25+ Flavorful Valentine’s Day Squash and Chicken Recipes for a Perfect Dinner

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your loved ones just how much you care by crafting a special, home-cooked meal.

While chocolates and flowers are classic gifts, a thoughtful dinner can make the day truly memorable. One way to impress your partner is by creating dishes that are both comforting and elegant.

Squash and chicken make an ideal pairing—they’re hearty, healthy, and versatile, making them perfect for dishes that feel indulgent but not overly heavy.

From roasted delicata and stuffed spaghetti squash to paprika-spiced chicken, the possibilities are endless.

To help you make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable, we’ve gathered over 25 delicious squash and chicken recipes.

Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh, rich and hearty, or even a bit sweet, there’s a recipe here that will suit any palate and make your celebration one to remember.

These recipes are easy to follow and full of love—perfect for a romantic dinner at home.

25+ Flavorful Valentine’s Day Squash and Chicken Recipes for a Perfect Dinner

With these 25+ squash and chicken recipes, you’re all set to impress your Valentine with a dinner that’s as delicious as it is heartfelt.

Cooking a homemade meal is an intimate gesture that can make the day feel even more special.

Whether you choose a simple yet elegant dish or go all out with a multi-course dinner, these recipes will add a touch of warmth and romance to your celebration.

So, put on your apron, preheat that oven, and create a meal that will show your loved one just how much they mean to you.

Here’s to a Valentine’s Day filled with delicious food, heartfelt conversations, and cherished memories!

Honey Garlic Chicken with Roasted Butternut Squash

This dish is perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner with a blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. Roasted butternut squash paired with tender chicken glazed with honey and garlic creates a well-balanced meal that’s both heartwarming and festive.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the honey, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then coat them with the honey-garlic mixture.
4. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet alongside the butternut squash.
5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the squash is tender and caramelized, turning the squash halfway through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve over a bed of squash and garnish with chopped parsley.

This dish combines the subtle sweetness of honey and the warm flavors of garlic with the soft, caramelized notes of butternut squash. It’s an excellent choice for a Valentine’s Day meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. The bright color of the squash adds a touch of festivity to the plate, making it perfect for the occasion.

Spicy Chicken and Acorn Squash Skillet

A bold twist on a romantic dish, this skillet recipe brings together the earthy flavors of acorn squash with juicy, seasoned chicken for a hearty and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 large acorn squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into wedges
• 2 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on (or boneless, if preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken thighs with this spice mixture.
3. Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the chicken and add the acorn squash slices around the chicken.
4. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with a bit of salt and black pepper.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the squash is tender.
6. Before serving, drizzle the maple syrup over the chicken and squash. Garnish with cilantro if desired.

The combination of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors in this dish makes it an intriguing choice for a Valentine’s Day meal. The acorn squash’s natural sweetness complements the robust spices on the chicken, and the maple syrup adds a touch of luxury. This hearty dish will not only warm up your evening but also impress with its delicious balance of flavors.

Lemon Herb Chicken with Delicata Squash

For a lighter yet elegant Valentine’s Day option, try this recipe that features tender lemon herb chicken paired with delicata squash for a dish that is as beautiful as it is tasty.

Ingredients:

• 2 delicata squashes, sliced into half-moons
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the delicata squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Arrange the squash slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the chicken strips with the lemon juice and zest, rosemary, thyme, and the remaining olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken mixture. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown. Remove and set aside.
5. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and let it simmer for a minute. Pour this over the chicken in the skillet and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
6. When the squash is tender and slightly caramelized and the chicken is cooked through, remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.

This dish’s bright and herbaceous flavors provide a refreshing yet satisfying dinner option for Valentine’s Day. The delicata squash’s creamy texture pairs beautifully with the lemony, herb-seasoned chicken, and the chicken broth keeps the dish moist while enhancing the flavors. Perfect for an evening that’s light yet full of love and flavor, it will show that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Spaghetti Squash

This dish pairs the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze with tender, juicy chicken and the nutty, subtly sweet flavors of spaghetti squash. It’s a perfect choice for a light but impressive Valentine’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the spaghetti squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 40 minutes or until the squash is tender and strands can be pulled out with a fork.
2. While the squash is roasting, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute before adding the balsamic vinegar and honey. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a glaze.
4. Once the squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands into a bowl and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
5. Slice the cooked chicken and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti squash and garnish with chopped basil and grated Parmesan if desired.

The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in this dish makes it an ideal Valentine’s Day meal. The balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch that elevates the chicken, while the spaghetti squash serves as a perfect, light base that complements the main flavors. This meal is both satisfying and refined, perfect for a special occasion without feeling heavy.

