Coconut Lime Chicken Over Spaghetti Squash: A Wholesome Recipe for Bariatric Success

Maintaining a nutritious diet is crucial for those on a weight loss journey, especially after bariatric surgery. Whole foods play a significant role in providing essential nutrients while supporting weight management goals. One delightful dish that aligns with these principles is Coconut Lime Chicken over Spaghetti Squash—a flavorful, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup coconut cream
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
   • For quicker cooking and easier portioning, cut each half into quarters.
   • Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet, drizzle with avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper.
   • Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until tender.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • While the squash is baking, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic.
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked at this stage.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add chopped onion and the remaining garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
   • Stir in dried basil and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
   • Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
   • Reduce the heat to low, add coconut cream, lime juice, and zest. Stir well to combine.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   • Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is submerged in the sauce.
   • Cover and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.

5. Assemble the Dish:

   • Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape out the strands into a serving bowl.
   • Place the cooked chicken over the spaghetti squash and generously spoon the coconut lime sauce on top.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, if desired.

This Coconut Lime Chicken over Spaghetti Squash is not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with post-bariatric surgery dietary guidelines. It's a wholesome meal that supports your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Understanding Food Addiction After Bariatric Surgery

While bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss, it's essential to address underlying behaviors such as food addiction that can impact long-term success. Studies indicate that up to 30% of bariatric patients may experience transfer addictions, substituting compulsive eating with other behaviors. (bcofa.com)

Recognizing and managing these tendencies is crucial. Engaging in regular follow-ups with healthcare providers and seeking support from specialized programs can aid in developing a healthy relationship with food and preventing the onset of new addictive behaviors.

Join Our Supportive Community

At The Rewrite Lifestyle Center, we understand the complexities of food addiction and its impact on weight loss journeys. Our dedicated team offers personalized coaching programs designed to help you navigate post-operative challenges, establish sustainable eating habits, and maintain long-term success.

Explore our coaching programs and become part of a community committed to rewriting their relationship with food. Together, we can achieve lasting transformation.

External Resources:

• Learn more about transfer addiction after bariatric surgery from the Obesity Action Coalition. (obesityaction.org)
• Discover additional healthy recipes and lifestyle tips at The Paleo Diet. (thepaleodiet.com)

Are You Struggling with Food Addiction? Take the First Step Today!

If cravings, binge eating, or emotional eating are holding you back, you’re not alone. Food addiction can impact long-term weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery and bypass surgery. At The Rewrite Lifestyle Center, we help you break free from stress eating and build a sustainable, healthy relationship with food.

Discover if you're facing food addiction and get expert guidance on bariatric nutrition, meal plans, and support from Shenelle Coplien and the Bariatric Rewrite team. Your journey to lasting weight loss starts here!

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