These delicious Chicken Zucchini Boats are a perfect low-carb, quick, and easy weeknight dinner.
Table of Contents
My favorite recipes are the kind that have the flavor of a traditional dish, but deliciously add something more nutritious. These chicken zucchini boats are just that!
I first discovered (and fell in love with) chicken zucchini boats as I transitioned off a strict Whole30 diet. There was a noticeable difference in my energy, I had less carb and sugar cravings and felt better overall. However, I’m a foodie and was over living with, and cooking with, so many restrictions. Mostly, I was missing enjoying cheese, especially soft, salty mozzarella. I would always enjoy cold bites of it as I prepared Chicken Parmesan or Perfect Baked Eggplant Parmesan, then again as it was melted all over.
Chicken zucchini boats are the perfect combination of healthy and crave-worthy. You have a hearty dose of veggies, and delicious saucy chicken, which is shredded, not fried. Finally, you top it with mozzarella and fresh basil to make a complete meal. The best part? This dish comes together so easily and reheats well to enjoy the next day, too.
Are Chicken Zucchini Boats Healthy?
Chicken zucchini boats are a healthy, low-carb, high-protein meal, making them a keto favorite. Even if you are not keto, these boats are filled with healthy ingredients. Zucchini is packed with antioxidants, and fiber, and is good for digestion. Onions and garlic are also in these zucchini boats adding more than just flavor. They are both superfoods containing antioxidants, like vitamin C, and may benefit heart health. Chicken is a high-quality protein and is great post-workout since it has beneficial properties for muscle growth and repair.
How To Perfectly Shred Chicken…
The shredded chicken in this dish is key to the flavor. When prepared this way the chicken absorbs all the flavors that go into this meal and it’s always moist.
Start with Juicy Poached Chicken. It is usually done after about 15 – 20 minutes, but it depends on the thickness and size of your chicken breasts. Once it has reached 165 degrees it is done. Then, allow the chicken to cool and shred it using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a pastry or flat beater, on low. You’ll be shocked at how ridiculously quick and easy this is.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
Prep
Scoop zucchini, sauté onions, and garlic, and mix with chicken.
Fill
Stuff zucchini boats with chicken mixture, top with cheese.
Bake
Bake until tender, garnish with basil.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
Chicken zucchini boats can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To make ahead, prepare the filling a day before, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
You can definitely use ground chicken, turkey, or beef. This recipe is so versatile, fill it with whatever protein you have.
To make this vegetarian-friendly you can make it more like an eggplant parm, use tofu, or any other veggies you like.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken zucchini boats are a whole meal on their own. So instead of the usual ideas of what you can serve this recipe with, here are some cool variations you can try to fill your boats. For some meat-free options try these Easy Tofu Tacos or try it with seafood and use Easy Sautéed Shrimp.
For other options with shredded protein, try Shredded Chicken Tacos or this savory Shredded Slow Cooker Roast Beef.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare the zucchini by scooping out the seeds to create boats. Set aside the scooped flesh for another use.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent. Add the shredded chicken and marinara sauce, cooking until the mixture is heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish.
- Top each zucchini boat with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment