If you are craving a dish that is bursting with flavor, delightfully satisfying, and just a little bit fun to eat, the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe is ready to become your new go-to. This recipe combines tender zucchini loaded with juicy shredded chicken smothered in tangy, sticky BBQ sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner to enjoy something comforting but still fresh and vibrant. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a crowd-pleaser, these zucchini boats offer a beautiful harmony of texture and taste that you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with a handful of ingredients that pack a powerful punch together. Each element plays an important role: zucchini brings a tender, fresh base; chicken adds protein and heartiness; BBQ sauce delivers the sticky, tangy kick; cheese gives a rich, melty finish, and the seasoning ties everything perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium zucchini: Choose firm zucchini around the same size for even cooking and perfect “boats.”
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time while staying flavorful.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite type—smoky, sweet, or spicy—to personalize the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or mozzarella): Use whatever melts well and you love—Cheddar adds tang, mozzarella offers creamy pull.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the zucchini and balancing flavors.
- Olive oil: For drizzling and roasting the zucchini to tender perfection.
- Optional toppings (green onions, cilantro): Fresh herbs add a burst of color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Zucchini
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s perfectly hot and ready to work its magic. While it heats up, slice each zucchini lengthwise to create two long halves, then carefully scoop out the seeds with a spoon to form classic “boats.” This step ensures your zucchini won’t be watery and instead hold the delicious filling beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Zucchini Boats
Drizzle each zucchini half with a bit of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. The olive oil helps the zucchini roast evenly and develop a slight caramelized edge, adding lovely texture.
Step 3: Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce, stirring well so every bite will be sticky, saucy, and packed with flavor. This mix is the heart of the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe, bringing savory and sweet together in the best way.
Step 4: Fill and Top the Boats
Generously spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini half, filling them up so no boat is left behind. Then sprinkle shredded cheese over each filled zucchini boat—this layer adds a molten, irresistible topping that melts and bubbles in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender but still holding its shape, and the cheese is melted and golden. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is bound to make you impatient for the first bite!
Step 6: Add Final Touches and Serve
Once out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle on some fresh green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. These toppings are optional but highly recommended to brighten up the sticky richness of the dish.
How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe is a chance to add a burst of freshness and visual appeal. Sliced green onions lend a mild oniony crunch, while fresh cilantro brings a zingy herbaceous note that beautifully contrasts the deep BBQ flavors. Don’t hesitate to get creative here—diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
These zucchini boats are so satisfying on their own, but if you want to round out your meal, simple side dishes are a great complement. Think a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness, or even some warm cornbread to soak up every last drop of BBQ sauce. The combination is versatile and can be tailored to what you have on hand.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe on a rustic wooden board for a casual family dinner or arrange them on colorful plates with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce around the edges. You can also cut them into smaller finger-sized pieces for a party appetizer that guests can easily grab and enjoy. Presentation is all about making this fabulous dish feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe stores very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before covering to keep the zucchini from becoming soggy. When you’re ready, they will be just as delicious as the first go-around with a quick reheat.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these zucchini boats can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to flash freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container to maintain their shape and prevent sticking. When you defrost, do so overnight in the refrigerator to keep everything tender and juicy.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your leftover Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it sometimes makes the zucchini watery, and we want to keep that perfect texture!
FAQs
Can I use other types of vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini works wonderfully for this recipe, yellow squash or halved bell peppers also make great “boats” for the sticky BBQ chicken filling. Just adjust the baking time accordingly since their textures vary.
Is it necessary to use cooked chicken?
Yes, cooked chicken is ideal because this recipe focuses on assembling and baking rather than cooking raw meat. Using cooked chicken like rotisserie helps you keep it quick, easy, and safe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Check your BBQ sauce label for gluten-free certification and ensure your cheese and other toppings are gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder or hotter?
The spiciness depends mostly on your BBQ sauce choice. For a milder dish, pick a sweet or mild BBQ sauce, and for extra heat, go for a spicy or chipotle version. You can also add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken mixture if you want to dial up the heat.
What type of cheese melts best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and Cheddar are both excellent choices as they melt nicely and complement the BBQ flavor well. You could also experiment with Monterey Jack or a smoked cheese to add an extra layer of taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe that just makes it feel like a hug on a plate. It’s easy to prepare, filled with vibrant flavors and textures, and perfect for sharing around the table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it might just become one of your favorite quick dinners to make any night of the week!
Print
Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats combining tender zucchini halves filled with savory BBQ chicken and melted cheese for a healthy, flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchini
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or mozzarella)
Optional Toppings
- Green onions, chopped
- Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the zucchini boats.
- Prepare zucchini boats: Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create hollow boats, making room for the filling.
- Season zucchini: Drizzle the inside of each zucchini half with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste for added flavor.
- Mix chicken filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Fill zucchini boats: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each prepared zucchini half, filling them generously.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filled zucchini boats, which will melt and create a delicious, gooey topping as they bake.
- Bake: Arrange the zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and optionally sprinkle with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving for extra freshness and flavor.
Notes
- You can use either Cheddar or mozzarella cheese based on your preference or availability.
- Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe, making it a great way to use up leftovers.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ chicken mixture.
- Serves well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Make sure to scoop out enough seeds from zucchini but leave some flesh intact to keep the boats sturdy.
