Creamy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Using a fork, scrape the spaghetti squash flesh into a bowl. Add the cooked vegetables, chicken, coconut milk, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This Creamy Spaghetti Squash Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish for a comforting and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce makes it incredibly flavorful and delicious.
Spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that can be a great substitute for traditional pasta. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a unique stringy texture that resembles spaghetti noodles when cooked. It is also low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a healthy choice for those looking to cut back on carbohydrates.
The creamy sauce in this casserole is made with coconut milk and chicken broth, giving it a rich and velvety texture. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a deliciously cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
To make this casserole, start by roasting the spaghetti squash in the oven until tender. While the squash is cooking, sauté onions, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and garlic in a skillet until they are tender. Then, combine the cooked vegetables with the spaghetti squash, cooked chicken, coconut milk, chicken broth, and a blend of herbs and spices. Mix everything together and transfer it to a baking dish. Top it off with grated Parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
This creamy spaghetti squash casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spaghetti squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. The addition of chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a dinner party with friends. It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed. Serve it as a main course with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 28g
Tips:
- You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese.
- If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can use rotisserie chicken or cook some chicken breasts and shred them.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of squash?
A: Yes, if you can’t find spaghetti squash, you can substitute it with butternut squash or acorn squash. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether to make this casserole dairy-free.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy this creamy spaghetti squash chicken casserole for a delicious and nutritious meal that will satisfy your cravings!