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BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Flavorful and Easy Recipe

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- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or a good brand) - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen) - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish You can add more flavor to your BBQ chicken zucchini boats. Try these options: - Black beans for extra protein - Jalapeños for heat - Diced bell peppers for crunch - Sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping - Other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella Each serving of BBQ chicken zucchini boats is packed with nutrition. Here’s a quick look: - Calories: Around 350 - Protein: 30 grams - Carbohydrates: 20 grams - Fat: 15 grams - Fiber: 5 grams This dish offers a great balance of protein and veggies. The zucchini adds fiber while the chicken gives you protein. This recipe makes a wholesome meal that keeps you full. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab four medium zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a melon baller or a spoon to scoop out the center. Leave about a 1/4-inch border to make them look like boats. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper inside each zucchini half. Next, in a big mixing bowl, combine two cups of shredded cooked chicken with one cup of barbecue sauce. Add one cup of corn kernels and half a cup of finely diced red onion. Mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the sauce. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil on the cut side of each zucchini half. Place them cut side up in a baking dish. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini boat. Pack them comfortably but do not overcrowd. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled boat. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with the zucchini tender. To get that perfect melty cheese, make sure not to overcook the zucchini. You want them soft but not mushy. If you like a golden top, broil the zucchini boats for one to two minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them. Cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly under the broiler. For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses or adding extra spices to the cheese before sprinkling it on. Enjoy the delicious results! To make BBQ chicken zucchini boats, you need some basic tools. Here’s what I recommend: - A sharp knife for cutting zucchinis - A melon baller or a spoon for scooping out the center - A large mixing bowl for combining the filling - A baking dish for cooking the boats - Aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking These tools help you work efficiently and safely. They also make clean-up easier! When making zucchini boats, some common mistakes can spoil your dish. Here’s what to watch out for: - Overfilling the boats: If you pack too much filling, it may spill out. - Not salting the zucchinis: Salting helps draw out moisture, keeping the boats from getting soggy. - Skipping the foil: Covering the dish with foil helps cook the zucchini evenly. Remove it later to brown the cheese. Avoiding these pitfalls makes your dish tastier and more appealing. You can boost the flavor of your BBQ chicken zucchini boats with fresh herbs and spices. Here are some ideas: - Cilantro: Adds a fresh touch, perfect for garnish. - Chili powder: For a spicy kick, mix into the chicken filling. - Garlic powder: A great addition for a savory depth. - Fresh basil: Sprinkle on top just before serving for a fragrant finish. These simple changes can elevate your dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors! Pro Tips Choose the Right Zucchini: Select firm and medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. Overripe zucchinis can be watery and mushy. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers or jalapeños, for extra flavor and texture. Make Ahead: Prepare the zucchini boats in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for a quick meal. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile. {{image_2}} You can easily make these zucchini boats vegetarian. Swap out the chicken for black beans or lentils. These options add protein and texture. You can also use cooked quinoa for a hearty base. Mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Top them with cheese or a vegan cheese substitute. While barbecue sauce is a classic, try other sauces too. A spicy buffalo sauce adds a kick. You could use a sweet teriyaki sauce for a different taste. For a tangy option, try a ranch dressing mixed with herbs. Each sauce will change the flavor profile of your zucchini boats. If you want to switch up the chicken, try shredded turkey or tofu. Both options work well with the other flavors. For cheese, consider using mozzarella or pepper jack. These toppings melt nicely and add great taste. Feel free to mix and match proteins and cheeses to find your favorite combo! To store leftover zucchini boats, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you reheat the zucchini boats, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the boats on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. This keeps the cheese nice and melty. You can freeze these zucchini boats for later. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each boat tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven as mentioned above. This method keeps the flavor fresh! Yes, you can prepare BBQ chicken zucchini boats in advance. You can stuff the zucchini and cover them with foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake them as instructed. This saves time on busy days, and they still taste great! You can use many vegetables in zucchini boats. Here are some ideas: - Bell peppers - Eggplant - Mushrooms - Tomatoes - Carrots Feel free to mix and match. Just remember to cut them small and cook until soft. Making barbecue sauce is simple and fun! Here’s a quick recipe: - 1 cup ketchup - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the taste as you like. This sauce is tasty and perfect for many dishes! BBQ chicken zucchini boats are a fun way to enjoy healthy meals. We covered the key ingredients, steps for prep, and tips for perfect cheese. Don't forget to try different flavors and sauces to make your boats unique. Remember to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasty. These boats are easy to customize and great for sharing. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious dish that's simple and fun to make!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to enjoy a tasty twist on classic BBQ? My BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are flavorful, easy to make, and packed with nutrients. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun family dinner. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step, share tips for delicious toppings, and show you how to customize them to fit your taste. Let’s dive into this fantastic dish!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Combination: The mix of BBQ sauce with tender chicken and fresh veggies creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone loves.
  2. Healthy Twist: Replacing traditional bread or tortillas with zucchini makes this recipe a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
  3. Easy to Customize: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
  4. Great for Meal Prep: These zucchini boats can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

