Name: Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats for a Flavor Packed Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Zucchinis (Feel free to swap with yellow squash if desired.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (A light brush enhances flavors.); 1 lb Cooked Chicken (Shredded rotisserie chicken; ground turkey or tofu are excellent alternatives.); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Adds sweet and smoky flavor.); 0.5 cup Red Onion (Finely chopped; consider green onions for a milder taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Or use fresh minced garlic for more intensity.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Complements the flavor of the red onion.); Salt and Pepper (Season to taste.); 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Mozzarella or pepper jack can be used.); Sliced Jalapeños (Optional for added heat.); 0.25 cup Cilantro (Chopped; parsley can be a lovely alternative.)

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With the summer bounty of zucchini at your fingertips, I’ve found a delightful way to transform these green beauties into a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly. Enter Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats—a winning combination of tender shredded chicken slathered in savory BBQ sauce, nestled inside soft zucchini halves. Not only do these boats make for a healthy, low-carb alternative to heavy pasta dishes, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze. The best part? They’re fully customizable! Whether you prefer ground turkey or a vegetarian twist with tofu, this recipe offers something for everyone, ensuring your family relishes each delicious bite. Ready to taste the magic of this mouthwatering dish? Let’s dive into how to create these irresistible zucchini boats together!

Why Are These Zucchini Boats So Special?

Satisfying, Healthy Meal: Enjoy the joy of a tasty yet guilt-free dish that’s gluten-free and low-carb!

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with sweet and smoky BBQ flavors that are simply irresistible.

Customizable Goodness: Whether you’re a fan of shredded chicken, ground turkey, or tofu, you can easily personalize these boats to suit your taste.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love these delightful zucchini boats, making family dinners a breeze.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and speedy prep, you’ll have a scrumptious meal ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!

Looking for more healthy twists on classic meals? Check out my Garlic Chicken Zucchini or Chicken Zucchini Bake for fresh inspiration!

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Ingredients

For the Zucchini Boats
• Medium Zucchinis – The perfect vessel for holding all that tasty filling; feel free to swap with yellow squash if desired.
• Olive Oil – A light brush enhances flavors and prevents sticking when baking.

For the Filling
• Cooked Chicken (1 lb) – Shredded rotisserie chicken provides rich flavor and convenience; ground turkey or tofu are excellent alternatives.
• BBQ Sauce (1 cup) – Adds that signature sweet and smoky flavor essential for juicy BBQ chicken zucchini boats; homemade BBQ sauce can add a personal touch.
• Red Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch and sharpness to each bite; consider green onions for a milder taste instead.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Infuses the filling with savory depth; can be replaced with fresh minced garlic for more intensity.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Complements the flavor of the red onion beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all the flavors in your filling.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – The gooey topping that melds with flavors; mozzarella or pepper jack can add different taste profiles.
• Sliced Jalapeños (optional) – For those who crave an extra kick, feel free to add these spicy slices for more heat!

For Garnishing
• Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped) – Adds freshness and color to elevate the dish; parsley can be a lovely alternative if you prefer.

Each ingredient in these Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats contributes to a wholesome, gluten-free, low-carb meal that’s perfect for the whole family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is essential for achieving perfectly baked Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats. While the oven is warming up, gather all your ingredients and baking equipment to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Rinse the medium zucchinis under cold water, then slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds to create a hollow center, which will hold the delicious filling. Brush the insides lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, enhancing their flavor while ensuring they won’t stick to the baking dish.

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, finely chopped red onion, and half of the chopped cilantro. Gently mix until everything is evenly coated in the BBQ sauce, creating a scrumptious filling that will burst with flavors inside the zucchini boats.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini
Spoon the chicken mixture into each zucchini half, distributing the filling evenly without overpacking it. Ensure each boat is filled but maintains its shape for even cooking. The goal is a hearty portion of the savory filling in your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, ready to be topped with cheese.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Sauce
After filling the zucchinis, drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken filling in each boat. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños if you like some heat. This will create a beautifully melty and flavorful topping once baked.

Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake the zucchini boats for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the zucchini is tender but firm.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, take the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with the remaining chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of BBQ chicken and tender zucchini that will surely please your family!

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome dinner without the fuss! You can prepare the filling (chicken, BBQ sauce, onions, and spices) up to 3 days in advance—just combine all ingredients in an airtight container and refrigerate. The zucchini should be hollowed out and brushed with olive oil up to 24 hours before baking to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply stuff the zucchini with the prepped filling, top them with cheese, and bake as directed for a quick, restaurant-quality meal that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!

