Name: Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 Spaghetti Squash; 1 lb chicken breast or chicken thighs, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp avocado oil, for sautéing; 2 green onions (scallions), chopped (separate white and green parts); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 eggs, whisked; 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/2 inch fresh ginger, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp coconut aminos, for marinating chicken; Salt, to taste; A handful of bean sprouts, for garnish; 3 tbsp cashew butter; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1/2 lime, juiced; 1/4 cup coconut aminos; 2 heaping tbsp fish sauce; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup cashews, crushed; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Green part of the 2 green onions (scallions)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 49 reviews

If you are craving a flavorful, nutritious twist on a classic favorite, this Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a luscious cashew butter sauce over light, spiralized spaghetti squash noodles for a dish that is both satisfying and surprisingly healthy. The marriage of savory, tangy, and nutty flavors elevates familiar Pad Thai into a colorful, wholesome meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of six bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding a different ingredient: a large clear glass bowl in the center contains several layers of raw pale pink chicken slices; to the top left is a white bowl filled with thinly cut bright orange carrot strips; below that, a white bowl holds yellowish bean sprouts with white stems; to the bottom left is a white bowl with several layers of bright red sliced bell peppers; at the bottom right, a small white plate contains three sections of chopped ingredients, including pale green sliced spring onions, pale yellow ginger strips, and finely chopped white garlic; a whole green lime sits to the right of the bowls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe relies on simple yet powerful ingredients that work harmoniously to build extraordinary taste and texture. Each component plays an important role — from the tender chicken to the crisp fresh vegetables and the creamy, tangy sauce that ties everything together.

Spaghetti Squash: The perfect low-carb noodle substitute with a naturally mild flavor and satisfying bite.
Chicken Breast or Thighs (1 lb): Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and a tender protein base.
Avocado Oil (3 tbsp): Ideal for sautéing because of its high smoke point and neutral taste.
Green Onions (2, scallions): Adds fresh, mild onion flavor — keep the white and green parts separate for different uses.
Garlic (2 cloves): Minced to provide aromatic depth and warmth.
Eggs (2, whisked): Adds richness and a silky texture to the dish.
Carrots (1 cup, thinly sliced): Bring sweetness and vibrant color.
Red Bell Pepper (1/3 cup, thinly sliced): Adds crunch and a pop of bright color.
Fresh Ginger (1/2 inch, thinly sliced): Contributes a zesty, spicy note that lifts the entire dish.
Coconut Aminos (3 tbsp for marinating, plus 1/4 cup for sauce): A savory, gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
Salt: Use sparingly, since other ingredients add saltiness; helps balance flavors perfectly.
Bean Sprouts (a handful): For garnish and crunch.
Cashew Butter (3 tbsp): The star ingredient in the sauce, delivering creamy nuttiness.
Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp): Brightens the sauce with acidity.
Lime (1/2 squeezed + wedges): Adds refreshing citrus tang.
Fish Sauce (2 heaping tbsp): Deepens umami flavors in the sauce.
Sesame Oil (1 tsp): Adds a fragrant, slightly toasted aroma.
Cashews (1/4 cup crushed): For crunch and garnish.

How to Make Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash Noodles

Start by cooking the whole spaghetti squash until tender—baked or steamed works great. Once cooked, use a fork to shred the flesh into spaghetti-like strands. This replaces traditional noodles, giving you a lighter, gluten-free base that’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce and toppings.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Thinly slice your chicken breast or thighs and place them in a bowl with salt, coconut aminos, and a pinch of ground ginger. This quick marinade infuses the meat with subtle sweetness and spicy warmth, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor before it even hits the pan.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Pad Thai Sauce

In a small bowl, thoroughly mix cashew butter, rice vinegar, lime juice, coconut aminos, fish sauce, and sesame oil. This rich and tangy sauce will coat the chicken and vegetables, marrying everything with that signature Pad Thai taste in a creamy, nutty twist.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon or two of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sauté for about five minutes until it’s cooked through and just starting to brown. Remove it from the skillet to keep it tender while you cook the eggs and veggies.

