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Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

4.9 from 27 reviews

These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a delicious and low-carb twist on a classic comfort food. Hollowed zucchinis are filled with a savory mix of shredded BBQ chicken, red onion, and spices, then topped with gooey cheddar cheese and baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, they offer a flavorful, healthy option that’s both easy and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini boats evenly and to melt the cheese nicely.
  2. Prepare the Zucchini: Rinse the zucchinis under cold water to clean them. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh in the center using a spoon or melon baller to create hollow boats. Brush the inside surfaces lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, finely chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended for a flavorful filling.
  4. Stuff the Zucchini: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, pressing gently to fill the cavity completely without overfilling.
  5. Top with Cheese: Drizzle or spoon the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the stuffed zucchinis, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Add sliced jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick.
  6. Bake: Arrange the stuffed zucchini boats in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the remaining chopped cilantro for freshness, then serve warm and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut in this recipe.
  • For a spicier dish, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
  • You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
  • To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • These zucchini boats are perfect for meal prepping and store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, healthy dinner, low carb chicken recipe, cheesy zucchini boats