Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Zesty Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Golden and tender, this chicken and broccoli stuffed spaghetti squash delivers a delightful twist on comfort food that sizzles with flavor.

Roasted spaghetti squash becomes the perfect vessel for juicy, seasoned chicken and vibrant broccoli florets nestled inside its natural bowl.

Packed with protein and low-carb goodness, this dish brings serious nutrition to your dinner table without sacrificing taste.

Each forkful promises a medley of textures and savory notes that dance across your palate.

The combination of lean protein and hearty vegetables creates a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Melted cheese adds a creamy finish that elevates every bite to pure satisfaction.

You’ll love how easily this recipe comes together, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s sure to impress.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 5

Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash: Ingredients

For Main Ingredients:
  • Spaghetti Squash: Choose a firm, heavy squash with a deep, rich color indicating ripeness and sweetness.
  • Chicken Breast: Select fresh, boneless chicken for lean protein and easy preparation.
  • Broccoli Florets: Opt for bright green, crisp florets that ensure maximum nutrition and texture.
For Dairy and Creamy Components:
  • Cream Cheese, Greek Yogurt: Select full-fat versions for rich, smooth consistency and enhanced flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for superior melting and authentic taste.
For Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin for robust, fruity undertones and health benefits.
  • Shallots, Garlic: Pick firm, aromatic alliums without soft spots or sprouts for intense flavor.
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Seek high-quality, fresh spices to elevate the dish's overall taste profile.
  • Fresh Parsley, Red Pepper Flakes: Select vibrant, fragrant herbs for optional garnish and added zest.

Tools to Make Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

  • Chef's Knife: Sharp tool for cutting spaghetti squash and chopping ingredients precisely.
  • Large Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting squash and baking the final dish.
  • Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Large Skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken and broccoli mixture.
  • Mixing Bowl: Needed for combining cream cheese, yogurt, and other filling ingredients.
  • Cutting Board: Provides stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helps accurately measure seasonings and oil.
  • Fork: Used for scraping squash strands and mixing ingredients.
  • Foil: Covers dish during baking to prevent excessive browning.

Cooking Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Squash Boat Creation

  • Squash Preparation Kitchen magic begins with transforming a whole spaghetti squash into delectable boats. Slice the veggie lengthwise, remove seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  • Protein Power Sizzle chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown. Add broccoli for a vibrant green crunch, creating a perfect protein-packed mixture that will make taste buds dance.
  • Creamy Fusion Blend cream cheese and Greek yogurt into a silky sauce. Fold in the chicken-broccoli medley and sprinkle with Parmesan for an extra flavor punch.
  • Filling The Boats Gently nestle the creamy mixture into roasted squash shells. Top generously with melty mozzarella cheese that promises a golden, bubbly finish.
  • Final Touch Bake until cheese transforms into a gorgeous golden blanket. Sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra zest. Serve immediately and watch everyone's eyes light up with excitement.

Customizing Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

  • Replace chicken with ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or tofu for a quick protein swap that keeps the dish exciting and versatile.
  • Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for an extra kick of heat and deeper flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
  • Experiment with different vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach to create unique flavor combinations while maintaining the recipe's core structure.
  • Try alternative cheese blends like goat cheese, sharp cheddar, or a Mexican cheese mix to transform the dish's taste and create a personalized culinary experience.
  • Prepare the spaghetti squash and chicken mixture up to two days in advance, storing separately in the refrigerator to streamline meal preparation and reduce day-of cooking stress.

Serving Ideas for Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

  • Flavor Boost Companions: Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the creamy, rich stuffed squash.
  • Family Style Magic: Serve directly in the spaghetti squash shells for a stunning presentation that looks gourmet but feels homey and inviting.
  • Wine and Dine Pairing: Select a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the chicken and cuts through the creamy cheese notes.
  • Hearty Side Kick: Add a slice of crusty whole grain bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce and complete the meal with a satisfying texture contrast.

Store Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Right

  • Fridge Fresh Storage: Store leftover stuffed spaghetti squash in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The creamy chicken and broccoli filling stays delicious when refrigerated properly.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the spaghetti squash and chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Keep components separate in sealed containers to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual stuffed squash halves tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • Meal Prep Champion: This recipe works brilliantly for weekly lunch prep. Portion into individual containers for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week. Reheat gently to prevent cheese from becoming rubbery.
Print
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Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Recipe


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4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Hearty chicken and broccoli stuffed spaghetti squash delivers a nutritious Mediterranean-inspired meal packed with protein and vegetables. Creamy cheese and herbs elevate this comforting dish that you will savor with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts (large, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 spaghetti squash (large)
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 shallots (minced)
  • 6 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 3 tbsps olive oil (divided)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tsps Italian seasoning
  • 4 tbsps cream cheese (room temperature)
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for spaghetti squash roasting.
  2. Squash Preparation: Slice spaghetti squash lengthwise, carefully removing seeds. Coat interior with olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on prepared sheet.
  3. Roasting Process: Bake squash for 45-60 minutes until tender, developing signature stringy texture. Extract flesh using a fork, creating delicate spaghetti-like strands.
  4. Protein and Vegetable Cooking: Sear chicken in a skillet until golden brown. Sauté shallots, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then add broccoli florets, briefly steaming to maintain color and crispness.
  5. Filling Creation: Combine cream cheese and Greek yogurt to form a smooth base. Incorporate cooked chicken, broccoli, Parmesan, and half the mozzarella cheese into the creamy mixture.
  6. Squash Assembly: Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Gently mix spaghetti squash strands with the prepared filling, ensuring even distribution. Fill squash halves, topping with remaining mozzarella.
  7. Final Baking: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking until cheese melts into a golden, bubbling crust.
  8. Serving: Garnish with optional fresh parsley or red pepper flakes. Serve immediately while warm and delectable.

Notes

  • Prep Squash Safely: Use a sharp, sturdy knife and apply steady pressure when cutting spaghetti squash to prevent slipping and potential injury.
  • Optimize Roasting Time: Check squash tenderness after 45 minutes by piercing with a fork; cooking time varies based on squash size and oven precision.
  • Control Moisture Levels: Drain excess liquid from chicken and broccoli mixture to prevent soggy squash strands and maintain ideal texture.
  • Cheese Melting Technique: Cover with foil during initial baking to prevent cheese from burning, then uncover to achieve perfect golden-brown melting surface.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sophie Martin

Sophie Martin

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  • Creating Balanced Recipes
  • Meal Planning
  • Food Safety
  • Teaching About Nutrition

Education

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Focus: Studying how food affects health, learning about balanced diets, and understanding the nutritional needs of different people.

South African Chefs Academy, Cape Town

  • Program: Professional Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Practical cooking skills, focusing on healthy meal preparation and understanding various cooking methods.

Sophie Martin is the nutrition brain and feel-good foodie at Good Tasting Meals. With a degree in Human Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and chef training from the South African Chefs Academy, Sophie brings balance to the table, literally. She loves creating meals that are easy to make, great to eat, and good for your body too.

Her recipes are made for everyday living, with a little flair and a lot of heart. Sophie’s not here to count calories, she’s here to show you how fresh, simple food can fit into your life, taste amazing, and still be nourishing.

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