Description
These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats combine tender roasted zucchini with saucy BBQ shredded chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. Perfect for low-calorie dinner ideas, summer cookouts, or simple weeknight meals, this recipe delivers big comfort flavors in a lighter, wholesome package.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works well)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (sticky blend preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream or Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips, avocado
Instructions
- Prep zucchini: Wash and slice zucchinis lengthwise. Scoop out seeds to form “boats.” Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Make filling: Heat shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a skillet until sticky and warmed through.
- Stuff boats: Fill zucchini halves with BBQ chicken mixture, pressing gently.
- Cook: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until tender, or grill for 15 minutes for smoky flavor.
- Finish: Sprinkle with cheese while hot, then top with onions, parsley or cilantro, and optional toppings.
- Serve: Enjoy warm as a healthy dinner or cookout dish.
Notes
- Don’t over-scoop—leave enough zucchini flesh for structure.
- For dairy-free, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Air fryer option: cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Prep ahead: Stuff boats and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Customize with shrimp, ground chicken, or vegetarian fillings like beans or jackfruit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked or Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
Keywords: BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, Sticky BBQ Chicken, Low Cal Dinner Ideas, Zucchini Boats Low Calorie, BBQ Shredded Chicken Recipes