After a long week filled with the monotony of fast food and takeout, I craved a comforting, homemade meal that didn’t compromise my health goals. That’s when I decided to dive into the world of paleo dishes, and let me tell you, this Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash quickly became the star of my kitchen!
Imagine the creamy cashew Alfredo sauce draping itself over tender, roasted spaghetti squash and perfectly seared chicken. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishes the body, tapping into rich flavors without the heaviness. Not only is it a triumph for flavor, but it’s also quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Each bite transports you to comfort food bliss, minus the guilt of traditional pastas. Ready to liven your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!
Why love Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash?
Deliciously Creamy: The cashew Alfredo sauce offers a rich creaminess without dairy, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Health-Conscious Comfort: This dish is a guilt-free alternative to traditional pasta that satisfies cravings while supporting your wellness goals.
Quick Preparation: With a total cook time of just 22-25 minutes, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: Transform the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Both family and guests will rave about this wholesome yet indulgent meal that captures the essence of comfort food.
Easy Cleanup: Working with simple ingredients means less hassle and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
Ingredients for Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Here’s everything you need to make this delightful dish!
For the Cashew Alfredo Sauce
• Cashews – a creamy base that mimics traditional Alfredo without dairy.
• Almond milk – adds a silky consistency while keeping the sauce plant-based.
• Garlic – provides robust flavor; feel free to roast it for added sweetness!
• Lemon juice – brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
• Nutritional yeast – imparts a cheesy flavor, perfect for a paleo touch.
• Fine sea salt – enhances all the flavors in your sauce.
• Dried basil (optional) – adds a lovely aroma and herbal notes.
For the Spaghetti Squash
• Medium/large spaghetti squash – the star ingredient, providing a healthy pasta alternative.
• Avocado oil or avocado oil spray – helps to roast the squash without sticking.
• Sea salt – a simple seasoning that helps bring out the natural flavors.
• Black pepper – adds a gentle heat for a balanced seasoning.
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – choose your preferred cut for tender meat.
• Dried oregano – complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
• Dried basil – a second chance to layer in that herby taste.
• Avocado oil or ghee – great for cooking the chicken while adding richness.
For Garnish
• Fresh basil or parsley – not only adds color but also freshens the dish up beautifully.
With these ingredients, you’ll craft a comforting Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash that’s sure to please!
How to Make Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
-
Blend the Sauce: In a high-speed blender, combine cashews, almond milk, garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, and optional basil. Blend until completely smooth. If needed, heat gently in a saucepan before serving.
-
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the insides with avocado oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper.
-
Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves face down on the baking sheet and roast for 22-25 minutes, or until tender enough to scrape into strands.
-
Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. This will ensure each bite is packed with flavor!
-
Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil or ghee over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side, lowering the heat if it begins to brown too much. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
-
Slice the Chicken: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.
-
Serve and Garnish: Use a fork to scrape the spaghetti strands from the squash and place in a serving bowl. Top with the creamy Alfredo sauce and sliced chicken. Finish with fresh basil or parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Optional: Drizzle with more lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Fridge: Keep any leftover Paleo Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: To freeze, portion the cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy the frozen meal, gently heat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a dash of almond milk if needed. Scrape spaghetti squash strands fresh when serving.
Storage Tip: Store the spaghetti squash and Alfredo sauce separately if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
- Soak Cashews: For the best texture, soak cashews in water for at least an hour before blending. This ensures a creamy and smooth Alfredo sauce.
- Check for Doneness: Avoid overcooking the spaghetti squash; it should be tender but not mushy. Test with a fork after roasting.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken well. This will enhance the overall flavor of your Paleo Chicken Alfredo, making each bite memorable.
- Adjust Consistency: If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of warm almond milk to reach your desired creaminess.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the dish for added nutrition and color.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful, enhancing the overall dish experience.
What to Serve with Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with vibrant sides and satisfying complements.
