This stuffed zucchini boats recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. With tender zucchini shells filled with a savory mixture of chicken, vegetables, and cheese, it’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Follow these detailed instructions to create a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best results.
• Oil (for greasing): Use any cooking oil you prefer to grease the zucchini shells.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• Chicken breast: Provides protein and a hearty texture.
• Tomato: Adds juiciness and a fresh flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the overall taste with a fragrant aroma.
• Green coriander and basil: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and freshness.
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the filling.
• Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese for topping; options include cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   • Set your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for pre-baking the zucchini shells.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
   • Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise to create two long boats. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the pulp, leaving a thin shell about 1/4 inch thick. This step creates the cavity for your filling.
3. Season and Grease:
   • Grease the inside of the zucchini shells with oil. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
   • Season the zucchini shells with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the zucchini.
4. Pre-Bake the Zucchini:
   • Place the zucchini shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly oiled baking dish.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This pre-baking softens the zucchini slightly, making it easier to fill and ensuring it cooks evenly with the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Chop the Ingredients:
   • Dice the zucchini pulp, onion, chicken breast, and tomato into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that all ingredients cook evenly and mix well together.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped zucchini pulp and onion. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add the Chicken:
   • Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Garlic:
   • Add the chopped tomato and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomato is softened and the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally.
5. Mix in Fresh Herbs:
   • Stir in the chopped green coriander and basil. These fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and freshness to the filling.
6. Add Mayonnaise:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and mix in 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. The mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together.

3. Assemble the Zucchini Boats

1. Fill the Zucchini Shells:
   • Remove the pre-baked zucchini shells from the oven. Carefully spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into each zucchini shell, packing it in slightly.
2. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle a generous amount of grated cheese over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat. The cheese adds flavor and creates a deliciously gooey topping.

4. Bake the Zucchini Boats

1. Increase Oven Temperature:
   • Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (392°F). This higher temperature helps the cheese melt and brown nicely.
2. Bake the Stuffed Zucchini:
   • Return the stuffed zucchini boats to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

5. Serve

1. Cool Slightly:
   • Allow the zucchini boats to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle.
2. Garnish (Optional):
   • Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro adds a touch of color and extra flavor.
3. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve the stuffed zucchini boats warm as a main dish or a side. They pair well with a simple salad or a side of rice for a complete meal.