Zucchini Stuffed Barrels with Chicken is a delightful dish that merges wholesome vegetables with the juicy tenderness of seasoned chicken. This recipe is a celebration of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, filled with aromatic spices like coriander and ginger, fresh herbs like dill and parsley, and topped with a creamy, cheesy tomato layer that brings it all together. Not only does this recipe deliver on flavor, but it’s also beautifully presented—making it perfect for dinner parties, special family meals, or weekly meal prep. The combination of lean protein, fresh produce, and comforting dairy creates a balanced and deeply satisfying main course.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 25 minutes
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Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
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500 g chicken breast, finely chopped
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1 tsp salt
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⅓ tsp ground black pepper
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½ tsp dried ginger
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½ tsp ground coriander
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100 g onion, finely diced
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500 g zucchini (about 2–3 medium-sized)
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2 tomatoes, finely chopped or grated
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100 g cheese, grated (mozzarella or cheddar)
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5 sprigs fresh dill and parsley, finely chopped
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150 g sour cream (10%)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Additional salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Barrels
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Cut into thick sections, about 5–6 cm tall. Using a melon baller or small spoon, carefully scoop out the center to create hollow “barrels,” leaving the bottom intact. Set aside the zucchini pulp for use in the filling.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling
Finely chop the chicken breast and place in a large bowl. Add 1 tsp salt, ⅓ tsp pepper, ½ tsp ginger, ½ tsp coriander, and the diced onion. Mix in the chopped zucchini pulp to maintain moisture. Add half of the finely chopped herbs and stir until well combined.
3. Stuff the Zucchini
Carefully fill each zucchini barrel with the chicken mixture, pressing down lightly so they’re firmly packed but not overstuffed. Place them upright in a baking dish.
4. Make the Tomato Cream Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the grated tomatoes with sour cream, minced garlic, remaining herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and spoon the mixture evenly over the stuffed zucchini.
5. Add Cheese
Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini barrel for a golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the zucchini is tender.
7. Serve
Let cool slightly and serve hot, garnished with extra chopped herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: ~320 kcal
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 6g
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Sodium: ~800mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Stuffed vegetables are a culinary staple across cultures, from Turkish dolmas to Italian stuffed zucchini and Greek gemista. Zucchini Stuffed Barrels take cues from Mediterranean traditions, blending seasonal vegetables, lean meats, and fresh herbs. The dish has surged in popularity due to its versatility, nutritional value, and beautiful presentation. It’s beloved by home cooks looking for healthy yet comforting meals and is especially common in summer when zucchini is in season.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Visually appealing and perfect for serving guests
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Wholesome ingredients with minimal processed components
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Flavorful and aromatic with herbs, garlic, and spices
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Customizable with your favorite fillings and cheeses
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Easy to make and bake in one pan—less cleanup!
Health Benefits
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Lean protein from chicken supports muscle health
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Zucchini is low in calories and high in water and fiber
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Sour cream adds probiotics (especially if cultured)
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Fresh herbs provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits
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Garlic and onions are heart-healthy and support immune function
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a side of rice or couscous
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Pair with a light salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette
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Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side
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Serve alongside roasted potatoes for a heartier meal
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Over-hollowing the zucchini, which can cause them to collapse
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Skipping the cheese topping, which helps seal moisture and add flavor
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Not using the zucchini pulp, which adds moisture and avoids waste
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Overbaking, which can make the zucchini too soft or mushy
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Under-seasoning the chicken, which results in a bland filling
Pairing Recommendations
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Wine: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity rosé
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Drinks: Lemon-mint iced tea, cucumber water, or a sparkling spritzer
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Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread or soft pita
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Soup: Start with a chilled cucumber soup or tomato gazpacho
Cooking Tips
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Use fresh, firm zucchini for best results—they hold shape better
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Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling if you like heat
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Don’t skip the foil step, as it helps the zucchini steam before browning
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Use high-moisture cheeses like mozzarella if you want a gooey topping
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For a richer filling, add a spoon of cream cheese or ricotta
Similar Recipes to Try
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Bell Peppers Stuffed with Rice and Ground Turkey
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Baked Eggplant Boats with Beef and Cheese
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Stuffed Tomatoes with Quinoa and Feta
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Cabbage Rolls with Chicken and Tomato Sauce
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Greek Gemista (Stuffed Vegetables)
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian: Use cooked lentils or mushrooms in place of chicken
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Spicy: Add harissa paste or chopped chili to the filling
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Cheesy: Mix cream cheese or feta into the chicken filling
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Low-fat: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt
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Keto-friendly: Skip the tomatoes and add more cheese and herbs
Ingredient Spotlight: Zucchini
Zucchini is one of the most versatile vegetables, perfect for stuffing, grilling, or spiralizing into noodles. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Its mild flavor makes it a great vehicle for bold stuffings like chicken, garlic, and herbs. When cooked, zucchini softens beautifully and absorbs the savory elements in the dish, making it both functional and flavorful.
Conclusion
Zucchini Stuffed Barrels with Chicken are a balanced, vibrant, and satisfying main course that checks every box—nutritious, comforting, and visually stunning. With the gentle sweetness of zucchini, the depth of seasoned chicken, and the richness of cheese and creamy tomato topping, every bite is a burst of flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish is sure to earn its place in your go-to recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of chopped?
Yes! Ground chicken works just as well and may be quicker to mix and stuff.
2. What kind of cheese should I use?
Mozzarella or cheddar are great choices. Feta or gouda also work if you want more punch.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven.
4. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, freeze after baking. Let cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
5. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche work well as alternatives.
6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if all your ingredients (especially cheese and sour cream) are gluten-free certified.
7. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and a plant-based yogurt or cream instead of sour cream.
8. Can I prep this in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.
9. What if I don’t have dried ginger or coriander?
Use curry powder or garam masala for a similar aromatic profile.
10. Can I make this spicier?