-
Garlic Bread:
Crunchy, toasted bread infused with garlic pairs wonderfully with the creamy Alfredo, balancing flavors beautifully. -
Steamed Broccoli:
Bright green florets add color and nutrients, providing a fresh crunch that contrasts the rich sauce. -
Garden Salad:
A crisp mix of greens dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing palate cleanser, enhancing each bite. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Their caramelized edges bring a nutty, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy chicken and squash. -
Quinoa Pilaf:
Light and fluffy, quinoa provides a nutritious base and absorbs any remaining sauce for a delightful second dish. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
The zesty bubbles brighten the palate, cutting through the richness of the Alfredo and uplifting the overall dining experience. -
Chocolate Mousse:
This rich, velvety dessert offers a luxurious finish, satisfying any sweet cravings after a savory meal. -
Herbal Tea:
A warm cup of herbal tea soothes the senses and enhances the flavors of your meal, making it a holistic dining experience.
Variations & Substitutions for Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Feel free to experiment with these delightful ideas to create your perfect dish!
-
Nut-Free: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds for a creamy yet nut-free Alfredo alternative that still captures the essence of the original.
-
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in place of almond milk; its richness adds an exotic twist to the sauce while maintaining a vegan profile.
-
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or kale to the chicken for an extra nutritional punch and a pop of color that complements the creamy Alfredo.
-
Lean Protein: Swap chicken thighs for turkey breast or shrimp, both of which cook quickly and offer a lighter protein option.
-
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce for a touch of heat that enhances the overall flavor experience.
-
Herbal Flavor: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of dried basil; they lend a classic Mediterranean touch that’s hard to resist.
-
Creamy Variation: For a thicker, creamier sauce, blend in a tablespoon of tahini with the cashews, adding depth and an extra layer of flavor.
-
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the cashew sauce for a refreshing citrus note that beautifully complements the dish’s richness.
With these substitutions and variations, you’re well on your way to creating a memorable meal that suits your tastes perfectly!
Make Ahead Options
These Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash are a fantastic meal prep option for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the cashew Alfredo sauce up to 3 days in advance by blending the ingredients and storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy richness. The spaghetti squash can be roasted and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days; just be sure to scrape the strands and refrigerate them in a separate container. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove, warm the squash in the microwave, and cook the chicken, ensuring your meal remains just as delicious and satisfying! This way, you’ll have a wholesome dinner at your fingertips with minimal effort.
Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right spaghetti squash?
When choosing a spaghetti squash, look for a firm and heavy one with a smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or soft spots. A medium to large squash typically yields the best results, providing plenty of \”spaghetti\” strands for your dish.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Paleo Chicken Alfredo?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the spaghetti squash and the sauce separate if possible to maintain their textures. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little almond milk to restore the creaminess.
Can I freeze Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash?
Absolutely! To freeze, first cool the dish completely. Portion the cooked chicken and cashew Alfredo sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers. You can freeze these for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Always scrape fresh spaghetti squash strands when serving for an optimal texture.
What should I do if my cashew Alfredo sauce is too thick?
If you find your Alfredo sauce is thicker than you’d like, no need to worry! Just add a splash of warm almond milk and blend until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps the sauce creamy and delicious without losing its wonderful flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for someone with nut allergies?
While this Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash is designed with cashews for creaminess, it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies. As an alternative, you can try using sunflower seeds or a nut-free dairy alternative, like coconut milk based sauce, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
How can I incorporate more vegetables into this dish?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Just cook them alongside the chicken or stir them into the Alfredo sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful, colorful twist.
Creamy Paleo Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Sauce: In a high-speed blender, combine cashews, almond milk, garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, and optional basil. Blend until completely smooth.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, brush the insides with avocado oil, sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper, and roast face down for 22-25 minutes.
- Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil or ghee over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
- Serve and Garnish: Scrape the spaghetti strands from the squash into a serving bowl, top with Alfredo sauce and sliced chicken, and finish with fresh basil or parsley.