Chicken Soup With Spaghetti Squash

Chicken soup with spaghetti squash is a wholesome and comforting dish, perfect for those who love traditional chicken soup but want to add a twist of healthiness and texture. Spaghetti squash, a winter vegetable, serves as a nutritious and low-carb substitute for pasta.

When cooked, its flesh pulls apart into spaghetti-like strands, making it an ideal ingredient for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or just to introduce more vegetables into their diet.

This unique combination allows you to savor the heartiness of chicken soup while enjoying the gentle, slightly sweet flavor and satisfying bite of spaghetti squash.

Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal, chicken soup with spaghetti squash is a delicious and nutritious choice that’s both comforting and invigorating.

How To Make Chicken Soup With Spaghetti Squash

Recipe Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Yield: serves 4

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Baking sheet
• Fork
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Preparing The Spaghetti Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.

2. Drizzle the inside of each half with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.

4. Once cool, use a fork to scrape the squash strands into a bowl. Set aside.

Crafting The Soup

1. While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sear in the pot until golden, about 5 minutes each side.

3. Remove the chicken, set it aside, and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

5. Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme and bay leaf, and bring to a simmer.

6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and cook for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and then return it to the pot.

8. Stir in the roasted spaghetti squash strands and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Nutrition Facts Of Chicken Soup With Spaghetti Squash

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugars: 8 g

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cozy bowl of chicken soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a light side salad.

Tips And Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• You can also incorporate other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• If you prefer, you can use dark meat like thighs for more flavor.

Health Benefits Of Chicken Soup With Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is a fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta, rich in vitamins A, C, and B, and minerals like potassium and magnesium. Combined with lean chicken, it makes this soup not just delicious but also packed with nutrients that support overall health.

Special Note

If you have leftovers, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for a month.

Conclusion

chicken soup with spaghetti squash is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the comforting warmth of chicken soup with the unique texture and flavor of spaghetti squash.

This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal, offering a good balance of protein, vegetables, and nutrients. It’s also adaptable to various dietary preferences and can be easily modified to be gluten-free or lower in calories.

Whether served as a cozy meal on a chilly evening or as a nourishing dish when feeling under the weather, chicken soup with spaghetti squash is a delightful twist on the classic chicken soup that is sure to please the palate.”