– 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or a good brand)

– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)

– 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can add more flavor to your BBQ chicken zucchini boats. Try these options:

– Black beans for extra protein

– Jalapeños for heat

– Diced bell peppers for crunch

– Sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping

– Other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella

Nutritional Information Breakdown

Each serving of BBQ chicken zucchini boats is packed with nutrition. Here’s a quick look:

– Calories: Around 350

– Protein: 30 grams

– Carbohydrates: 20 grams

– Fat: 15 grams

– Fiber: 5 grams

This dish offers a great balance of protein and veggies. The zucchini adds fiber while the chicken gives you protein. This recipe makes a wholesome meal that keeps you full.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Zucchini and Chicken Mixing

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab four medium zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a melon baller or a spoon to scoop out the center. Leave about a 1/4-inch border to make them look like boats. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper inside each zucchini half. Next, in a big mixing bowl, combine two cups of shredded cooked chicken with one cup of barbecue sauce. Add one cup of corn kernels and half a cup of finely diced red onion. Mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the sauce.

Cooking Instructions and Baking Process

Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil on the cut side of each zucchini half. Place them cut side up in a baking dish. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini boat. Pack them comfortably but do not overcrowd. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled boat. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with the zucchini tender.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Melted Cheese

To get that perfect melty cheese, make sure not to overcook the zucchini. You want them soft but not mushy. If you like a golden top, broil the zucchini boats for one to two minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them. Cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly under the broiler. For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses or adding extra spices to the cheese before sprinkling it on. Enjoy the delicious results!

Tips & Tricks

Recommended Tools and Equipment

To make BBQ chicken zucchini boats, you need some basic tools. Here’s what I recommend:

– A sharp knife for cutting zucchinis

– A melon baller or a spoon for scooping out the center

– A large mixing bowl for combining the filling

– A baking dish for cooking the boats

– Aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking

These tools help you work efficiently and safely. They also make clean-up easier!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making zucchini boats, some common mistakes can spoil your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

– Overfilling the boats: If you pack too much filling, it may spill out.

– Not salting the zucchinis: Salting helps draw out moisture, keeping the boats from getting soggy.

– Skipping the foil: Covering the dish with foil helps cook the zucchini evenly. Remove it later to brown the cheese.

Avoiding these pitfalls makes your dish tastier and more appealing.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

You can boost the flavor of your BBQ chicken zucchini boats with fresh herbs and spices. Here are some ideas:

– Cilantro: Adds a fresh touch, perfect for garnish.

– Chili powder: For a spicy kick, mix into the chicken filling.

– Garlic powder: A great addition for a savory depth.

– Fresh basil: Sprinkle on top just before serving for a fragrant finish.

