Description
These Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy twist on classic BBQ chicken. Hollowed zucchini halves are filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, tangy low-sugar BBQ sauce, sautéed onions, garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, then baked until golden and tender. This hearty, flavorful dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, combining the goodness of vegetables with satisfying protein and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
- Olive oil, for greasing pan
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Filling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast (about 2 1/2 cups; can also use rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup low sugar BBQ sauce (such as Stubb’s Spicy BBQ Sauce), divided, plus extra for topping if desired
- 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
For Garnish
- Cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Hollow Out Zucchini: Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the centers of the zucchini halves, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell to create the boats. Arrange the zucchini boats cut side up in the greased pan. Brush the insides lightly with olive oil for extra flavor and moisture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic and finely diced red onion in a portion of the olive oil until fragrant and softened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Mix Filling: Add the cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup of the low sugar BBQ sauce, and 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the bowl with the sautéed garlic and onions. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Fill Zucchini Boats: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each hollowed zucchini boat. Then, top each stuffed zucchini with the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese and drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top if you like it saucier.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt thoroughly and the zucchini to become tender but not mushy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the foil and garnish the zucchini boats with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve warm for a delicious and wholesome meal.
Notes
- Look for medium zucchini of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.
- Adjust BBQ sauce amount according to your preferred level of sauciness.
- Keep the zucchini thickness consistent to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with other meltable cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- This dish reheats well and is great for meal prepping.
