this recipe a standout:
✅ It’s a complete one-plate meal with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.
✅ The spaghetti squash base is lower in carbs and full of fiber.
✅ The creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and spinach feels gourmet but is simple to make.
✅ It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free if needed.

If you’ve only made spaghetti squash sweet potato or spaghetti squash marinara recipes before, this flavorful Tuscan variation is a fresh and exciting alternative.

Ingredients: What You Need for Chicken With Spaghetti Squash Recipes

For about 4 servings, you’ll need:

  • Spaghetti squash – 1 large (about 3–4 lbs)
  • Chicken breasts – 2 large, cut into bite-size pieces
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
  • Sun-dried tomatoes – 1/3 cup, chopped
  • Baby spinach – 3 cups
  • Heavy cream (or coconut cream) – 1/2 cup
  • Chicken broth – 1/2 cup
  • Parmesan cheese (optional) – 1/4 cup, grated
  • Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and pepper – to taste
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley, extra parmesan

Kitchen Equipment: Tools to Prepare Spaghetti Squash And Spinach Recipes Like a Pro

✅ Large baking sheet
✅ Sharp chef’s knife
✅ Spoon (to scrape squash seeds)
✅ Large skillet
✅ Wooden spoon or spatula
✅ Mixing bowls

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

1️⃣ Roast the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 40–45 minutes until tender. Scrape with a fork to create strands.

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken

While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.

4️⃣ Combine and Serve

Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Serve over mounds of spaghetti squash and sprinkle with parmesan and parsley if desired.

Tips for Success: Mastering Dinners With Spaghetti Squash and Tuscan Spaghetti Flavor

✅ Don’t over-roast the squash — it should be tender but not mushy.
✅ Pat chicken pieces dry before cooking for better browning.
✅ Use jarred sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for maximum flavor.
✅ For extra creaminess, stir in an extra tablespoon of cream or cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Spaghetti Squash Main Dish Recipes

🚫 Overcooking spaghetti squash — it can turn watery.
🚫 Using too much oil in the skillet — the sauce can become greasy.
🚫 Crowding the chicken in the skillet — cook in batches if needed for even browning.

For another delicious veggie-packed dinner idea, check out our healthy spaghetti squash au gratin — another lighter take on a comfort classic.

Serving Suggestions: How to Present Spaghetti Squash And Zucchini Recipes Beautifully

✨ Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for color.
✨ Serve with a crisp green salad on the side.
✨ Offer warm crusty gluten-free bread for mopping up the sauce.
✨ Plate on a large platter for a family-style meal.

Creative Variations: From Spaghetti Squash Sweet Potato Ideas to Spaghetti Squash Marinara Recipes

🍠 Mix half roasted sweet potato noodles for a sweeter, heartier variation.
🍅 Swap the creamy sauce for marinara and turn this into a Tuscan-inspired spaghetti squash marinara recipe.
🥒 Add sautéed zucchini ribbons for a mix of textures and flavors.
🥛 Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

These variations make it easy to keep dinners with spaghetti squash interesting and seasonal.

How to Store and Reheat Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash

✅ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
✅ Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warm.
✅ Not freezer-friendly — spaghetti squash can become watery when thawed.

Best Pairings: Sides and Drinks to Complement This Dinner Idea With Spaghetti Squash

🥗 Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
🍷 (Non-alcoholic) sparkling grape juice or iced herbal tea.
🍋 Roasted garlic green beans or asparagus on the side.
🥖 Gluten-free breadsticks or focaccia.

For another light yet flavorful Italian-inspired dinner, try our caramelized onion pasta — simple and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes — substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

What other greens can I use besides spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or baby arugula are all great choices.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can roast the squash and cook the chicken a day ahead — just assemble and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes — it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.

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We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Tuscan chicken and spaghetti squash recipe — a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for company. Whether you’re exploring chicken with spaghetti squash recipes, trying out new dinner ideas with spaghetti squash, or simply craving the flavors of Tuscan spaghetti, this recipe delivers every time.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family — and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more creative spaghetti squash main dish recipes, light Italian-inspired meals, and healthy dinner ideas.

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Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe : A Light and Flavorful Dinner Idea


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Tuscan Chicken and Spaghetti Squash Recipe is a creamy, healthy, and flavorful main dish that’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and creamy sauce over spaghetti squash, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.


Ingredients

Scale

1 medium spaghetti squash 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups baby spinach ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free) ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and black pepper, to taste Fresh basil, for garnish


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30–40 minutes until tender. 2. While squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. 3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes; sauté for 1–2 minutes. 4. Stir in cream and Parmesan (if using) and let simmer gently. Add spinach and cook until wilted. 5. Shred spaghetti squash into strands with a fork and add to skillet along with chicken. Toss everything together and adjust seasoning if needed. 6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for best flavor. • Don’t overcook the squash — strands should stay slightly firm. • For dairy-free, use coconut cream and skip the Parmesan. • For vegetarian, substitute chicken with cannellini beans or mushrooms.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Roasted, Sautéed
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Tuscan chicken and spaghetti squash recipe, spaghetti squash main dish recipes, dinners with spaghetti squash, chicken with spaghetti squash recipes, healthy spaghetti squash recipes

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