Irresistible Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats You’ll Love for Dinner

If you’re craving a dish that’s big on flavor but light on calories, these Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are the answer. Packed with juicy shredded chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and nestled inside tender roasted zucchini, this recipe is the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy eating.

Whether you’re looking for low cal dinner ideas, fun food for the lake, or just a creative way to use garden zucchini, this dish delivers every time. Best of all, it’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining.

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Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats aren’t just delicious—they check all the boxes for easy, family-friendly meals:

• Low calorie, big flavor – Perfect for those watching calories but still wanting something satisfying.
• Protein-packed – Shredded chicken adds a lean protein boost.
• Kid-approved – The sticky BBQ sauce makes it familiar and fun for picky eaters.
• Great for gatherings – Works beautifully as food for the lake, potlucks, or casual backyard dinners.
• Flexible – Swap the fillings for shrimp, veggies, or even plant-based protein for variety.

If you’re looking for a lighter twist on bbq shredded chicken recipes, this one is a game changer.

What Are Zucchini Boats?

Zucchini boats are simply zucchinis that have been halved, hollowed out, and filled with savory toppings. They act as edible “boats” that hold meats, cheeses, sauces, or grains.

This technique transforms humble zucchini into a versatile base for everything from zucchini shrimp boats to taco-inspired fillings. They can be baked, roasted, or even turned into grilled zucchini boats when you want a smoky, summertime flavor.

Think of zucchini boats as a healthier, low-carb alternative to bread or pasta-based dishes. For another veggie-forward idea, try these comforting Vegetable Casserole.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

This recipe serves 4 (2 zucchini halves per person):

• 4 medium zucchinis (firm, fresh, and similar size)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite sticky BBQ sauce)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional:

• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Love bold flavors? Try using smoky barbecue sauce or a spicy chipotle version for extra kick.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make these BBQ zucchini boats, you’ll need:

• Sharp knife and spoon (for scooping out zucchini)
• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush (for BBQ sauce)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

Want to take it outdoors? Swap the oven for a grill pan to turn these into flavorful grilled zucchini boats. For a fun appetizer pairing, you might also enjoy Snake Charmers Pretzels.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

1. Prep the Zucchini – Wash and slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some flesh to make space for the filling, leaving a thin layer on the bottom for structure.
2. Roast the Zucchini Shells – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 12–15 minutes until slightly tender but not mushy.
3. Mix the Chicken Filling – In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with ¾ cup of barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
4. Fill the Zucchini Boats – Spoon the sticky BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini half, pressing down gently to pack the filling. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake Again – Return the filled boats to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve – Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra BBQ sauce, and sprinkle with green onions or cilantro. Serve warm.

These taste amazing alongside crispy sides like Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs.

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Tips for Perfect Zucchini Boats Every Time

• Choose medium zucchinis – Large ones can get watery and lose shape.
• Don’t overbake – Roast just until tender to avoid soggy boats.
• Dry the insides – Pat the scooped-out zucchini with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
• Add cheese last – For gooey perfection, add cheese during the final bake.
• Experiment with sauces – Try honey BBQ for sweetness or spicy barbecue for extra heat.

These tricks will make your zucchini boats low calorie yet packed with texture and flavor.

Flavor Variations You Can Try

• Zucchini Shrimp Boats – Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp tossed in garlic butter or Cajun seasoning.
• Grilled Zucchini Boats – Skip the oven and grill them for smoky summer flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Boats – Replace BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce and drizzle with ranch.
• Vegetarian Option – Fill with black beans, corn, and quinoa.
• Tex-Mex Style – Top with salsa, jalapeños, and avocado slices.

If you love Tex-Mex flavors, pair these with 20-Minute Chorizo Tacos for a fun themed dinner.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats make a fantastic main dish, but you can dress them up for any occasion.

• Casual weeknight dinner – Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies.
• Food for the lake – Wrap baked boats in foil and reheat on the grill for an outdoor meal.
• Game day snack – Slice into halves or thirds for shareable appetizer-style bites.
• Meal prep lunch – Store in containers for a low-calorie, high-protein workday lunch.

For gatherings, serve them alongside Monster Eyeball Pizza for a fun, themed spread.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each boat tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 375°F until hot.
• Make Ahead: Prep the zucchini and filling separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

They’re perfect when you need low cal dinner ideas ready to go.

Healthy Benefits of Choosing Zucchini Boats

Zucchini is naturally low in calories and carbs while being rich in vitamins A and C. By swapping bread or pasta for zucchini, you lower the calorie load while still enjoying a filling, flavorful dish.

Combined with lean shredded chicken, these boats offer a balanced, protein-rich meal that’s satisfying without weighing you down. That’s why zucchini boats low calorie meals like this one are so popular with health-conscious eaters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Zucchini Boats

• Scooping too much – Leaving the shells too thin makes them collapse.
• Overloading with sauce – Too much BBQ sauce can make the filling watery.
• Using old zucchini – Fresh, firm zucchinis hold their shape best.
• Skipping pre-bake – Roasting the shells first ensures even cooking.

If you enjoy casseroles with veggies, you may also love Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin.

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FAQs About BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Can I grill instead of bake? Yes! Just brush the zucchini halves with oil, grill for 3–4 minutes per side, then fill and warm until cheese melts.

Can I make this dairy-free? Absolutely. Just skip the cheese or use dairy-free shredded cheese.

Do I need to peel the zucchini? No, leave the peel on—it helps the boats hold their shape.

What other proteins work in this recipe? Turkey, ground beef, or pulled pork are all delicious alternatives.

Can I make them vegetarian? Yes. Try filling with beans, quinoa, or lentils for a hearty plant-based option.

Final Thoughts

These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re saucy, cheesy, and full of flavor while staying low in calories. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, packing them for lunch, or making them for a lakeside cookout, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to meals.

For more creative zucchini ideas, try turning them into zucchini shrimp boats or experiment with summer-ready grilled zucchini boats.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family—and make sure to subscribe to the blog for more fresh, healthy, and delicious recipes!

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