Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

If you’re looking for a delightful and healthy dinner option, you’ve come to the right place! Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on traditional comfort food. I love how this dish turns simple zucchini into delicious boats that hold savory shredded chicken coated in BBQ sauce. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also make for a great family meal or a quick weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.

This recipe is special because it’s so versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd during family gatherings or just whipping up something quick for yourself, these sticky BBQ chicken zucchini boats will surely satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, they’re nutritious and low-calorie, making them an excellent choice for meal prep too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of eating from their own little boats, and adults appreciate the delicious flavors!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble these ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients or toppings to fit everyone’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items will help you create a delicious meal everyone will enjoy.

For the Filling

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (look for a brand without added gelatin)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)

For Garnish

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro

Variations

What I love about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of shredded chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn along with the chicken for added texture and nutrition.
• Go vegan: Substitute shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for chicken and use dairy-free cheese for a plant-based option.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or buffalo sauce for a unique twist.

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing your zucchinis thoroughly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh using a spoon to create space for the filling. This step is important as it makes room for all those delicious flavors!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir until every piece is well coated. This ensures that every bite of your sticky BBQ chicken has that fantastic flavor that makes this dish so special!

Step 3: Stuff the Zucchini

Next, take each zucchini half and fill it generously with your BBQ chicken mixture. Make sure not to overfill; you want everything to stay neatly inside while cooking. This keeps it tidy and helps everything cook evenly.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle your shredded cheese over each filled zucchini boat. The cheese will melt beautifully while baking, adding that gooey goodness we all love!

Step 5: Bake

Place your stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet and pop them into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This step transforms your ingredients into a cohesive dish full of comforting flavors!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro. Serve these delightful Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats warm, and watch everyone dig in happily!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Making Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis as they provide an ideal balance between size and flavor. Larger zucchinis can be watery and may not hold the filling as well.
• Shred chicken efficiently: If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken, shredding it with two forks can save you time and make it easier to mix in the BBQ sauce.
• Season the filling: Don’t be afraid to add extra spices or herbs to the shredded chicken mixture. This step enhances flavor and allows you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
• Pre-bake the zucchini: Baking the hollowed-out zucchini for a few minutes before adding the filling helps them soften slightly and prevents them from becoming too soggy when baked with the chicken.
• Watch the cheese closely: If you love that golden, bubbly cheese topping, keep an eye on your zucchini boats during the last few minutes of baking. Broiling them for a minute can achieve that perfect finish but be careful not to burn it!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Presenting Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors of BBQ chicken.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that balances out the rich flavors of the zucchini boats.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory BBQ chicken while adding a hearty component to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only provides nutrients but also offers a nice crunch that contrasts well with the tenderness of the zucchini boats.
• Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side that adds sweetness and complements the BBQ theme wonderfully.

Enjoy your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats served alongside these delightful sides, making for a wholesome dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals throughout the week. You can easily prepare them in advance and store them for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the zucchini boats to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap each zucchini boat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped boats in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove from the refrigerator or freezer and place on a baking sheet.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes if refrigerated, or 25-30 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats that might help you as you prepare this dish!

Can I use different proteins in Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded turkey or even plant-based proteins like jackfruit or tofu for a delicious variation.

How do I make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply ensure that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free. Many brands offer great options that fit this criterion!

What other toppings can I add to my Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

Feel free to customize your boats with toppings like diced bell peppers, green onions, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs after baking for added flavor!

Are Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy healthy dinners all week long.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats as much as I do! This recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while satisfying those comfort food cravings. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and flavors—make it your own! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish!