Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a fun, craveable way to eat your veggies, look no further than Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Picture juicy zucchini stuffed to the brim with tender BBQ chicken, red onions, and melty cheddar, all baked until bubbling and bright with flavors. This is the kind of recipe that transforms humble ingredients into pure comfort, yet remains surprisingly light and fresh. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet so vibrant and satisfying, you’ll want to show it off to friends and family again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients and let each one shine—crisp zucchini provides the base, tangy barbecue sauce infuses smoky-sweet goodness, and plenty of cheddar brings everything together for irresistible Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Each component plays a crucial part, so don’t be afraid to choose your favorites and enjoy the colors and flavors they bring to the table.
- Olive oil, for greasing pan: Keeps the zucchini from sticking and helps everything bake up golden and flavorful.
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise: Choose evenly sized zucchini so all your boats cook evenly and look beautiful lined up in the pan.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: For brushing the zucchini and sautéing the aromatics, adding richness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the filling with aromatic punch—don’t skip it!
- ½ red onion, finely diced: Brings a gentle sweetness and color to balance the smoky BBQ flavor.
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, but any cooked chicken will do.
- 1 cup low sugar BBQ sauce, divided: Use your favorite brand for the sauce—Stubb’s Spicy is a great choice if you love a kick.
- 1 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a satisfying richness.
- Fresh cilantro: A handful brightens each bite with fresh, herby flavor.
- Green onions: Scatter on top for a zesty, colorful finish.
How to Make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with olive oil, making sure to get into the corners. This not only keeps your zucchini from sticking but also adds an extra layer of flavor as the boats bake. If your zucchini are extra cuddly and don’t fit in one dish, divide them between two pans—it’s all about snuggly, even cooking.
Step 2: Hollow Out the Zucchini
Slice your zucchini in half lengthwise and grab a sturdy spoon. Carefully scoop out the soft center, leaving a quarter-inch rim all around to create perfect little boats. Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh—save it for stir-frys, omelets, or even smoothies (hello, hidden veggies!). Nestle the hollowed zucchini into your prepared pan, ready for their delicious filling.
Step 3: Brush and Season
Give each zucchini boat a gentle brush with about one tablespoon of olive oil. This helps them soften and take on a hint of golden color as they bake. You can also opt for a quick spritz of all-natural oil spray if you’re short on time. These little touches make a difference in both texture and flavor!
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat half a tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and just starting to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. This quick step enhances their natural sweetness and builds a mouthwatering base for your BBQ chicken mixture.
Step 5: Mix the Filling
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to a large bowl. Add in the shredded chicken, half a cup of barbecue sauce, and half a cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until thoroughly combined. The mixture should look hearty, saucy, and positively irresistible—you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste (or two) at this point.
Step 6: Fill and Top the Boats
Spoon generous helpings of the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini boat, packing it in so every bite is filled with goodness. Drizzle a tablespoon (or more, if you prefer extra saucy!) of the remaining barbecue sauce over the top of each boat. Sprinkle each with about one and a half tablespoons of your reserved cheddar, making sure the tops are cozily blanketed in cheese.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the pan with foil to keep everything moist, and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be gorgeously melted and bubbly, and for the zucchini to become deliciously tender while still holding its shape. The aroma will have everyone in the kitchen, eagerly waiting for dinner.
Step 8: Finish and Garnish
Once the cheesy BBQ chicken stuffed zucchini boats are perfectly cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Shower the tops with a flurry of fresh cilantro and crisp green onions—this final accent is the secret to incredible, restaurant-worthy flavor and presentation. Serve up two boats per person for a satisfying, balanced meal!
How to Serve Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and green onions takes these Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats to the next level, adding a punch of color and brightness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a quick hit of finely chopped jalapeño or a swirl of extra BBQ sauce also makes each boat feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair your zucchini boats with something simple and cooling, like a crunchy coleslaw or a bright corn salad. Garlic bread or roasted potatoes also work beautifully if you’re craving a heartier plate. The tang and zip of BBQ means this dish thrives alongside both light and indulgent sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the zucchini boats on a big platter, family-style, garnished with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or even a little sour cream or avocado. For parties, slice the boats into bite-sized portions for easy snacking—the BBQ flavor makes them an instant hit on any appetizer spread!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats, let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them perfect for meal prep or an even tastier lunch the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the zucchini boats completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as below for best results.
Reheating
For the freshest flavor and texture, reheat leftover boats in a 350-degree oven, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual boats for 1 to 2 minutes, but the oven helps keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar brings plenty of bold flavor, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack would be just as delicious in these Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Feel free to mix and match based on your tastes or what you have in the fridge.
Do I need to cook the zucchini before stuffing?
No pre-cooking required—the boats bake up perfectly tender in the oven once stuffed. Just be sure not to scoop too much of the center out, or they may become fragile as they bake.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap out the chicken for cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based chicken shred! The BBQ sauce and cheese will do most of the flavor-lifting and keep the spirit of Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats alive and well.
What can I do with the leftover zucchini pulp?
Don’t toss those zucchini centers! Chop them up and add to a morning omelet, toss into soups or stir-fries, or blend into smoothies for a veggie boost. Waste not, want not!
Can I make Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats in advance?
Yes—assemble the stuffed zucchini up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistibly joyful about pulling a bubbling tray of Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats from the oven. This recipe is bursting with flavor, easy to personalize, and guaranteed to impress. Give it a try the next time you’re craving a meal that’s as fun as it is satisfying—you might just find a new favorite for your dinner table!
Print
Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cheesy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender zucchini filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, onions, garlic, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection and topped with a zesty BBQ sauce.
Ingredients
Zucchini Boats:
- Olive oil, for greasing pan
- 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Filling:
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 pound cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup low sugar bbq sauce, divided (Stubb’s Spicy BBQ Sauce recommended)
- 1 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare zucchini: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease a 9×13 inch pan with olive oil. Scoop centers from zucchini to create boats.
- Prepare filling: Saute garlic and onion, then combine with chicken, 1/2 cup bbq sauce, and 1/2 cup cheese.
- Fill zucchini boats: Spoon chicken mixture into zucchini boats, top with bbq sauce and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35-45 minutes until cheese is melted and zucchini is tender.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and green onion before serving.
Notes
- You can use the leftover zucchini pulp in soups, stir-fries, or sauces.
- Feel free to customize the filling with additional veggies or spices to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Cheesy BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, Stuffed Zucchini, BBQ Chicken Recipe
