Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures that the spaghetti squash roasts evenly, developing a sweet, nutty flavor.
- Carefully cut the tip and tail off of the spaghetti squash using a sharp knife. Slice it in half down the middle, hot dog style, being cautious while cutting.
- Scoop out the seeds and innards using a spoon and discard them. This step is necessary to prepare the squash for roasting.
- Drizzle the flesh (cut side) of the squash with one to two tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil per half. Use your fingers or a silicone brush to coat it evenly.
- Sprinkle the flesh with sea salt to enhance its flavor. This will help to create a deliciously seasoned base.
- Place the spaghetti squash on a large baking sheet cut-side down. Roast it on the center rack of the preheated oven for 40 to 55 minutes, or until the squash is soft and fork-tender.
- Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool until it’s easy to handle. This allows you to safely flake the strands.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the sun-dried tomato sauce. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it has softened, about 5 minutes. This step brings out the sweetness in the onion.
- Incorporate the chicken and minced garlic into the skillet. Spread them out evenly and allow the chicken to cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it has a slight golden-brown color.
- Add the paprika, optional red pepper flakes, coconut milk, and drained sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the sauce to a full boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to the consistency of alfredo sauce, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted, stirring it into the sun-dried tomato mixture.
- Use a fork to release the spaghetti squash strands from the halves and transfer them into the skillet with the sauce.
- Stir well until everything is combined. Taste the dish and adjust with more sea salt or a drizzle of lemon juice to suit your taste.
- Serve the finished dish in bowls and enjoy! For added texture, I love sprinkling some chopped pistachios on top.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, making it a great choice for meal prepping.