Step 5: Scramble the Eggs

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and pour in the whisked eggs. Stir gently until they begin to set but are still soft and slightly runny on top. Remove them quickly to prevent overcooking — that silky texture adds lovely creaminess to your dish.

Step 6: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

Turn the heat back up to medium and add the white parts of the green onions. Sauté briefly until they start to brown, releasing their sweetness. Then toss in the carrots, red bell pepper, fresh ginger slices, and garlic. Cook just a minute more to keep the veggies crisp and vibrant.

Step 7: Combine Everything with the Sauce

Return the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs to the pan. Use a spatula to gently break up the eggs into small, tender pieces. Pour in your prepared Pad Thai sauce and stir constantly for about 30 seconds, allowing all the ingredients to absorb those luscious flavors evenly.

Step 8: Add the Spaghetti Squash and Finish

Finally, fold in the spaghetti squash noodles carefully, so they don’t break apart. Mix gently just to warm the noodles and incorporate the sauce without losing the squash’s pleasant texture. Now your Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe is ready for the finishing touch.

How to Serve Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe

The dish is a colorful stir-fry served in a white pan, filled with several layers. The base layer is light yellow thin noodles mixed with scrambled egg pieces. On top of this are strips of light brown cooked chicken, bright orange carrot sticks, and long white bean sprouts. Scattered all over are sliced green onions adding a fresh green touch. The textures look soft and slightly wet with a bit of shine from the stir-fried sauce. The white marbled surface is visible around the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This dish truly shines with the perfect garnishes. Top your plate with fresh lime wedges to add a burst of brightness, crushed cashews for satisfying crunch, the green part of chopped green onions for a hint of sharpness, and fresh bean sprouts for crisp texture. Red pepper flakes can also add an exciting, gentle heat if you like a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

Since this dish has a wonderful balance of protein, veggies, and carbs from the squash, side dishes can be minimal. A light cucumber salad with a simple dressing or steamed Asian greens like bok choy complement it beautifully. For a heartier meal, jasmine rice or sticky rice are excellent options for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling creative? Serve the spaghetti squash noodles separately on a platter, and spoon the Chicken Pad Thai mixture on top for an elegant layered dish. Alternatively, try stuffing the Pad Thai into halved, roasted spaghetti squash shells for an eye-catching presentation that also reduces cleanup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken Pad Thai in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for delicious next-day meals. Keep garnishes separate until ready to serve to retain freshness and crunch.

Freezing

While fresh spaghetti squash noodles maintain the best texture, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture with sauce. Package in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken or making the squash mushy. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Reapply fresh garnishes and lime wedges after warming for the best flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use regular noodles instead of spaghetti squash?

Absolutely! Rice noodles or even traditional wheat noodles can be used if you prefer. Just cook them according to package instructions and add them at the end instead of spaghetti squash.

Is cashew butter the same as peanut butter?

Cashew butter is made from cashews and has a milder, creamier, and slightly sweeter flavor than peanut butter. It’s perfect for this recipe because it complements the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients.

What if I don’t eat fish sauce?

You can substitute fish sauce with extra coconut aminos or a vegan Worcestershire sauce to keep the umami taste without compromising flavor.

How do I cook spaghetti squash?

To cook spaghetti squash, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and bake face down on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes or until tender. Then use a fork to scrape out noodle-like strands.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth or soy sauce instead of fish sauce to make a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Pad Thai with Cashew Butter and Spaghetti Squash Noodles Recipe is a marvelous way to enjoy a classic dish with a fresh, wholesome spin. The balance of textures and flavors makes it irresistible, and the nourishing ingredients will leave you feeling great about what you’re eating. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and let it become a beloved staple in your kitchen as it is in mine!