Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole: Whole30, Paleo, Low Carb, GF

This Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is an irresistible dish that combines the hearty flavors of chicken and creamy Alfredo with the unique texture of spaghetti squash. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is not only delicious but also packed with vegetables. With its easy preparation and reheating qualities, it is ideal for busy lifestyles, making it a great choice for family gatherings or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: This casserole is made with fresh ingredients that align with Whole30 and paleo diets, ensuring a nutritious meal.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic Alfredo sauce, chicken, and roasted vegetables creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for batch cooking, this dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, saving you time on busy days.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large casserole dish
• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Forks

Importance of Each Tool

• Large casserole dish: Perfect for baking and serving your casserole in one dish; easy clean-up!
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting the spaghetti squash evenly; ensures optimal cooking results.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through the spaghetti squash and chicken effortless.
• Forks: Useful for shredding chicken and scraping out the spaghetti squash strands.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium white onion, diced

For the Spaghetti Squash

• 1 medium sized spaghetti squash

For the Sauce & Veggies

• 1 jar Primal Kitchen Garlic Alfredo Sauce (or homemade Whole30/Dairy-Free Alfredo)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 tsp salt (plus more for seasoning chicken)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper (plus more for seasoning chicken)
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

1. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise.
2. Scrape out the seeds using a spoon.
3. Spray the cut sides with a bit of cooking oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Place the squash cut side down onto a baking sheet and position it on an upper rack in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. In a large casserole dish, add the chicken breasts and diced onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper over everything.
3. Toss to coat well before placing it into the oven on a lower rack.

Step 4: Bake Initial Components

Bake both dishes in the oven for 30 minutes. This allows both ingredients to begin cooking through.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. After 30 minutes, carefully remove both dishes from the oven.
2. Dice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
3. Use a fork to scrape out threads from each half of the spaghetti squash directly into the casserole dish.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

1. Add garlic Alfredo sauce, broccoli florets, remaining salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the casserole dish.
2. Use two forks to stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Final Bake

Place the casserole back into the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once removed from the oven, dish up your hearty Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole into bowls and enjoy! This nutritious meal is sure to be a hit at any table!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Serving your Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole can elevate the meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish.

Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls for a personal touch. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portion while keeping the casserole warm.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of your casserole.

Side Salad

• Pair the casserole with a simple side salad. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the alfredo sauce.

Avocado Slices

• Add slices of avocado on top of each serving. The creaminess balances the dish and provides healthy fats.

Lemon Wedge

• Serve with a lemon wedge on the side. A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

To make your Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole even better, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Ripe Squash: Select a spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform yellow color for optimal flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning your chicken and vegetables. Well-seasoned ingredients bring out the best flavors in your casserole.
• Use Leftover Chicken: For quicker prep, use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole during baking; ovens can vary in temperature, so adjust baking time as needed.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

A well-rounded meal is all about balance! Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with your Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic powder, and roast until tender and slightly crispy for added crunch.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sauté zucchini noodles in olive oil and season with salt for a low-carb alternative that complements the casserole.
3. Cauliflower Rice: Cook cauliflower rice in vegetable broth for extra flavor; it’s a great low-carb option that adds volume to your plate.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus spears steamed until tender make a delightful addition rich in vitamins.
5. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens dressed in olive oil and vinegar provides refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts until caramelized; their nutty flavor pairs perfectly with creamy dishes like this casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes that can occur while making the Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole.

• Overcooking the chicken: When baking, it’s easy to overcook chicken breasts, leading to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F for juicy results.
• Neglecting seasoning: A common mistake is under-seasoning. Don’t forget to season each component, from the chicken to the spaghetti squash, for a well-flavored dish.
• Not scraping the squash properly: If you don’t scrape out the spaghetti squash threads thoroughly, you might miss out on its texture. Make sure to use a fork and scrape deeply for the best results.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or sauce can lead to uneven cooking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before combining them in the casserole.
• Ignoring oven placement: Placing dishes too close together in the oven can affect heat circulation. Ensure that there’s enough space around your casserole and spaghetti squash for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

What is Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole?

Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken, spaghetti squash, and broccoli with creamy alfredo sauce, all baked together for a comforting meal.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep this casserole ahead of time. Assemble it without baking and store it in the fridge overnight. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake!

Is this Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

What can I substitute if I don’t have alfredo sauce?

If you don’t have alfredo sauce on hand, you can make a simple sauce using blended cashews and garlic or opt for any dairy-free cream alternative that fits your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different veggies or swapping out proteins based on your preference. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal while adhering to Whole30, paleo, low carb, and gluten-free lifestyles. Give it a try!

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Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the delectable Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Casserole, a wholesome dish that marries tender chicken with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce and the unique texture of spaghetti squash. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious meal that fits seamlessly into Whole30, paleo, low carb, and gluten-free lifestyles. Packed with fresh vegetables and easy to prepare, this casserole is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Enjoy the comforting flavors and satisfying textures that make this dish a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium white onion, diced
• 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
• 1 jar Primal Kitchen Garlic Alfredo Sauce (or homemade)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Halve the spaghetti squash lengthwise; remove seeds and season cut sides with salt. Place cut side down on a baking sheet.
3. In a large casserole dish, combine chicken breasts and diced onion; drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake both dishes for 30 minutes.
5. Remove from oven; dice chicken and scrape spaghetti squash strands into the casserole dish.
6. Add Alfredo sauce, broccoli, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
7. Return to oven; bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 245g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 75mg