Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash – This low carb alfredo spaghetti squash is rich, flavorful, and indulgent, by swapping out traditional pasta for spaghetti squash, you’ll create a low-carb meal that satisfies every craving.
Why Choose Spaghetti Squash on Keto?
Spaghetti squash is the star of this dish. When cooked, the flesh of the squash pulls apart into spaghetti-like strands, making it a perfect low-carb alternative to pasta. Here’s why spaghetti squash works so well in a keto diet:
- Low in carbs: Spaghetti squash contains only 5-7 grams of net carbs per cup, making it an ideal choice for anyone keeping an eye on their carb intake.
- Nutrient-dense: It’s packed with vitamins A, C, and B6, along with potassium and fiber.
- Versatile: The mild flavor of spaghetti squash pairs well with creamy sauces, such as Alfredo, allowing you to enjoy your favorite pasta-style dishes without the carbs.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Keto Chicken Alfredo
Add extra veggies: For an extra boost of nutrition, sauté spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli and stir them into the Alfredo sauce.
Don’t overcook the squash: Overcooking spaghetti squash can result in mushy strands, so be sure to keep an eye on it while roasting.
Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well due to additives. Freshly grated Parmesan gives the sauce a smoother, creamier texture.
Variations of Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs. They’re juicier and add more flavor.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Sauté the shrimp in butter and garlic until they’re pink and tender.
- Dairy-Free Alfredo: If you’re dairy-free, you can still enjoy this dish! Swap out the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Alfredo
This dish is perfect on its own as a filling and satisfying meal, but you can serve it with a side salad for extra greens. A simple Caesar salad or a cucumber and avocado salad pairs beautifully with the rich Alfredo sauce.
For those not on keto, you could also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crusty roll to dip into the creamy sauce.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
- In the refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: While the sauce can be frozen, spaghetti squash tends to get watery when thawed. If you want to freeze it, store the sauce and the squash separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- To reheat, warm the chicken Alfredo in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or water to loosen it up.
Recipe FAQs
Can I cook the spaghetti squash in the microwave?
Yes, you can! Poke holes all over the squash with a fork and microwave it for 5-7 minutes per side until tender. Keep in mind that roasting brings out more flavor, but the microwave is a quicker option.
How many carbs are in Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash?
A typical serving of this dish contains about 6-8 grams of net carbs, depending on the exact portion size and ingredients used.
What other sauces work well with spaghetti squash?
Spaghetti squash is incredibly versatile. You can use marinara, pesto, or even a creamy tomato sauce for different flavor profiles.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the Alfredo sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently over low heat before tossing with the squash.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include any wheat-based products.
Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash
Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash - This low carb alfredo spaghetti squash is rich, flavorful, and indulgent, by swapping out traditional pasta for spaghetti squash, you’ll create a low-carb meal that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Alfredo:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the chicken)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups low-carb Alfredo sauce
For the Roasted Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil (divided between the two halves)
- 1 tsp 24 Herbs Sprinkle Seasoning (salt-free)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (divided between the halves)
Instructions
Roasting the Spaghetti Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with 24 Herbs Seasoning and salt. Spread the oil evenly (no need for a brush, but feel free to use one!).
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until the squash flesh easily pulls away with a fork.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes, then use a fork to scrape the strands into a bowl.
Preparing the Chicken:
- Mix the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoning mix to coat evenly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (it will finish cooking to 165°F as it rests).
- Stir in the Alfredo sauce and mix well. Remove from heat.
Assembling the Spaghetti Squash Chicken Alfredo: - Ladle the chicken Alfredo mixture into the center of the roasted spaghetti squash halves.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4Amount Per Serving: Calories: 560Total Fat: 14gCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 35g
Final Thoughts
This Keto Chicken Alfredo with Spaghetti Squash is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a creamy, indulgent meal without all the carbs. It’s perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet, but it’s also a great option for anyone looking to cut back on processed pasta and enjoy more vegetables. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can whip up this dish in no time, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!
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