Chicken And Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash

Name: Chicken And Rice Stuffed Acorn Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced bell pepper; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Balanced Eats

I recently stumbled upon the magic of stuffed acorn squash, and I have to say, it's become one of my go-to comfort meals. The sweet, tender squash provides a perfect vessel for the savory chicken and rice filling, making it a hearty dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. With each bite, I enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, and it's a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into my menu. Whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a delightful dinner party, this recipe always impresses.

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:09:35.930Z

Creating stuffed acorn squash has become a new favorite in my kitchen. I love how easily it combines leftover chicken and rice, transforming them into something special and visually stunning. My secret is seasoning the filling generously and adding spices like cumin and paprika to elevate the dish, which continually surprises my family.

After experimenting with various fillings, I learned that taking the time to roast the acorn squash until it's perfectly tender makes all the difference. It caramelizes the natural sugars within, enhancing the overall flavor. Plus, it looks beautiful on the plate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The sweet acorn squash pairs beautifully with savory filling.
It's a nutritious meal packed with protein and vegetables.
Great for meal prep; reheats beautifully for quick lunches.

Choosing the Right Acorn Squash

When selecting acorn squash, look for ones that are dark green and firm with no soft spots. A smaller squash often has a sweeter flavor, while a larger one will pack more volume for stuffing. If you find any that are slightly orange or brownish, they may be overripe and less appealing in taste. Remember that the best squash should be heavy for its size, indicating that it's full of moisture and flavor.

To make cutting the squash easier, I recommend microwaving it for 2-3 minutes first. This softens the skin, allowing for a cleaner cut and preventing any accidents with slipping knives. Once halved, you can easily scoop out the seeds with a spoon, preparing them for roasting.

Enhancing the Filling Flavor

The combination of chicken, rice, and vegetables creates a robust filling, but you can elevate its flavor even more. Consider roasting your bell peppers before adding them to the skillet; this will coax out their natural sweetness. Additionally, you could include spices like chili powder or a splash of lime juice to add a zesty kick, making each bite even more enjoyable.

For added depth, try incorporating some shredded cheese to the filling mixture. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella will melt into the filling beautifully and add an irresistible creamy texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add cheese to achieve that perfect, bubbly finish.

Storing and Reheating

This stuffed acorn squash makes a fantastic meal prep option. Once cooled, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you find the squash is drying out during reheating, cover it with foil to retain moisture.

If you'd like to freeze this dish, I suggest freezing the filling separately from the squash. This way, you can reassemble and bake fresh whenever you want. Freeze the filling in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before stuffing the squash and baking.

Ingredients

Stuffed Acorn Squash Ingredients

2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced bell pepper
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Acorn Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil, season with salt, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Stuff and Bake

Once the squash is roasted, carefully flip it cut-side up. Fill each half generously with the chicken and rice mixture. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top and place back in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty stuffed acorn squash!

Pro Tips

To make this dish even heartier, feel free to add black beans or corn to the filling mixture. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or other proteins as desired.

Possible Substitutions

If you're looking for a different protein option, shredded turkey works exceptionally well in place of chicken—especially after Thanksgiving! Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, try using black beans or quinoa combined with diced mushrooms for a hearty texture. Just be sure to adjust the cook time accordingly depending on your substitution.

For a grain-free alternative, consider using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice, which will keep the dish lower in carbs while still providing that satisfying texture. Simply sauté the cauliflower rice for a few minutes before adding it to the filling mixture to ensure it's perfectly tender.

Serving Suggestions

To turn this dish into an exceptional dinner party centerpiece, serve it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will complement the sweetness of the acorn squash beautifully. You can also serve with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up any leftover flavors on the plate.

For an added touch, sprinkle some pomegranate seeds over the finished stuffed squash before serving. They add a burst of color and a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the filling, making it visually appetizing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to stuff the squash.

→ What can I use instead of acorn squash?

If you can't find acorn squash, you can use butternut squash or even bell peppers as alternatives for stuffing.

→ How long can leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed squash?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed acorn squash. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.