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Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 11 reviews

Delicious and easy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a healthy and flavorful dinner option. Tender zucchinis are hollowed out and filled with a savory mix of shredded BBQ chicken, red onions, and spices, then topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, this recipe combines smoky, tangy barbecue flavors with fresh vegetables for a comforting yet light meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Protein & Dairy

  • 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Condiments & Seasonings

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure an even baking temperature for the zucchini boats.
  2. Prepare the Zucchini: Rinse the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then scoop out the seeds and some flesh carefully using a spoon or melon baller to create hollow boats. Lightly brush the inside of each zucchini half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor and help roasting.
  3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, finely chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and evenly coated in BBQ sauce.
  4. Stuff the Zucchini: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, packing the filling gently but firmly to ensure a good fill without overstuffing.
  5. Top with Cheese: Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the filled boats, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. For some added heat, place sliced jalapeños over the cheese layer if desired.
  6. Bake: Arrange the stuffed zucchini boats in a baking dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this initial baking, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with the remaining chopped cilantro before serving. Serve the zucchini boats warm as a satisfying main dish or side.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken speeds up preparation and adds great flavor.
  • Choose a BBQ sauce you love since it greatly influences the final taste.
  • You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
  • To make it spicier, add jalapeños or a pinch of red chili flakes.
  • For a gluten-free option, verify the BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
  • Leftover zucchini boats can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated well.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, BBQ chicken, baked zucchini, low carb dinner, easy chicken recipe, healthy dinner, summer recipe

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/sticky-bbq-chicken-zucchini-boats-recipe/