Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale
Try this Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale recipe.
Try this Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- sea salt and black pepper to taste
- 1-1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked and chopped chicken
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 2 medium spaghetti squashes
- 1-2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 medium apples such as gala or fuji cored and chopped small
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped small
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning (i love penzey's)
- Carbohydrate 3.5881425 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.047819375 g
- Fiber 0.663150018334389 g
- Protein 0.419731875 g
- Saturated Fat 0.018778125 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (38g)
- Sodium 40.3494375 mg
- Sugar 2.92499248166561 g
- Trans Fat 0.014205 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Place the spaghetti squashes on a baking sheet and prick them all over with the tip of a sharp knife.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the squashes are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the kale, apples, and onion.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-8 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the poultry seasoning and allspice.
- Stir for 1 minute.
- Add the chicken and chicken broth.
- Bring to a simmer and cook at a rapid simmer for 3-5 minutes until some of the broth evaporates.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
- Using a fork, rake the flesh of the squash into spaghetti-like strands.
- Serve the spaghetti squash topped with the chicken, kale, and apple mixture.
Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale: A Simple Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale recipe has quickly become a staple in our dinner rotation. It’s not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also packed with nutrients and surprisingly easy to prepare, even on a weeknight when time is tight.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples – I often use Honeycrisp or Pink Lady depending on what's at the grocery store. The kale provides a hearty base, and the chicken adds a satisfying protein punch. But the real star of the show is the spaghetti squash. Roasting it brings out its natural sweetness, and the texture is wonderfully similar to pasta, making it a fantastic low-carb alternative.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. There's minimal chopping required, and the cooking process is straightforward. While the squash is roasting, I usually prep the other ingredients, which keeps the entire process moving efficiently. This means less time spent in the kitchen and more time spent enjoying a delicious meal with my family.
Beyond the Dinner Table
This dish isn't just limited to weeknight dinners. It also makes a fantastic meal prep option. You can roast a batch of spaghetti squash on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Simply reheat the squash and top it with your favorite protein and vegetables. I've even been known to pack individual portions for lunch, and it holds up beautifully in a lunchbox.
The combination of sweet apples, savory chicken, and slightly bitter kale is truly a flavor symphony. The poultry seasoning adds a warm, comforting aroma, while the allspice provides a subtle touch of spice. It's a balanced dish that satisfies both my cravings for something comforting and my need for a healthy and nutritious meal.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Apples, and Kale:
- Choose the right squash: Select spaghetti squashes that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid squashes with bruises or soft spots.
- Don't overcook the squash: Overcooked squash will become mushy. Aim for a tender but not overly soft texture.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh kale and apples make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of poultry seasoning, allspice, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Get creative with toppings: This dish is incredibly versatile. Experiment with different toppings, such as toasted nuts, seeds, or crumbled cheese.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of creativity in the kitchen. It's a recipe that brings joy to my family and reminds me of the importance of nourishing our bodies with delicious, healthy food. So, give this recipe a try, and I'm confident it will become a new family favorite!
Embrace the Simplicity
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the complexity of life. But sometimes, the simplest things are the most rewarding. This recipe is a perfect example of that. It's a simple dish with big flavors, a quick and easy weeknight meal, and a healthy option that satisfies both body and soul. So, take a deep breath, embrace the simplicity, and enjoy this delightful dish.
