This garlic parmesan paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is one of those cozy meals that hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, full of protein and veggies, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a marvel for anyone seeking a slightly lighter twist on comfort food—with the squash noodles soaking up that savory garlic parmesan sauce, tender bites of chicken, bursts of fresh spinach, and a cheesy gold crust. The best part? Everything bakes up in its own squash “bowl,” which makes for an unforgettable, flavor-packed dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list—these simple ingredients work together to create a dish that’s complex in flavor, yet approachable to cook. Every component plays a part in the rich taste, tempting textures, and colorful presentation of this paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach.

Spaghetti Squash: Roasts beautifully to create tender squash “noodles” that soak up the sauce while keeping things naturally gluten free.
Olive Oil: Helps the squash roast evenly and adds subtle richness to the overall dish.
Salt, Black Pepper & Garlic Powder: These basics season the squash, brightening and enhancing its natural sweetness.
Chicken Breasts: When chopped into small cubes, they deliver satisfying protein and absorb all that garlicky parmesan flavor.
Butter: Adds depth, helps brown the chicken, and creates a silky, decadent sauce base.
Garlic: The star flavor note that makes this dish aromatic and irresistible.
Onion: Adds sweetness and substance to the creamy sauce.
Fresh Spinach: Wilts perfectly into the sauce, lending color, freshness, and extra nutrition.
Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist while infusing the filling with savory flavor.
Cream Cheese: Brings dreamy creaminess and a hint of tang.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Lends creamy body with a hint of tang using less fat.
Parmesan Cheese: The glue that brings everything together—melty, salty, golden, and so good.
Dried Thyme: Delivers subtle herbal notes to keep things lively.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Sprinkle in a little heat if you’re feeling bold.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of green and garden-fresh aroma right at the end.

How to Make Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully cut each spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds. Brush the inside of each half generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to season. Lay the squash cut-side down on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a fork slides easily into the flesh. This step gives you the perfect base for all the delicious toppings in your paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

While your squash is roasting, get a large skillet heating over medium-high and add a tablespoon of butter. Toss in the chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through—usually 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate so you can use your skillet for the next flavor-building steps.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, then add your diced onion. Cook it down until it’s soft and turning translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Next, add the spinach and cook, stirring, until it wilts down beautifully and deepens in green color, turning an ordinary skillet into the beginnings of something extraordinary.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, letting it simmer gently with the spinach and aromatics. Lower the heat, then add the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and parmesan. Sprinkle in thyme and, if you love a little kick, the red pepper flakes. Stir until you have a silky smooth, cheesy sauce. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss in half the parsley. Simmer for a couple minutes to let all the flavors kiss and marry.

Step 5: Fill the Squash and Bake

Let your squash halves cool just enough to handle, then use a fork to gently rake the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, keeping them in their shells. Lightly toss the strands with a bit of your creamy chicken and spinach mixture right inside each shell. Next, generously pile on the remaining filling until the squash halves are brimming. Top each half with more freshly grated parmesan for that irresistible golden crust. Pop everything back in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden perfection.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Savor

Let your paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors settle and the cheese slightly firm up. Finish with a flourish of the remaining parsley. Dig in to discover creamy, garlicky strands, golden cheese, juicy chicken, and bright spinach in every forkful!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach

Garnishes

To make your paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach pop, sprinkle on a bit of extra parmesan right after baking for a salty, nutty finish. A fresh scatter of chopped parsley brings a lively green touch, and a dash of red pepper flakes gives beautiful color and mild heat if desired. A squeeze of lemon over the top is optional but adds a fresh, tangy vibe.

Side Dishes

This dish is plenty hearty on its own, but you can round out dinner with a crisp side salad of mixed greens and a splash of vinaigrette. For extra comfort, simple roasted veggies or soft garlic bread pair beautifully. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a glass of chilled white wine never hurts!

Creative Ways to Present

The beauty of paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach is that it comes served in its own squash “boat.” Place the whole squash half on a plate and let guests scoop out their portion, or slice each half into wedges for a family-style presentation. You can also heap the filling on top of zoodles or cauliflower rice for a fun twist, or scoop it out to serve as a casserole for a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days, and the flavors only get better as they meld together.

Freezing

This dish is surprisingly freezer-friendly! Spoon cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers (avoid freezing in the squash shell), then stash them away for up to 2 months. When craving hits, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions of paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach in the microwave or gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. For baked leftovers, pop them into a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving substitute. Just shred it and add it toward the end, after the sauce comes together, to warm through before assembling in the squash boats.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and try adding sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or even cooked lentils as a protein-packed, plant-based alternative. Simply use veggie broth in place of chicken broth.

How do I pick a good spaghetti squash?

Look for squash that feel heavy for their size, with firm, unblemished skin and a dry stem. Avoid ones with soft spots or cracks to ensure the best texture and sweetness in your paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can roast the squash and cook the chicken up to a day ahead, storing each separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake right before serving for a stress-free weeknight dinner or easy entertaining.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Neufchâtel cheese is a great swap and a bit lighter, or try blending cottage cheese until smooth for a creamy alternative. Ricotta, though milder, can also do the trick and will add a subtle, fresh flavor to the final dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re yearning for a nourishing, cheese-laden comfort meal that still feels light and vibrant, you have to try paghetti Squash with Chicken and Spinach. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies, but surprises—every creamy, garlicky bite is a testament to how wholesome ingredients and a little creativity can make healthy cooking genuinely exciting. Happy cooking and even happier eating!