Expert Tips for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

• Avoid Overpacking: Ensure you fill the zucchini boats generously but avoid overpacking to prevent overflow during baking.

• Moisture Retention: Covering with foil while baking keeps the zucchinis tender and prevents the tops from burning.

• BBQ Sauce Balance: Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference; feel free to make it sweeter or smokier to suit your family’s palate.

• Chicken Shredding: For even heating and flavor distribution, ensure the cooked chicken is well-shredded before mixing into the filling of your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats.

• Garnish for Appeal: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro after baking! It adds a lovely color and brightens the flavors in the dish.

What to Serve with Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Enhance your dining experience by discovering delicious side dishes that perfectly complement these delightful zucchini boats.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness balances the smokiness of the BBQ chicken, providing a crunchy texture that everyone loves. Perfectly spiced, these fries are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the zucchini boats. The crisp veggies create a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks offer a comforting, indulgent side that pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. They make the meal feel cozy and complete, inviting everyone to indulge.
Quinoa Pilaf: This nutritious, nutty side dish adds fiber and is an excellent way to introduce wholesome grains into the meal. Toss in some herbs and veggies for a burst of color and flavor that beautifully complements the zucchini.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and bursting with summer flavor, grilled corn enhances the BBQ theme while adding a delightful bite. Serve with herbed butter for an extra touch of indulgence during your meal.
Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing drink complements the savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Its zesty brightness brings a refreshing contrast to the meal, making each bite of the zucchini boats even more enjoyable!

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats: Customization Ideas

Embrace your culinary creativity and make these delightful zucchini boats truly yours with fun twists and swaps!

Protein Swap: If you’re in the mood for a change, use ground turkey or tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Both options deliver a satisfying filling that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce.
Cheesy Delight: Feel free to experiment with cheese choices! Feta offers a tangy twist, while gouda can give you a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, corn, or even fresh spinach to the filling for extra texture and nutrients. These additional vegetables light up the flavor and make each bite even more delightful.
Herb Variations: Instead of cilantro, you can use parsley or even fresh basil for a completely different taste profile. Each herb brings its unique character that will change the essence of your zucchini boats.
Add Some Heat: Craving a bit more spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños or even a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling. Adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds for a tantalizing kick!
Saucy Twist: Replace store-bought BBQ sauce with homemade BBQ or a spicy mustard sauce for a unique flavor journey. Its personal touch will bring your own flair to this already scrumptious dish.
Grain-Free Delight: For a grain-free option, skip the cheese topping and sprinkle with nutritional yeast before baking instead. It provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy!

These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are so versatile, allowing everyone to find their perfect fit. Pair this dish with a refreshing salad or a fluffy quinoa side for a well-rounded meal experience. Don’t forget to check out my recipes for Bbq Chicken Thighs and White Chicken Chili for more delicious ideas on how to utilize those flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Fridge: Store leftover Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat when hunger strikes.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the zucchini boats individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy stored zucchini boats, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes until warm.
Tips for Freezing: If possible, freeze the zucchini boats without cheese and add it just before baking to maintain that gooey texture.

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe zucchinis for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing zucchinis, look for medium-sized ones that are firm to the touch, with smooth, glossy skin. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft. Ideally, aim for zucchinis that are about 6-8 inches long for perfect stuffing.

What is the best way to store leftover Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to retain the flavors and texture. I often use a splash of water in a covered dish in the microwave to help keep them moist!

Can I freeze Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?
Very! To freeze, wrap each zucchini boat individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, I recommend freezing them without the cheese and adding it just before baking, ensuring that cheesy topping stays perfectly gooey when you reheat!

What should I do if my zucchinis become watery during baking?
If you notice your zucchini boats are watery, there are a couple of steps you can take. First, ensure you scoop out enough seeds and flesh before stuffing. This extra moisture can sometimes leak out during baking. Second, if they still turn out watery, try baking them uncovered for the last few minutes to help evaporate excess moisture, making for a firmer dish!

Are Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats safe for pets or those with allergies?
When it comes to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them food seasoned with garlic, as it can be harmful. Additionally, make adjustments for any allergies by ensuring your BBQ sauce and cheese are free from allergens, such as gluten or dairy, if needed. Consider using compliant substitutes as well, like gluten-free BBQ sauce or dairy-free cheese.

Can I customize the protein in the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?
Absolutely! You can easily switch out the shredded chicken for ground turkey, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that whichever protein you choose is cooked through before mixing it with the other ingredients, allowing for a delicious and hearty filling customized to your preference. Enjoy the freedom to make this dish your own!