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Prep Time: 45 Minutes Cook Time: 20 Minutes |
Ready In: 65 Minutes Servings: 5 |
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While dreaming up a healthier pasta dish, I decided to experiment with spaghetti squash. After a few tries, I settled on this delicious casserole bursting with flavor but not fat. Christina Morris, Calabasas, California Ingredients:
1 medium spaghetti squash (4 pounds) |
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained |
2 tablespoons prepared pesto |
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder |
1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning |
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs |
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese |
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch cubes |
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon olive oil, divided |
1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms |
1 medium onion, chopped |
1 garlic clove, minced |
1/2 cup chicken broth |
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese |
Directions:
1. Cut squash in half lengthwise; discard seeds. Place squash cut side down on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 14-16 minutes or until tender.
2. Meanwhile, in a blender, combine the tomatoes, pesto, garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Cover and process until blended; set aside. In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken in 1 tablespoon oil until no longer pink; remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, saute mushrooms and onion in remaining oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the broth, chicken and reserved tomato mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
4. When squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to separate strands. In a large ovenproof skillet, layer half of the squash, chicken mixture and reserved crumb mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 15 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Broil 3-4 in. from the heat for 5-6 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown. Yield: 5 servings.
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