Ingredients
Before you dive into this recipe, it’s crucial to gather your ingredients. Don’t worry—this list is short and sweet, making the prep work a breeze.
For the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
- Chicken breast – about 2 medium breasts (or use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut)
- Buffalo sauce – ½ cup (your choice of brand; go for mild to hot depending on your heat tolerance)
- Cream cheese – 4 oz, softened (for that creamy texture)
- Shredded cheddar cheese – ½ cup (adds richness)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing – 2 tbsp (optional, but highly recommended for the creamy tang)
- Garlic powder – ½ tsp (for that subtle garlic flavor)
- Onion powder – ½ tsp (adds depth)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
For the Zucchini Boats:
- Zucchini – 4 medium zucchinis (about 2 to 3 large ones for the perfect boat size)
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp (to brush on the zucchini for that crispy finish)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – ½ cup (for that gooey, melty goodness)
- Fresh parsley – optional, for garnish (adds a pop of color)
These simple ingredients come together for a meal that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use zucchini in a fun, creative way, turning an ordinary vegetable into something extraordinary.
How to Prepare Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Let’s move on to the fun part—the preparation! Follow these easy-to-understand steps to create your own Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats.
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
First, you’ll need to prep the zucchini. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center with a spoon. Be careful not to scoop too deeply; you want to leave enough flesh for the zucchini to hold its shape. The hollowed-out zucchini halves are your “boats,” ready to be filled with delicious buffalo chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, cook the chicken. You can either boil or grill it. For a quick option, you can use rotisserie chicken, which already comes cooked and shredded—saving you time. If you’re using chicken breasts, cook them thoroughly until no longer pink in the center, then shred them using a fork or your hands.
Once the chicken is shredded, mix it with buffalo sauce, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Zucchini Boats
Now it’s time to assemble! Take your hollowed-out zucchini halves and spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each “boat.” Make sure the filling is heaping and slightly overflowing for that satisfying, loaded look.
Step 4: Bake the Zucchini Boats
Place your stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the zucchini edges with a bit of olive oil for a crispy finish. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Final Thoughts: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe You’ll Love
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats offer a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrition. They’re packed with protein, veggies, and just the right amount of spice to make each bite exciting. Plus, they’re a great option for anyone looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re serving them up for dinner, lunch, or a party, these zucchini boats will surely be a hit. So next time you’re craving something healthy, hearty, and full of flavor, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
