If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and creativity, look no further than these BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe takes the traditional pizza toppings and envelops them in a healthy, roasted spaghetti squash shell. The smoky flavors of BBQ chicken paired with gooey cheese and fresh cilantro create a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fun twist on classic pizza that will have you coming back for seconds!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
These BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats have something for everyone. They are:
- Flavorful: The blend of BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, and mozzarella creates a rich, savory profile that’s hard to resist.
- Healthy: Using spaghetti squash as a base means you can enjoy your favorite pizza flavors with fewer carbs.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors and presentation make these boats a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
What Goes In
To make these delicious BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 red onion, diced, plus a few rings saved for topping
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 ounces shredded smoked gouda
- 4 ounces shredded whole milk mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded BBQ chicken (see below for more details)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, coarsely chopped
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs* (2 pounds if you want leftovers)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (for chicken)
Appliances & Accessories
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following appliances and accessories:
- Oven: For roasting the spaghetti squash and melting the cheese.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To prepare your ingredients efficiently.
- Skillet: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce.
- Spatula or Spoon: For mixing and serving.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked safely.
BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats: From Prep to Plate
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delectable boats:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the squash is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before shredding. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of BBQ sauce, stirring until well coated.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed and toss in the diced red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Assemble the Boats
Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, carefully flip the halves over. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, creating a nest for your toppings. Spoon the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the squash, followed by the BBQ chicken. Top with shredded smoked gouda and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake and Garnish
Return the filled spaghetti squash boats to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, reserved rings of red onion, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Swap Guide
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions:
- Chicken: Substitute with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
- BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces for varied flavors.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
These BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them perfect for meal prep. The combination of flavors is seriously satisfying, and the spaghetti squash provides a delightful twist on traditional pizza. If you’re looking for a dish that pairs well with a salad or a light appetizer, consider serving these boats alongside Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken And Asparagus Skillet for a well-rounded meal.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or pepper jack can add a fun twist.
- Don’t forget the red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!
- These boats are also great for leftovers. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats fresh:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked spaghetti squash boats. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes! While spaghetti squash is ideal for this recipe, you can use other squash varieties like acorn or butternut squash, although the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
How do I make this vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils. You can also use a vegan BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the spaghetti squash and prepare the chicken and toppings a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What’s a good side dish to serve with these boats?
A fresh garden salad or some garlic bread would pair wonderfully with these BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats. You might also enjoy them with Sticky Bbq Chicken Meatballs With Cheesy Polenta for a fun twist!
Ready to Cook?
Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats are not only a delicious way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors but also a great opportunity to impress your family or guests with a unique and healthy twist. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
BBQ Chicken Pizza Spaghetti Squash Boats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Step 2: While the squash is roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before shredding. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of BBQ sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil if needed and toss in the diced red onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Once the spaghetti squash is done roasting, carefully flip the halves over. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, creating a nest for your toppings. Spoon the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the squash, followed by the BBQ chicken. Top with shredded smoked gouda and mozzarella cheese.
- Step 5: Return the filled spaghetti squash boats to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, reserved rings of red onion, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar or pepper jack can add a fun twist.
- Don’t forget the red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat!
- These boats are also great for leftovers. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
