Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Name: Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup sticky BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 4 medium zucchinis; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: green onions, cilantro

Published: October 1, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: These zucchini boats can be made in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Filling: The combination of shredded chicken and sticky BBQ sauce ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using different types of cheese.
Healthy Alternative: Zucchini boats offer a low-carb option compared to traditional stuffed dishes.
Great for Meal Prep: These boats store well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Knife
Cutting board
Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Knife: A sharp knife allows you to easily cut the zucchini in half and scoop out the insides without any hassle.
Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Mixing Bowl: Use this for combining your chicken and BBQ sauce, ensuring even coating before filling the zucchini.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup sticky BBQ sauce
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

For the Zucchini Boats

4 medium zucchinis
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings (green onions, cilantro)

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot when you put in your zucchini boats.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash each zucchini thoroughly under cold water.
Slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh using a spoon, creating space for the filling.
Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the shredded chicken with sticky BBQ sauce until well coated.
2. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Fill the Zucchini Boats

Place the prepared zucchini halves in a baking dish.
Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheese over each filled zucchini boat to add a delicious cheesy layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like green onions or cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or preparing for a family gathering, these delicious boats can take center stage on your table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

Straight from the Oven: Serve the zucchini boats hot and fresh, right out of the oven for maximum flavor.
With Extra BBQ Sauce: Offer additional BBQ sauce on the side for those who love extra tang and sweetness.

Meal Prep Option

In Meal Prep Containers: Divide the boats into meal prep containers with a side of veggies or whole grains for easy lunches throughout the week.
Chilled Side Salad: Pair with a refreshing side salad to balance the richness of the BBQ chicken.

Game Day Snack

Finger Food Style: Cut the zucchini boats into smaller pieces for easy snacking during game day.
With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch or a yogurt-based dip for added flavor and variety.

How to Perfect Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

To make sure your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for firm zucchinis without blemishes for the best texture and taste.
Pre-cook Your Chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or cook it ahead of time to save on prep time.
Don’t Overstuff: Fill each zucchini half just enough to allow room for cheese without spilling over.
Experiment with Toppings: Try different cheeses or add jalapeños for a spicy kick that complements the BBQ flavor.
Bake Until Golden: Ensure you bake until the tops are golden brown for that perfect melty cheese finish.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats pair wonderfully with various sides that enhance their flavors. Consider these delightful options to create a well-rounded meal.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and is great for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory zucchini boats.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients and balances out the richness of the dish.
Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with fresh veggies can add texture and protein, making your meal more filling.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with BBQ flavors.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob offers a fun, summery vibe that complements this dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Underestimating Zucchini Size: Choosing overly large zucchinis may lead to watery boats. Opt for medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture and flavor.
Ignoring Pre-Cooking: Failing to pre-cook the zucchini can result in tough skins. Lightly bake or grill them before adding the filling for a tender bite.
Overfilling the Boats: Stuffing too much filling can cause spills during cooking. Fill them generously but leave some space for expansion.
Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning on the chicken can make the dish bland. Ensure you season the chicken well before mixing it with BBQ sauce.
Choosing Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: Using a sauce that lacks flavor can ruin your recipe. Select a high-quality BBQ sauce that complements the chicken and zucchini.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Best consumed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Wrap each boat individually in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped boats into a freezer-safe bag or container; they last up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for about 2–3 minutes, checking halfway.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook for about 5–7 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats:

Can I use other proteins in Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas.

How can I customize my Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

You can add vegetables such as corn, bell peppers, or black beans to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Are Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats gluten-free?

Most BBQ sauces are gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.

What toppings work well with Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

You can top them with shredded cheese, fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or even jalapeños for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these boats will keep everyone satisfied. Give them a try and enjoy a fun twist on comfort food!

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