Rosemary Lemon Chicken with Roasted Acorn Squash and Apples

Infused with the fragrant combination of rosemary and lemon, this dish pairs tender chicken with acorn squash and apples for a dish that sings with the flavors of winter. The subtle sweetness of the apples adds an extra layer of warmth, making it perfect for a romantic dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 large acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into wedges
• 1 apple, cored and sliced
• 2 chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the acorn squash wedges and apple slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice and zest with the rosemary, honey, and remaining olive oil. Rub this mixture over the chicken breasts and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden. Remove from heat and place the skillet in the oven.
5. Roast the squash and apples for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender and the apples are caramelized.
6. Add the cubed butter to the skillet with the chicken and let it melt into the chicken as it roasts for the last 10 minutes.
7. Serve the chicken with the roasted squash and apples on the side.

The aromatic notes of rosemary and the zestiness of lemon enhance the chicken, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and brightened by the roasted squash and apples. This heartwarming meal is perfect for a cozy Valentine’s Day dinner that showcases a comforting mix of sweet, savory, and citrusy elements.

Creamy Coconut Chicken with Butternut Squash Noodles

This dish is a decadent and nutritious option for a romantic dinner. The rich, velvety coconut sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and the lightly sweet butternut squash noodles for a meal that feels indulgent but balanced.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, spiralized into noodles
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the curry powder and stir for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and stir until combined. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the butternut squash noodles to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the noodles are tender but still have some bite.
5. Add the chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Serve garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

This dish combines the warmth of coconut and curry with the freshness of ginger, creating a rich and aromatic sauce that complements the chicken and butternut squash noodles. It’s a unique and special Valentine’s Day option that feels luxurious but is easy to make. The bright notes of lime and cilantro add a final touch that makes each bite refreshing and unforgettable.

Lemon Herb Chicken with Delicata Squash Rings

A refreshing, light dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for sharing on Valentine’s Day. The combination of tender chicken and sweet, caramelized delicata squash rings will make your dinner special and unforgettable.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium delicata squashes, sliced into rings and seeds removed
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the delicata squash rings on the baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper and roast for 20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and chopped rosemary. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the lemon juice and fresh thyme, and cook for another minute.
5. Plate the chicken breasts with the delicata squash rings on the side. Spoon the lemon herb sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.

The light, citrusy notes from the lemon and the earthy sweetness of the delicata squash come together beautifully in this dish. It’s a perfect meal for a Valentine’s dinner, with the herbs and lemon brightening each bite and making it feel like spring is in the air. The delicata squash adds a gourmet touch that pairs well with the tender chicken.

Maple Dijon Chicken with Roasted Kabocha Squash

This dish brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of maple and Dijon with perfectly roasted kabocha squash. It’s rich yet light and perfect for an elegant Valentine’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 small kabocha squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into wedges
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the kabocha squash wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden and tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Set aside.
4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Reduce the heat and pour the maple Dijon sauce over the chicken, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to coat the chicken evenly.
6. Serve the chicken with the roasted kabocha squash and garnish with fresh thyme.

The pairing of sweet maple and tangy Dijon adds a sophisticated twist to the chicken, while the kabocha squash’s rich, natural sweetness balances out the flavors. This dish is hearty but not heavy, making it perfect for an intimate Valentine’s Day celebration. The combination of warm, caramelized squash and the savory-sweet chicken will create a memorable dinner experience.

Spicy Garlic Chicken with Roasted Acorn Squash and Pomegranate

This dish combines the heat of spicy garlic chicken with the earthy flavor of roasted acorn squash, topped with sweet and tangy pomegranate seeds for a Valentine’s Day dinner that feels festive and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squashes, peeled, seeded, and cut into wedges
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the acorn squash wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Arrange on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden and tender.
3. In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, sriracha sauce, and remaining olive oil. Season the chicken slices with salt and black pepper, then coat with the spicy garlic mixture.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Serve the spicy garlic chicken alongside the roasted acorn squash. Top the squash with pomegranate seeds and garnish with fresh cilantro.

The combination of the spicy garlic chicken and the caramelized, sweet acorn squash creates a unique, bold flavor profile that will impress your Valentine. The pomegranate seeds add a pop of color and a refreshing burst of flavor, making this dish visually appealing and perfectly balanced in taste. This hearty meal brings a special warmth, ideal for a romantic evening.

Herb-Rubbed Chicken with Butternut Squash and Cranberry Glaze

This dish is a warm and hearty option for Valentine’s Day, combining tender chicken with sweet and savory butternut squash and a cranberry glaze that adds a festive touch. The combination of fresh herbs and a cranberry reduction creates an irresistible main course that’s perfect for celebrating love.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Arrange them on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.
3. While the squash roasts, season the chicken breasts with sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
4. In the same skillet, add the cranberry sauce and honey, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened.
5. Serve the chicken with roasted butternut squash and drizzle the cranberry glaze over the chicken. Garnish with fresh rosemary.

