Name: Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 whole Spaghetti Squash (A firm, heavy squash works best.); 1 tsp Olive Oil (Enhances flavor when roasting the squash.); 2 tbsp Sesame Oil (Use 1 tbsp for sautéing and 1 tbsp for finishing.); 1 small Onion (Finely chopped.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 tbsp Ginger (Finely chopped.); 1 large Carrot (Julienned.); 3 cups Chinese Cabbage (Shredded.); 1/3 cup Green Onions/Scallions (Chopped.); 1.5 cups Shredded Chicken (Can be replaced with tofu or shrimp.); 2 tbsp Coconut Aminos (Or Tamari/Soy Sauce for gluten-free.); 1 tsp Honey (Optional.); 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar

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As the vibrant colors of spring begin to bloom, I find myself craving dishes that feel light yet satisfying. Enter my Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken and Veggies—a healthful take on a classic that never fails to brighten my plate. The moment the aroma of sautéed garlic and ginger fills my kitchen, I know dinner will be an extraordinary experience.

What I love about this recipe is its versatility—you can easily swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, or toss in your favorite seasonal veggies like snap peas or bell peppers for an extra crunch. Not only is it gluten-free and low-calorie, but it also effortlessly pleases the taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a feast for the senses. Join me in celebrating the flavors of homemade goodness with this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Freshness at its Core: This dish highlights the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients, making every bite a celebration of spring flavors.
Healthy Yet Hearty: You’ll savor a guilt-free meal that’s low in calories and gluten-free, perfect for health-conscious eaters.
Customizable Delight: Adding your favorite protein—whether chicken, tofu, or shrimp—and vegetables guarantees a unique experience every time.
Quick and Simple: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for busy families or dinner parties, it’s a sure way to impress guests while keeping them asking for seconds! Don’t forget to check out my Savory Turkey Avocado for another crowd-pleasing dish!

Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash
• Spaghetti Squash – A firm, heavy squash works best for the perfect texture.
• Olive Oil (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor when roasting the squash.

For the Sautéed Veggies
• Sesame Oil (2 tbsp total) – Use 1 tbsp for sautéing and 1 tbsp for finishing to add authentic flavor.
• Small Onion (1, finely chopped) – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic (2 cloves) – Essential for creating an aromatic base that fills your kitchen with warmth.
• Ginger (2 tbsp, finely chopped) – Provides a zesty kick that brightens up the flavors beautifully.
• Large Carrot (1, julienned) – Brings a vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
• Chinese Cabbage (3 cups, shredded) – Adds nutrition and wilts nicely when cooked.
• Green Onions/Scallions (1/3 cup) – Chopped as a fresh garnish adding a burst of flavor.

For the Protein & Sauce
• Shredded Chicken (1 1/2 cups) – A great source of protein that can be replaced with tofu or shrimp.
• Coconut Aminos (2 tbsp) or Tamari/Soy Sauce – A gluten-free option that offers an umami taste essential for chow mein.
• Honey (1 tsp) – Optional to add sweetness if desired; can be omitted for a Whole30 dish.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tsp) – Brightens the overall flavor profile beautifully.

Relish in the simplicity and joy of preparing this Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken and Veggies that turns everyday ingredients into a cherished meal!

How to Make Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for roasting your spaghetti squash to perfection.
Prepare Spaghetti Squash: Slice your spaghetti squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Rub the cut sides with olive oil and place them cut side down on a baking tray. Bake for 30 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Scrape Squash Strands: Allow the squash to cool slightly, then use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into strands, resembling spaghetti. Set them aside for later use.
Sauté Aromatics: In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 4 minutes.
Add Veggies: Toss in the ginger, julienned carrot, and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for approximately 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet retain some crunch.
Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine coconut aminos (or tamari/soy sauce), honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Combine All Ingredients: Fold in the squash strands, shredded chicken, and green onions into the pan with the sautéed veggies. Pour the prepared sauce over and gently stir everything until well-coated and heated through.

Optional: Garnish with additional green onions for a lovely touch of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken and Veggies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the spaghetti squash up to 24 hours in advance. After cooling, scrape the strands and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, sauté the veggies and prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate them separately to maintain their fresh taste. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sautéed veggies, mix in the squash strands and chicken, pour over the sauce, and stir until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy nights!

