Description
Delicious and hearty Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats that combine tender zucchini with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, sautéed onions and garlic, topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect as a low-carb, satisfying main dish or party appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
- Olive oil, for greasing pan
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Chicken Filling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 1 cup low sugar BBQ sauce, divided (e.g., Stubb’s Spicy BBQ Sauce)
- 1 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Zucchini Boats: Scoop out the center flesh from each zucchini half using a spoon, leaving a 1/4-inch thick rim to create a boat shape. Place the zucchini halves in the greased pan and brush them with olive oil to enhance roasting.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely diced red onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Mix Filling: Add the cooked shredded chicken, half of the BBQ sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Fill Zucchini Boats: Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, filling them generously.
- Top and Bake: Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over each stuffed zucchini boat and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. Cover the pan with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the zucchini is tender.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from the oven, uncover, and garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy BBQ chicken zucchini boats!
Notes
- Use zucchini of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Adjust BBQ sauce quantity to your preferred flavor intensity.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