These simple changes can elevate your dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Zucchini: Select firm and medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. Overripe zucchinis can be watery and mushy.
  2. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers or jalapeños, for extra flavor and texture.
  3. Make Ahead: Prepare the zucchini boats in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for a quick meal.
  4. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Variations

Vegetarian Options for Zucchini Boats

You can easily make these zucchini boats vegetarian. Swap out the chicken for black beans or lentils. These options add protein and texture. You can also use cooked quinoa for a hearty base. Mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Top them with cheese or a vegan cheese substitute.

Different Sauces to Use

While barbecue sauce is a classic, try other sauces too. A spicy buffalo sauce adds a kick. You could use a sweet teriyaki sauce for a different taste. For a tangy option, try a ranch dressing mixed with herbs. Each sauce will change the flavor profile of your zucchini boats.

Substitutions for Chicken and Cheese

If you want to switch up the chicken, try shredded turkey or tofu. Both options work well with the other flavors. For cheese, consider using mozzarella or pepper jack. These toppings melt nicely and add great taste. Feel free to mix and match proteins and cheeses to find your favorite combo!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Zucchini Boats

To store leftover zucchini boats, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating Instructions to Maintain Flavor

When you reheat the zucchini boats, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the boats on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. This keeps the cheese nice and melty.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

You can freeze these zucchini boats for later. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each boat tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven as mentioned above. This method keeps the flavor fresh!

FAQs

Can I make BBQ chicken zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare BBQ chicken zucchini boats in advance. You can stuff the zucchini and cover them with foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake them as instructed. This saves time on busy days, and they still taste great!

What other vegetables can I use in zucchini boats?

You can use many vegetables in zucchini boats. Here are some ideas:

– Bell peppers

– Eggplant

– Mushrooms

– Tomatoes

– Carrots

Feel free to mix and match. Just remember to cut them small and cook until soft.

How do I make the barbecue sauce from scratch?

Making barbecue sauce is simple and fun! Here’s a quick recipe:

– 1 cup ketchup

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 1/4 cup brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the taste as you like. This sauce is tasty and perfect for many dishes!

BBQ chicken zucchini boats are a fun way to enjoy healthy meals. We covered the key ingredients, steps for prep, and tips for perfect cheese. Don’t forget to try different flavors and sauces to make your boats unique. Remember to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasty. These boats are easy to customize and great for sharing. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious dish that’s simple and fun to mak

- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or a good brand) - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen) - 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish You can add more flavor to your BBQ chicken zucchini boats. Try these options: - Black beans for extra protein - Jalapeños for heat - Diced bell peppers for crunch - Sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping - Other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella Each serving of BBQ chicken zucchini boats is packed with nutrition. Here’s a quick look: - Calories: Around 350 - Protein: 30 grams - Carbohydrates: 20 grams - Fat: 15 grams - Fiber: 5 grams This dish offers a great balance of protein and veggies. The zucchini adds fiber while the chicken gives you protein. This recipe makes a wholesome meal that keeps you full. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab four medium zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a melon baller or a spoon to scoop out the center. Leave about a 1/4-inch border to make them look like boats. Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper inside each zucchini half. Next, in a big mixing bowl, combine two cups of shredded cooked chicken with one cup of barbecue sauce. Add one cup of corn kernels and half a cup of finely diced red onion. Mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of salt and pepper. Ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the sauce. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil on the cut side of each zucchini half. Place them cut side up in a baking dish. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini boat. Pack them comfortably but do not overcrowd. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled boat. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with the zucchini tender. To get that perfect melty cheese, make sure not to overcook the zucchini. You want them soft but not mushy. If you like a golden top, broil the zucchini boats for one to two minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them. Cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly under the broiler. For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses or adding extra spices to the cheese before sprinkling it on. Enjoy the delicious results! To make BBQ chicken zucchini boats, you need some basic tools. Here’s what I recommend: - A sharp knife for cutting zucchinis - A melon baller or a spoon for scooping out the center - A large mixing bowl for combining the filling - A baking dish for cooking the boats - Aluminum foil to cover the dish while baking These tools help you work efficiently and safely. They also make clean-up easier! When making zucchini boats, some common mistakes can spoil your dish. Here’s what to watch out for: - Overfilling the boats: If you pack too much filling, it may spill out. - Not salting the zucchinis: Salting helps draw out moisture, keeping the boats from getting soggy. - Skipping the foil: Covering the dish with foil helps cook the zucchini evenly. Remove it later to brown the cheese. Avoiding these pitfalls makes your dish tastier and more appealing. You can boost the flavor of your BBQ chicken zucchini boats with fresh herbs and spices. Here are some ideas: - Cilantro: Adds a fresh touch, perfect for garnish. - Chili powder: For a spicy kick, mix into the chicken filling. - Garlic powder: A great addition for a savory depth. - Fresh basil: Sprinkle on top just before serving for a fragrant finish. These simple changes can elevate your dish. Enjoy experimenting with flavors! Pro Tips Choose the Right Zucchini: Select firm and medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. Overripe zucchinis can be watery and mushy. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to the chicken mixture, such as bell peppers or jalapeños, for extra flavor and texture. Make Ahead: Prepare the zucchini boats in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for a quick meal. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor profile. {{image_2}} You can easily make these zucchini boats vegetarian. Swap out the chicken for black beans or lentils. These options add protein and texture. You can also use cooked quinoa for a hearty base. Mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Top them with cheese or a vegan cheese substitute. While barbecue sauce is a classic, try other sauces too. A spicy buffalo sauce adds a kick. You could use a sweet teriyaki sauce for a different taste. For a tangy option, try a ranch dressing mixed with herbs. Each sauce will change the flavor profile of your zucchini boats. If you want to switch up the chicken, try shredded turkey or tofu. Both options work well with the other flavors. For cheese, consider using mozzarella or pepper jack. These toppings melt nicely and add great taste. Feel free to mix and match proteins and cheeses to find your favorite combo! To store leftover zucchini boats, let them cool first. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you reheat the zucchini boats, use the oven for the best taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the boats on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. This keeps the cheese nice and melty. You can freeze these zucchini boats for later. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each boat tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven as mentioned above. This method keeps the flavor fresh! Yes, you can prepare BBQ chicken zucchini boats in advance. You can stuff the zucchini and cover them with foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake them as instructed. This saves time on busy days, and they still taste great! You can use many vegetables in zucchini boats. Here are some ideas: - Bell peppers - Eggplant - Mushrooms - Tomatoes - Carrots Feel free to mix and match. Just remember to cut them small and cook until soft. Making barbecue sauce is simple and fun! Here’s a quick recipe: - 1 cup ketchup - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the taste as you like. This sauce is tasty and perfect for many dishes! BBQ chicken zucchini boats are a fun way to enjoy healthy meals. We covered the key ingredients, steps for prep, and tips for perfect cheese. Don't forget to try different flavors and sauces to make your boats unique. Remember to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasty. These boats are easy to customize and great for sharing. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious dish that's simple and fun to make!

BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Delicious zucchini boats filled with BBQ chicken, cheese, and fresh ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 0.5 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the zucchinis by scooping out the center using a melon baller or spoon, leaving about a 1/4-inch border to create boats. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, corn, diced red onion, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well-coated.
  • Drizzle olive oil on the zucchini halves and place them cut side up in a baking dish.
  • Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture generously into each zucchini boat, packing them comfortably but not overcrowding.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each filled zucchini boat.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
  • Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Scatter chopped cilantro on top for a fresh finishing touch.

Notes

Serve the zucchini boats on a large platter, garnished with additional cilantro and slices of lime on the side for a vibrant presentation.
Keyword barbecue, chicken, easy, healthy, zucchini

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