Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Italian Chicken and Toasted Pine Nuts

The other day, I taught you how to roast spaghetti squash and as promised, here is the first first recipe staring this neat little veggie.

Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Italian Chicken and Toasted Pine Nuts

For starters, you can use store bought pesto for this recipe or you can use my recipe:

Basil Spinach Pesto

3/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1 1/2 cup spinach leaves

1/2 cup toasted pine nuts

3 garlic cloves

1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 black pepper

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice

zest of one lemon

1/2 cup olive oil

Pulse the spinach, basil, pine nuts and garlic in the food processor for a few seconds. Add the remaining ingredients in the food processor and start blending; at the same time, drizzle the olive oil through the top until smooth.

If you didn’t see the post on how to roast spaghetti squash, click here for detailed instructions.

Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Italian Chicken and Toasted Pine Nuts

            serves 2

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Italian seasoning*

½ a roasted spaghetti squash, seasoned with salt and nutmeg

4 T homemade or store bought pesto

2 T pine nuts, toasted

4 basil leaves, chiffonade

Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Heat a non-stick skillet to medium heat and rub Italian seasoning all over chicken. Cook chicken in skillet until cooked through and the juices run clear. *I used a Parmesan bread dip Italian blend. Plain, dried Italian seasoning will work great too. When chicken is cooked, set aside for a few minutes so it can rest.

Meanwhile, if using left over spaghetti squash, reheat and add pesto. Stir to combine. Slice chicken and serve on top of plated spaghetti squash. Top with toasted pine nuts, basil leaves and grated Parmesan. Serve.

I love how the spaghetti squash takes on the pretty green color of the pesto!

Look; it twirls around your fork like pasta! You won't even miss the noodles!

Yep, I'm hooked! I officially love this veggie! This meal is such a winner if you're looking for something healthy, low carb, and satisfying. And with such a pretty presentation, you could even serve this to guests. You're welcome. :)

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