Welcome to a recipe that promises to ignite your taste buds and simplify your weeknight cooking: **Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Boats**. This exciting dish offers a unique blend of healthy eating with an irresistible spicy kick, all served conveniently in its own natural bowl. Forget the hassle of extra dishes; these flavorful boats are designed for direct enjoyment, making clean-up a breeze. Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat while savoring a wholesome, satisfying meal!
If you’re exploring the versatility of spaghetti squash, you might also enjoy our Teriyaki Turkey Spaghetti Squash for another delicious twist.
This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. Imagine tender, roasted spaghetti squash strands, beautifully separated and mixed with a creamy, zesty buffalo chicken filling. Each half of the squash acts as its own edible serving vessel, generously topped with a blanket of melting cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a truly satisfying dish that caters to both your craving for comfort food and your desire for a nutritious, low-carb option. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch or an effortless dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor and convenience.
Spaghetti squash has gained immense popularity as a versatile vegetable, offering a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Its mild flavor and unique strand-like texture make it an excellent base for a myriad of dishes, absorbing flavors beautifully. When combined with the bold, tangy, and spicy notes of buffalo chicken, it creates a symphony of taste that’s both exciting and wholesome. This recipe is not just about replacing pasta; it’s about embracing the natural goodness of spaghetti squash and elevating it with a beloved flavor profile. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this healthy, hearty, and undeniably delicious meal.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons why this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Healthy & Delicious: This dish is a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. Spaghetti squash is rich in vitamins and fiber, while the lean chicken provides protein, making this a balanced and nutritious meal. The vibrant buffalo flavors ensure every bite is exciting, proving that wholesome food can be incredibly delicious.
- Perfect for Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a brilliant way to utilize leftover cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, or even convenient canned chicken breast. It cuts down on prep time significantly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The chicken readily absorbs the buffalo sauce, ensuring maximum flavor with minimal effort.
- Effortless Cleanup: One of the standout features of this recipe is the “boat” presentation. By serving the meal directly in the roasted spaghetti squash shells, you eliminate the need for extra plates. This means less washing up and more time to enjoy your meal or relax. It’s a game-changer for stress-free entertaining and everyday family dinners.
- Fantastic Leftovers & Meal Prep: These stuffed squash boats reheat beautifully, making them excellent for meal prepping. Pack them for a satisfying and healthy lunch the next day, or send them in school lunches for a nutritious option that kids will love. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, often tasting even better the second day!
- Customizable Spice Level: While this recipe delivers a noticeable kick, it’s easily adaptable to your family’s preferences. For those with young children or who prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce. If you crave more heat, feel free to be generous with your favorite buffalo sauce to truly make it your own.
📝 Ingredients
Crafting these delectable Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Boats requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
- Spaghetti Squash, 2-3 pounds: This is the star of our dish! Choose a firm, unblemished squash that feels heavy for its size. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor and unique spaghetti-like strands make it the perfect low-carb vessel for our spicy chicken filling.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for roasting the squash, helping it to caramelize slightly and develop a richer flavor, while also preventing it from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Canned Chicken Breast, or leftover rotisserie chicken: This recipe shines with its flexibility! Canned chicken breast, drained well, offers incredible convenience. Alternatively, shredding leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken (like baked or poached chicken breast) works perfectly, adding a depth of flavor and texture.
- Mayonnaise: Used as a creamy base for the buffalo chicken filling, mayonnaise adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. For a lighter option, you can easily use light mayonnaise.
- Sour Cream: This ingredient contributes to the creamy texture and provides a slight tang that beautifully balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. For a healthier or dairy-free alternative, plain Greek yogurt or even cream cheese can be substituted to achieve a similar creamy consistency.
- Hot Sauce: The heart of the “buffalo” flavor! Use your favorite brand of hot sauce. Classic cayenne pepper-based buffalo sauces are excellent, but feel free to experiment with other spicy sauces to customize the heat and flavor profile to your liking. Adjust the amount to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
- Shredded Cheese: A generous topping of melting cheese is a must! Mozzarella is a popular choice for its excellent melting properties, creating a gooey, irresistible layer. However, feel free to use any shredded cheese you have on hand or prefer, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the spaghetti squash during roasting.
🥄 Instructions
Creating these satisfying Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash Boats is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious meal:
- Prepare the Squash: Carefully cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise from stem to end. Using a spoon, scoop out all the seeds and fibrous strands from the center. You want the cavity to be clean.
- Season and Roast: Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup. Generously brush the cut surfaces and edges of the squash halves with olive oil. Season liberally with salt and black pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side up or down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Until Tender: Pop the baking sheet into a cold oven, then set the temperature to 450°F (230°C). Roasting from a cold start allows the squash to cook more evenly. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender enough that you can easily scrape strands with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your squash, so check for tenderness a little earlier if your squash is smaller.
- Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling: While the squash is roasting, prepare your filling. In a deep bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and your preferred hot sauce. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Add your cooked chicken (ensure canned chicken is well-drained and shredded chicken is pulled apart). Stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy buffalo sauce.
- Combine & Stuff: Once the roasted spaghetti squash is tender, use a fork to gently scrape the strands from the inside of each squash half, leaving the outer shell intact. In the same squash shell, add a generous amount of the buffalo chicken mixture. Mix the chicken filling with the spaghetti squash strands right inside the shell, ensuring every forkful gets a blend of flavors and textures.
- Top with Cheese & Final Bake: Pile a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chicken and squash mixture in each boat. Return the stuffed squash boats to the oven, reducing the heat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown on top. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, individual spaghetti squash boats!
💡 Tips for Success
Mastering Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash is easy with a few helpful tips:
- Cutting Spaghetti Squash Safely: Spaghetti squash can have incredibly tough shells, making them tricky to cut. Always use a very sharp chef’s knife and a non-slip cutting board. For added safety, place a kitchen towel underneath your cutting board to prevent any movement. Place the squash horizontally on the board, hold it firmly with one hand, and carefully cut from stem to end. If the stem is particularly hard, you can cut around it and then gently pull the two halves apart. Alternatively, you can pierce the squash multiple times and microwave it for 5-7 minutes to soften the skin before cutting.
- Roasting Perfection: Roasting the spaghetti squash in the oven is generally the preferred method as it yields a richer flavor and drier strands. You can roast it cut-side up or down; I’ve found little difference in the final result, and neither method typically results in a watery squash. The high heat helps to caramelize the squash slightly, enhancing its natural sweetness. Ensure the squash is tender before moving on to the next step.
- Expedited Cooking (Microwave Method): If you’re pressed for time, the microwave can be a quicker option for cooking spaghetti squash. Pierce the squash all over with a fork, then microwave it on high for 7-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender. While faster, this method can sometimes result in slightly less flavorful or more watery squash compared to roasting.
- Chicken Choice & Preparation: This recipe is incredibly versatile regarding your choice of chicken. Leftover rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option for flavor and convenience. Any cooked chicken, such as grilled, baked, or poached chicken breasts, can be shredded or diced. If using canned chicken, make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
- Adjusting Filling Quantity: The amount of buffalo chicken mixture you need can vary based on the size of your spaghetti squash. It’s often a good idea to start by mixing half the suggested amount of buffalo sauce mixture with the chicken and then adding more as needed. If you end up with extra chicken filling, don’t let it go to waste! It’s delicious on sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for salads. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Serving Suggestions: While these boats are a complete meal on their own, you can complement them with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for added vegetables.
- Cheese Varieties: Don’t limit yourself to just mozzarella! Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or a blend of Italian cheeses. A sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles on top after baking can also add an authentic buffalo touch.
💬 Recipe FAQs
Many people discover spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative to pasta, but its flavor and texture are truly unique. When roasted, spaghetti squash strands offer a mildly sweet, almost nutty flavor profile, reminiscent of other roasted vegetables like a delicate, shredded potato. While it can be “forked” into strands that visually resemble spaghetti, it’s important to appreciate it for what it is—a delicious, versatile vegetable—rather than expecting an identical pasta experience. It holds its shape well and readily absorbs the flavors of sauces and seasonings, making it an excellent base for a wide array of dishes.
While roasting in the oven is my preferred method for optimal flavor and texture, microwaving spaghetti squash is a fantastic shortcut when you’re short on time. Here’s a detailed guide to cooking it in the microwave:
- Preparation: Begin by thoroughly washing the squash. To make cutting easier (or if you want to cook it whole), pierce the skin numerous times with a fork or make several small cuts all around the squash with a sharp knife. This allows steam to escape, preventing it from bursting.
- First Microwave Interval: Place the prepared squash in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on medium-high power (around 70% power) for approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Rotate and Continue: Carefully remove the dish from the microwave, rotate the squash, and microwave again for another 5-7 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Repeat the rotating and microwaving process until the squash is tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your squash, so it’s crucial to check for doneness. A good indicator is when the skin gives slightly when pressed, and the strands can be easily scraped with a fork.
- Rest and Finish: Once tender, let the squash rest in the microwave-safe dish for 5-10 minutes. This allows residual heat to finish cooking, and it becomes easier to handle. Then, carefully cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Yes, absolutely! You can roast the spaghetti squash and prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to 2-3 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine the chicken with the squash strands in the shells, top with cheese, and bake as directed until heated through and bubbly.
These boats are quite filling on their own, offering a complete meal. However, they pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, a simple vinaigrette dressing, or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro as a garnish can also add a touch of freshness.
👩🍳 Variations to Try
This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Here are some exciting variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Serving Style: Casserole or Boats: While serving them as individual boats is fun and convenient, you can also turn this into a delicious spaghetti squash casserole dish. After scraping the strands, mix them thoroughly with the buffalo chicken filling, then transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. This is a great option for larger gatherings or potlucks.
