Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Nothing beats the delightful combination of tender chicken and vibrant zucchini, all smothered in a rich, tangy glaze. These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are an absolute game-changer when it comes to quick weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Each bite bursts with smoky BBQ flavor, balanced perfectly by the freshness of zucchini and a melty cheddar cheese topping that’s just irresistible. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and fresh, Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together simply but beautifully, each playing a crucial role in making your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats shine. From the juicy zucchini acting as your edible vessel to the shredded chicken packed with flavor, and the cheddar cheese that melts into gooey perfection—every component is essential.

• 4 medium zucchinis: Fresh and firm for sturdy boats that hold all the delicious filling.
• 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is perfect here for juicy, flavorful meat without extra fuss.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade for that signature sticky, tangy kick.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, melty topping that brings everything together beautifully.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion: Gives a sharp, sweet contrast to the smoky flavors.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For brushing the zucchini and helping them roast to tender perfection.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory layers in the filling.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to balance all flavors.
• Optional: sliced jalapeños: For those who love a spicy kick to elevate the flavor profile.

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking the stuffed zucchini boats to tender, cheesy perfection. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Give your zucchinis a good rinse under cold water and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out the soft seeds to create the perfect hollow “boats” for stuffing. Lightly brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This step softens the zucchini and adds flavor, creating a delicious base for the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken with 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, finely chopped red onion, and half of the fresh cilantro. Mix everything thoroughly so every bite is bursting with sticky, smoky, savory goodness. This blend is the heart of the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini half. Pack the filling lightly but generously—no space left behind! This step ensures every boat is loaded with flavor and texture that complements the tender zucchini shell.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake

Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the stuffed zucchinis, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Add sliced jalapeños if you love some extra heat. Place the boats in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final bake seals in the sticky sauce and melts the cheese to gooey delight.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the remaining chopped cilantro on top for a fresh pop of flavor and vibrant color. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey, sticky bite!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions adds brightness and an herbaceous lift to the rich BBQ chicken filling. For an added zing, a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce works wonders to balance the sweet and smoky flavors.

Side Dishes

These zucchini boats pair beautifully with light and refreshing sides like a crisp mixed green salad or cilantro-lime rice. For more indulgence, creamy coleslaw or roasted corn on the cob complements the BBQ vibe perfectly and rounds out the meal deliciously.

Creative Ways to Present Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Serve them on a rustic wooden board for that cozy, homemade feel or line them up on a bright platter garnished with extra cilantro and jalapeño slices for a festive touch. You can even turn this into a fun family-style meal by letting everyone customize their toppings right at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for a convenient, flavorful meal the next day or two.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked stuffed zucchinis by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, place the zucchini boats in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Microwaving works too, though the oven preserves the texture best.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe, as it helps keep preparation quick and ensures the chicken is properly seasoned. Raw chicken would need longer baking and might dry out the zucchini.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the jalapeños?

Absolutely! The jalapeños are optional, and the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are delicious with just the smoky BBQ flavors and cheese. Omit or reduce them to suit your taste.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Cheddar cheese gives a wonderful rich and melty top, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick.

Are these boats gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free BBQ sauce. Always double-check your BBQ sauce label to be sure.

How do I make the BBQ sauce homemade?

To make a simple homemade BBQ sauce, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a dash of hot sauce. Simmer until thickened to get that classic sticky BBQ flavor.

Final Thoughts

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are the kind of dish that makes you want to gather everyone around the table for seconds—and maybe thirds! They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and bring a fresh twist to traditional BBQ dishes. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making these at home and watch how quickly they become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.

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