Bright, zesty, and satisfying—this Lemon Chicken & Spaghetti Squash recipe is a low-carb twist on a classic pasta dish. The spaghetti squash delivers the perfect “noodle” texture without the carbs, while the lemon chicken adds fresh flavor and healthy protein.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (~1.2 kg / 2.5 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Lemon Chicken:
- 680g (1 ½ lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 120ml (½ cup) chicken broth
- 60ml (¼ cup) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 60ml (¼ cup) heavy cream (optional for creamier sauce)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Roast the Spaghetti Squash
- Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.
- Cut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Place cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35–40 minutes until tender.
- Once cooled slightly, use a fork to scrape strands into “spaghetti.”
2. Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 74°C / 165°F).
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Lemon Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest; stir to combine.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes, then stir in heavy cream if using.
4. Combine & Serve
- Slice chicken and place over spaghetti squash strands.
- Drizzle with lemon sauce, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Macros (Per Serving – without heavy cream)
- Calories: ~285 kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Protein: 30g
- Total Carbs: 9g
- Net Carbs: 7g
Pro Tips:
- Swap parsley for fresh basil for an Italian twist.
- Add capers for a briny, Mediterranean flavor.
- Spaghetti squash can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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