Save Skinny BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a light, satisfying meal packed with protein and veggie goodness. Tender zucchini halves are filled with flavorful BBQ chicken and topped with melted cheese for a meal that is both nutritious and delicious, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Save This recipe is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy classic BBQ flavors in a lighter format. By substituting traditional buns or pasta with nutrient-dense zucchini, you create a meal that feels satisfying without being heavy.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 medium zucchini, 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- Protein: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- Sauces: ½ cup BBQ sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- Dairy: ½ cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 teaspoon olive oil, Salt and pepper, to taste, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2
- Wash the zucchini and slice each one in half lengthwise. Scoop out the center with a spoon, leaving about ¼ inch shell to form a boat. Reserve ½ cup of the scooped flesh, chop it, and set aside.
- Step 3
- Place the zucchini boats cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a teaspoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the reserved chopped zucchini flesh and cook for 1-2 minutes more.
- Step 5
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed onion and zucchini, and BBQ sauce. Mix well.
- Step 6
- Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the zucchini boats. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 7
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience to cut down on prep time. When scooping the zucchini, be careful not to pierce through the skin to ensure the boats hold the filling effectively during the baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the chicken mixture before stuffing the boats. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these boats with a light green salad or a side of cauliflower rice for a complete and balanced meal. For a strictly gluten-free option, always ensure that your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free.
Save Skinny BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and guilt-free way to enjoy a barbecue-inspired dinner. With their high protein content and fresh vegetable base, they are sure to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack or mozzarella are great alternatives that melt well and complement the BBQ flavors.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Ensure the BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free to maintain a gluten-free dish.
- → How do I prepare the zucchini boats?
Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, scoop out most of the center to form a shell about ¼ inch thick, reserving some flesh for the filling.
- → Can leftover chicken be used?
Yes, cooked or rotisserie chicken breast shredded finely works perfectly in the filling.
- → What herbs enhance flavor best?
Fresh cilantro garnish adds a bright touch, and smoked paprika can be mixed into the filling for added smokiness.
- → What is the best cooking temperature and time?
Bake covered at 400°F for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 5 extra minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.