Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings together the best of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors all tucked into a healthy veggie boat, then you have to try this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe. It’s a mouthwatering combination of tender zucchini, savory shredded chicken coated in luscious BBQ sauce, and melty sharp cheddar cheese that creates a comforting yet fresh meal perfect for any night of the week. The colorful presentation alone makes it a dinner guest favorite, and once you taste that delicious filling, you’ll be hooked for good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is delightful because it uses simple, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture and taste. From the fresh zucchini that serves as the healthy vessel to the rich BBQ sauce and sharp cheddar cheese that bring bold flavors, every item matters.

• Olive oil, for greasing pan: Helps prevent sticking and lightly crisps the zucchini edges while baking.
• 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise: Choose zucchini similar in size to ensure even baking and consistent portion sizes.
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Used both for sautéing and brushing the zucchini boats for extra moisture and flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant aroma and deepens the savory profile of the filling.
• ½ red onion, finely diced: Offers a mild sweetness and crunch that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
• 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast: Provides lean protein and acts as the hearty base of the filling; rotisserie chicken works great for a shortcut.
• 1 cup low sugar BBQ sauce, divided: The tangy, smoky sauce ties everything together without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Brings gooey richness and a sharp contrast to the sweet BBQ sauce.

How to Make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil to make sure the zucchini boats don’t stick and bake evenly with a nice crisp on the edges.

Step 2: Create Zucchini Boats

Take your zucchinis and slice each in half lengthwise so you have perfect “boats” for stuffing. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the centers, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick rim. This keeps the boats sturdy enough to hold the filling without leaking juices.

Step 3: Brush Zucchini with Olive Oil

Place all the zucchini halves in the greased pan and brush the insides with olive oil. This little step helps prevent them from drying out and gives a subtle roasted flavor to the vegetable.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the finely diced red onion with the minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This adds a sweet and savory base that will lift the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Mix Filling Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a large bowl, then add the shredded chicken, half of the BBQ sauce, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together gently so all the ingredients are nicely coated and melded.

Step 6: Stuff the Zucchini Boats

Spoon this delicious chicken mixture evenly into the hollowed-out zucchini boats. Be generous but careful not to overfill, as the baking process will make everything settle.

Step 7: Top with BBQ Sauce and Cheese

Drizzle or brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the stuffed zucchini boats, then sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. This final cheesy layer will melt beautifully and add that irresistible gooey finish.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Cover the pan with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, give your zucchini boats a fresh pop of color by garnishing with chopped cilantro and green onions. This not only enhances presentation but also adds fresh earthy notes that balance the rich flavors.

How to Serve Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

Garnishes

To take this Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe to the next level, fresh cilantro and sliced green onions work wonders for a bright, herbal finish. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you love a little heat.

Side Dishes

This meal shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted corn on the cob, or even a light quinoa salad for a complete, satisfying dinner. For extra comfort, baked sweet potato fries also make a tasty sidekick.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these boats on a big rustic platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves to make the colors pop. Alternatively, plate them individually for a dinner party and offer extra BBQ sauce on the side, inviting everyone to customize their servings just how they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container and refrigerate. They are best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor intensity.

Freezing

If you want to freeze them, bake the zucchini boats without cheese topping, cool completely, then wrap each boat tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add cheese before baking to reheat.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the cheese is once again melted. Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy and rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken other than breast meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is lean and easy to shred, you can use rotisserie chicken or even thigh meat if you prefer a juicier texture and richer flavor.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Low sugar BBQ sauces like Stubb’s Spicy BBQ Sauce are excellent because they add flavor without overwhelming sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for your preferred taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or a mix of colorful bell peppers to keep the filling hearty and flavorful while keeping the cheesy BBQ goodness.

How do I know when the zucchini boats are done?

They’re ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini flesh is tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but still holds its shape without being mushy.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and scoop the zucchini boats in advance, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Just add the cheese topping before popping them into the oven for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe is a total game changer when you want a meal that feels indulgent but still shows up with great nutrition and fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for impressing family or friends, or just treating yourself to a flavor-packed dinner that warms your soul. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easy it is to make zucchini the star of your table!

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