Description
A healthy and flavorful Chicken Pesto Spaghetti Squash recipe featuring roasted spaghetti squash strands tossed in a homemade basil-pumpkin seed pesto sauce, topped with tender, seasoned chicken thighs. Perfect for a low-carb, nutrient-rich meal that’s packed with fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Squash
- 1 large roasted spaghetti squash
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 pinch sea salt
Chicken
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (to taste)
Pesto Sauce
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 2/3 cup avocado oil
- 1 large clove garlic
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (optional, omit for Whole30)
Instructions
- Roast the Spaghetti Squash: Preheat your oven and roast the spaghetti squash until tender. Once roasted, allow it to cool enough to handle, then carefully scoop out the strands using a fork and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pumpkin seeds, garlic, and parmesan cheese if using. Pulse a few times to roughly chop the ingredients. Keep the food processor running and slowly stream in the avocado oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches a smooth and spreadable texture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of avocado or coconut oil. Add the chopped chicken along with sea salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Let it brown undisturbed for 3 minutes, stir, then continue browning for another 3 minutes without stirring. Stir again, cover the skillet, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 2 to 5 minutes more.
- Combine and Serve: Add the prepared pesto sauce to the roasted spaghetti squash strands and toss well to coat. Then add the cooked chicken along with any juices from the pan, toss everything together until combined. Taste and adjust with additional sea salt if needed. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use pumpkin seeds as a nut-free alternative to traditional pine nuts in pesto.
- Parmesan cheese is optional; omit it to make the dish compliant with Whole30 guidelines.
- For extra flavor, cook the chicken in avocado oil or coconut oil as per your preference.
- Make sure the spaghetti squash is thoroughly roasted to easily separate into strands.
