These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal option. Hollowed-out zucchinis are filled with a flavorful mix of seasoned vegetables and tender chicken, then baked to perfection with melted cheese on top. This dish is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a protein-packed, wholesome meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 zucchini, halved lengthwise and hollowed out
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 250g chicken breast, diced
- Cheese of your choice, grated (about 1 cup)
- 10g (2 cloves) garlic, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Chili powder, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- A pinch of cinnamon
- Basil leaves scented with bay leaf, chopped
- Thyme, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Vegetable oil, for sautéing
Directions:
Part 1: Preparing the Zucchini Boats and Vegetables
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Halve the zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the flesh to create boats. Set aside the scooped-out zucchini flesh.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and scooped-out zucchini flesh.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Add thyme and chopped basil leaves scented with bay leaf. Mix well.
- First Bake:
- Place the zucchini boats on a baking dish and fill them with the seasoned vegetable mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Part 2: Cooking the Chicken and Final Baking
5. Cook the Chicken:
- While the vegetables are baking, heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken breast and chopped garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Bake Again:
- After the initial 15 minutes of baking, remove the zucchini boats from the oven.
- Add the cooked chicken to the boats, mixing it with the vegetables.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Final Bake:
- Return the stuffed zucchini boats to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of mixed greens or a simple cucumber salad.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Cooking Tips:
- Use fresh, firm zucchinis to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Substitute chicken with ground turkey or beef for variety.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and healthy fats for bone health.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free if using gluten-free cheese.
- High in protein and low in carbohydrates.
- Can be made dairy-free with vegan cheese alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave.
- Freeze assembled but unbaked zucchini boats for up to 2 months. Thaw and bake when needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Packed with fresh vegetables and protein for a nutritious meal.
- Simple yet flavorful seasoning for a delicious and satisfying dish.
- Versatile and customizable to suit various dietary preferences.
- Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a gourmet dish. The combination of tender zucchini, savory chicken, and melted cheese is irresistible. With its customizable nature, this recipe is perfect for experimenting with different fillings and flavors. Serve it for a cozy family dinner or impress your guests with this colorful and healthy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian version. - What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan cheese work wonderfully. - How can I ensure the zucchini doesn’t become too soft?
Avoid overbaking the zucchini in the first baking step. - Can I prepare the boats in advance?
Yes, assemble them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready. - Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini boats?
Yes, freeze unbaked boats for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time. - Can I use other vegetables in the filling?
Absolutely! Add mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes for variety. - What can I serve with stuffed zucchini boats?
A fresh salad, rice, or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. - How do I hollow out the zucchini?
Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the center, leaving a sturdy border. - Can I use ground meat instead of diced chicken?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or beef works well as a substitute. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 10 minutes or in the microwave until warm.