The sweetness of the cranberry glaze pairs beautifully with the savory, herb-rubbed chicken and the natural sweetness of the butternut squash. This dish is both comforting and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for a special Valentine’s dinner. The vibrant flavors and the beautiful color contrast will create an inviting, romantic meal perfect for sharing.

Garlic Butter Chicken with Spiced Acorn Squash

This dish is simple yet full of bold flavors, featuring pan-seared chicken with a rich garlic butter sauce and spiced acorn squash. The aromatic garlic butter infuses the chicken, while the warm, spiced acorn squash provides a touch of sweetness and heat.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into wedges
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the acorn squash wedges with 1 tablespoon of butter, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Place the wedges on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute before adding the chicken thighs. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
4. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt. Swirl the pan to coat with the garlic butter and pour it over the chicken.
5. Serve the garlic butter chicken with the roasted acorn squash. Garnish with fresh parsley.

The combination of rich garlic butter chicken and the warm, spiced acorn squash creates a dish that is comforting and packed with flavor. The savory and slightly sweet elements play off each other perfectly, providing a well-rounded and cozy meal that is perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day. The simple, straightforward preparation and rich, aromatic flavors will make your evening special.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Spaghetti Squash

A delightful dish that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness to the chicken, while the roasted spaghetti squash creates a comforting and healthy side that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the spaghetti squash halves cut-side down and roast for 30-35 minutes until tender. Use a fork to scrape out the “noodles” and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the glaze thickens. Set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute before adding the cooked spaghetti squash. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper and toss to coat.
5. Slice the chicken breasts and serve over the spaghetti squash. Drizzle the balsamic glaze on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

The rich balsamic glaze gives the chicken a sweet and tangy depth, pairing perfectly with the mild, slightly nutty flavor of the roasted spaghetti squash. This dish is a wonderful option for a light and elegant Valentine’s Day meal that feels refined and special. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, balancing out the warm, rich flavors.

Lemon Herb Chicken with Delicata Squash and Arugula Salad

This vibrant dish is perfect for Valentine’s Day with its combination of zesty lemon-herb chicken, sweet delicata squash, and a refreshing arugula salad. The flavors are balanced beautifully, with the lemony brightness complementing the subtle sweetness of the squash and the peppery bite of the arugula.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into half-moons
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh arugula
• 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the delicata squash slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.
2. While the squash roasts, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub the mixture onto the chicken breasts and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
3. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, parmesan, and pine nuts (if using). Add a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss to combine.
5. Plate the lemon herb chicken with roasted delicata squash and a side of arugula salad.

The bright, tangy lemon herb flavor enhances the chicken, making it perfect for spring-like, fresh Valentine’s dining. The roasted delicata squash offers a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula and the nuttiness of the toasted pine nuts. This dish provides a light, balanced, and sophisticated option for a romantic meal.

Paprika Spiced Chicken with Acorn Squash and Pomegranate Relish

A perfect blend of savory and sweet, this dish features paprika-spiced chicken alongside acorn squash topped with a refreshing pomegranate relish. The combination of warm spices and the juicy burst of pomegranate seeds elevates this meal to a festive and romantic level.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 acorn squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the acorn squash wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. In a bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mix over the chicken thighs.
3. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
4. In a small bowl, mix the pomegranate seeds, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and honey to make the pomegranate relish.
5. Serve the paprika spiced chicken with the roasted acorn squash and top with the pomegranate relish.

The smoky paprika spice adds depth to the chicken, while the pomegranate relish provides a refreshing and slightly sweet contrast. The roasted acorn squash completes the dish with its tender texture and natural sweetness. This dish is ideal for a cozy, romantic dinner that feels both elegant and full of flavor.

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Garlic Chicken and Spinach

A heart-healthy and satisfying choice for Valentine’s Day, this stuffed spaghetti squash is loaded with garlic chicken and sautéed spinach, making it a perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s visually appealing and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a special dinner at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 large spaghetti squash, halved and seeds removed
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the spaghetti squash halves cut-side down and roast for 30-35 minutes until tender. Use a fork to scrape out the “noodles” and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add the chopped spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender.
4. Mix the cooked chicken and spinach into the scraped-out spaghetti squash “noodles.” Add half of the parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Stuff the mixture back into the spaghetti squash halves and sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top. Place them back in the oven for 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

The garlic chicken and spinach create a savory filling that pairs wonderfully with the mild, slightly sweet flavor of the roasted spaghetti squash. The parmesan adds a touch of richness, making this dish both hearty and sophisticated. This meal is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a dish that’s healthy, filling, and full of flavor, perfect for sharing with a loved one.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!