Expert Tips for Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Choose the Right Squash: Select a firm, heavy spaghetti squash for the best texture. Overripe squashes can lead to mushy strands.
Perfect Cooking Time: Bake the squash until tender but not overly soft. You want strands that hold together, mimicking traditional noodles in your chow mein.
Shortcut Method: For a quick fix, microwave a pricked spaghetti squash for 10 minutes instead of roasting—perfect if you’re short on time!
Veggie Variety: Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonal vegetables. Craving extra crunch? Add snap peas or bell peppers to your Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein!
Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Custom Protein Options: Switch up your protein by using tofu or shrimp instead of chicken. This allows flexibility while keeping the dish delectable!

Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein Variations

Feel free to mix and match flavors to create a unique twist on this delightful dish.

Tofu Swap: Replace the shredded chicken with firm tofu. Simply cube it and sauté until golden for a hearty vegan option.
Shrimp Option: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist; add a few minutes to the cooking time for perfectly tender shrimp.
Veggie Boost: Toss in snap peas or bell peppers for a crunch that elevates the texture and adds a burst of color.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving to enhance the nutty flavor and provide delightful crunch.
Sauce Variations: Substitute coconut aminos with hoisin or sriracha for a bolder flavor profile. Adjust sweetness as per your taste.
Heat Level: Add red pepper flakes to the sauté for a spicy kick, or serve with sriracha for those who like it hot.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten the dish and introduce new flavors that excite the palate.
Noodle Twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, try spiralizing zucchini or carrots alongside the squash for an even more colorful noodle dish.

Let your creativity shine as you explore these variations!

How to Store and Freeze Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: You can freeze the chow mein for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture and flavor.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked chow mein at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

What to Serve with Healthy Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken and Veggies?

The comforting embrace of this delectable dish invites a vibrant array of sides and additions to create a complete meal experience.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crispy delights add a satisfying crunch and pair perfectly with the lightness of the chow mein. Dip them in sweet chili sauce for an extra zing!
Zesty Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and cool, this salad brings a wonderful contrast in temperature and texture, balancing the heartiness of the chow mein.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, these breadsticks add a touch of indulgence for those craving a hearty bite beside their noodles.
Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and sesame oil, these green beans offer a nutty flavor that complements the Asian-inspired elements of the chow mein.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet Thai classic will satisfy your sweet tooth while echoing the dish’s fresh flavors.
Coconut Water: Refreshing and hydrating, a glass of coconut water or iced green tea cleanses the palate beautifully without overwhelming the senses.
Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of this silky soup creates a cozy atmosphere, providing a delightful appetizer to whet your appetite for the chow mein.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crunchy and caramelized, these provide an earthy component that pairs well with the well-rounded flavors of the dish.
Fruit Smoothies: A smoothie with tropical fruits can be a refreshing pairing, lightly sweetening the meal and adding a burst of vitamins.
Chilled Sake: For those who enjoy a little beverage with dinner, a glass of chilled sake enhances the meal’s flavors and adds an element of authentic dining.

Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein with Chicken and Veggies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right spaghetti squash?
Absolutely! For the best spaghetti squash, look for a firm, heavy squash that feels solid in your hands. The color should be vibrant yellow without any dark spots or soft areas, which indicate overripeness. A squash that feels too light may not have enough flesh.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep the dish moist when reheating, add a splash of water before placing it on the stovetop over medium heat. This will help revitalize the veggies and pasta-like strands.

Can I freeze my chow mein leftovers?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze your Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Portion it out to make reheating easier. Just ensure each container is tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my spaghetti squash is too soft?
If your spaghetti squash is too soft when you cut it open, this typically means it was overripe. To avoid mushy strands for chow mein, look for squashes that are firm and well-formed. Next time, whether baking or microwaving, aim to cook it just until tender so it retains its texture. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the squash, so keep a close eye!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! This recipe is gluten-free, particularly if you choose coconut aminos or tamari. For those with allergies, it’s always best to review ingredient labels to ensure everything meets your dietary needs. If you’re serving this dish to pets, be cautious—avoid common allergens such as onions and garlic. Instead, consider setting aside some veggies without these seasonings for a pet-friendly treat!

What are some good vegetable additions?
The more the merrier! Get creative with your veggies by adding snap peas, bell peppers, or even broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. You can incorporate a variety of colors and textures into your Savory Delicious Spaghetti Squash Chow Mein. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s in season or what you have on hand!