- Protein Power-Ups: Not a fan of chicken or looking for something different? Ground turkey, shredded pork, or even plant-based protein crumbles can be excellent substitutes for the chicken, taking on the buffalo flavor beautifully. For a seafood twist, consider adding cooked shrimp or flaked fish.
- Cheese Combinations: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of mozzarella and cheddar offers a classic gooey and sharp flavor. For extra heat, try pepper jack. Crumbled blue cheese, added either into the mixture or sprinkled on top after baking, provides that authentic pungent tang often associated with buffalo wings.
- Spice Level Customization: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce directly into the chicken mixture. For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or opt for a less spicy variety. Adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the buffalo sauce can also introduce a subtle sweetness to balance the heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional content and add more texture by incorporating finely diced vegetables into the chicken filling. Sautéed bell peppers, onions, celery, or even some spinach would blend seamlessly with the buffalo flavors.
- Herbaceous Touches: Fresh herbs can brighten the dish significantly. A sprinkle of fresh chives, parsley, or even a little cilantro (if you enjoy its flavor) added before serving can elevate the taste and appearance.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Adaptations: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based mayonnaise and sour cream (or plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt) for the sauce. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. For a fully vegan dish, replace the chicken with roasted chickpeas, plant-based ground crumbles, or a hearty blend of sautéed mushrooms and black beans, seasoned with buffalo sauce.
This recipe is genuinely easy to make, and its deliciousness comes from its unique blend of taste and texture, not from imitating anything else. It’s a standout dish that offers both comfort and a healthy choice.
📣 Related Recipes
Maintain your healthy eating goals throughout the week without sacrificing flavor. Here are some other nutritious and delicious recipes you might enjoy:
- For a cheesy, veggie-filled meal that’s surprisingly low in carbs, try our Delicious Low Carb Eggplant Parm. It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
- In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this Keto Shrimp Scampi. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect served over zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.
- If you’re a fan of chicken wraps, you’ll love our recipe for Low-Carb PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps. This quick and easy copycat recipe is light on calories but big on taste.
I genuinely hope you love this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Spaghetti Squash recipe! If you give it a try, please snap a pic and hashtag it #amiraspantry — I love seeing your beautiful creations on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Don’t want to miss out on future recipes? Sign up for the FREE Amira’s Pantry newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox with exclusive tips and surprises. And remember to stay in touch with me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for all the latest updates and delicious inspiration.
If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, please consider giving it a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and sharing a photo of your finished dish. Your feedback and creations are always a joy to see! Thank you for your support.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti Squash
Print
Pin
Rate
Save
Ingredients
- 1 medium (2-3 pounds) spaghetti squash
- 2 Tablespoons Olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the buffalo chicken
- 2 (5oz) cans of chicken breasts
- ¼ cup mayonnaise. ,used light.
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 Tablespoons hot sauce , or to taste, you can use any hot sauce of your choice.
- 1 cup cheese any kind you like, I used mozzarella.
Instructions
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and fibrous strands.
- Line your baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and brush it with olive oil.
- Brush the inside of each squash half with more olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the baking sheet in a cold oven. Set the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
- Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender. Cooking time can vary based on squash size, so check for tenderness by piercing with a fork around 25-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a deep bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and hot sauce. Mix well, then add the chicken. If using canned chicken, ensure it is thoroughly drained before adding.
- Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape the strands loose from the cooked interior, keeping them within the squash shell. Add a portion of the buffalo chicken mixture to each squash boat and mix thoroughly with the squash strands.
- Top each stuffed squash half with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese). Return the boats to the oven – this time, reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) – and bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top, about 10-15 minutes.
Video
Notes
- Spaghetti squash has thick shells that can be hard to cut through. You will need a sharp chef’s knife, a non-slip cutting board, and a firm grip. You can also place a kitchen towel under your cutting board to prevent it from moving. Place the spaghetti squash horizontally on the cutting board, hold it firmly in place with one hand, and cut the squash from stem to end. If the stem is too hard to cut through, then just cut the whole squash and stop at the stem, then pull it apart to separate the two halves.
- Roasting spaghetti squash in the oven is my preferred method; cooking it cut side up or down is up to you. I did not notice a difference, and I did not end up with a pool of liquids in my squash boats.
- If you are in a hurry, you can cook the spaghetti squash in the microwave, although I do not like this method as much.
- You can use any cooked chicken you have, and this is a great recipe to use leftover chicken as well.
- You might end up with more chicken mixture than needed; it all depends on the size of the squash you have. So you might start with half the amount and see if you need more. Keep any leftover mixture in your fridge and use it in any other recipe or even stuff it into some sandwiches.
- Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.
Nutrition
This recipe was first published in August 2016 and last updated on October 12, 2021, with important tips, clear step-by-step instructions, and improved readability to enhance your cooking experience.