Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic buffalo chicken. These zucchini halves are filled with spicy chicken and cheese, then baked until bubbly and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game day snack.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers to create boats, leaving about 1/4-inch thick walls.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce until well coated. Fill each zucchini boat with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the stuffed zucchinis.
- Step 4: Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or celery for extra crunch.
Tips & Variations
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the buffalo chicken before stuffing.
- Swap the buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor variation.
- Add chopped celery or carrots to the filling for added crunch and nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the zucchini from becoming soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure the filling is fully cooked and safe. Using fresh chicken requires adjusting cooking time and might result in undercooked filling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini boats and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from chilled.
PrintBuffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic buffalo chicken dip. Hollowed zucchini halves are filled with a spicy buffalo chicken mixture, topped with melted cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect as a low-carb appetizer or a satisfying main dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved and seeded
Buffalo Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create boats, leaving a sturdy shell for filling.
- Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Fill the Zucchini Boats: Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, distributing the filling well.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle a mixture of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously over the filled zucchini boats.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the zucchini is tender but not mushy.
- Serve Warm: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. These zucchini boats are delicious on their own or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken filling.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite melting cheeses.
- To make it milder, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce.
Keywords: Buffalo chicken, stuffed zucchini, low carb recipe, baked zucchini boats, healthy appetizer
