If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner idea, let me introduce you to my favorite: Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats! These little guys are not just a feast for the eyes, but they also combine savory chicken with tender zucchini for a meal that’s as tasty as it is nutritious. I love how easy they are to whip up; you can have dinner on the table in under an hour! Plus, they’re packed with protein and veggies, making them a fantastic choice for anyone trying to eat a bit healthier. Trust me, once you try these stuffed zucchini boats, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients List
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make these scrumptious Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Trust me, having everything prepped and ready makes the process so much smoother!
- 4 medium zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchini. They should be slightly glossy and free from soft spots.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or boil and shred your own. It adds so much flavor!
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Go for your favorite brand or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. It adds the perfect touch of Italian goodness.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: I love using fresh mozzarella for that melty stretch, but pre-shredded works just fine too.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This gives a nice flavor boost without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A little hint of sweetness and depth in flavor—don’t skip it!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Adjust based on your preference for a well-balanced dish.
Now that we have our ingredients lined up, we’re ready to get cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats! Follow along with these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a meal that’s not only delicious but also impressive!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your zucchini cooks evenly and the cheese gets all bubbly and delicious. So, go ahead and set that oven while we prep the rest!
Prepare the Zucchini
Next, grab your zucchini and slice them in half lengthwise. This is where the magic happens! Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating little boats ready to be filled. Don’t worry if you make a little mess; just be careful with that spoon and take your time. You want enough flesh scooped out to make room for the filling but not so much that the zucchini falls apart!
Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together until all the chicken is coated in that tasty sauce. I love to taste a little bit of the filling at this stage—feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking! You want it to be packed with flavor.
Assemble the Boats
Now it’s time to fill those zucchini boats! Spoon the chicken mixture into each hollowed-out zucchini half, making sure they’re generously filled. Top each one with a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, covering the filling nicely. This is the best part—watching those boats come to life!
Bake to Perfection
Place your filled zucchini boats in a baking dish, and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is fork-tender, but still slightly firm. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to create your Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats, here are some pro tips to take them to the next level!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, quality marinara, and good cheese make a world of difference. The flavors really pop!
- Adjust the Spice: If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes to the filling. It gives a nice heat that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to throw in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Get creative!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on those zucchini boats! Overbaking can make them mushy. You want them tender but still holding their shape.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats ever!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body, right? However, keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can share some typical values, they’re not set in stone!
Here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 zucchini boat):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
These boats are not just delicious; they pack a protein punch and are low in carbs, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy dinner. Enjoy every bite without any guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re still on the fence about trying my Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats, let me share a few reasons why they’re a must-make in your kitchen!
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory chicken, zesty marinara, and gooey mozzarella creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Healthy and Satisfying: These boats are loaded with protein and veggies, making them a nutritious choice that’ll leave you feeling great.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add different spices or veggies for a unique twist!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These zucchini boats store well, making them a fantastic option for meal prepping your lunches or dinners for the week.
- Impressive Presentation: They look so beautiful on the plate, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef serving them up to your family and friends!
Give these Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats a try, and I promise they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation!
FAQs About Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Got questions about these Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I encounter:
Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! While I love chicken, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season it well!
What if I don’t have marinara sauce? No problem! You can use salsa, Alfredo sauce, or even a simple mix of olive oil, herbs, and diced tomatoes. Get creative—it’s all about what flavors you enjoy!
Can I prep these in advance? Yes! You can assemble the zucchini boats a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
How do I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), just place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days, and you can reheat them in the oven or microwave!
Are these zucchini boats gluten-free? You bet! As long as you use gluten-free marinara or any other sauces, these stuffed zucchini boats are naturally gluten-free and a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you happen to have any leftover Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats (which is a rare occurrence in my house!), storing them is super easy. Just let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Trust me, they make for a fantastic quick lunch or dinner!
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them either in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that the texture might not be quite as perfect as when they first came out of the oven. Either way, they’ll still be delicious! Enjoy every last bite!
Print
Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats: 7 Flavorful Ways to Savor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Delicious zucchini boats filled with savory chicken and spices.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each zucchini half with the chicken mixture.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Place the zucchini boats in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quick meal.
- Top with fresh basil for added flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats, Zucchini Recipes, Healthy Dinner