Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s high on flavor, simple to whip up, and bursting with color, look no further than the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe. This vibrant dish combines tender zucchini boats brimming with juicy BBQ chicken, melty cheddar, and fresh cilantro, making every bite unforgettable. It’s the kind of crowd-pleaser you’ll return to time and again, perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even your next backyard party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe relies on a handful of clever, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a role: juicy chicken brings heartiness, zucchini adds freshness, while BBQ sauce and cheese deliver that craveable, comforting finish.

• Zucchinis: Aim for medium-sized for perfect boat shapes and a tender, not-too-watery result.
• Cooked chicken (shredded): Rotisserie chicken saves time, but any leftover cooked chicken will do the trick.
• BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make it from scratch for that sticky-sweet and tangy flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness; feel free to swap for a blend if you like.
• Finely chopped red onion: Offers a pop of color and a mild bite that complements the sweet BBQ sauce.
• Fresh cilantro: Brings brightness and a hint of citrus that lifts the whole dish.
• Olive oil: A light brush helps the zucchini roast up silkily and prevents sticking.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Boost the savory flavors without any extra fuss.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste so all the ingredients sing in harmony.
• Optional sliced jalapeños: Add just the right amount of heat for spice lovers.

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready by the time you assemble your boats. This step is key for that golden, bubbling cheese topping and tender zucchini texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Rinse the zucchinis thoroughly, then slice each one lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds, forming “boats” ready for filling. After that, brush the insides lightly with olive oil and sprinkle on salt and pepper. This little bit of prep ensures the zucchini gets flavorful and perfectly tender—not soggy!

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, toss together your shredded chicken, 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, the chopped red onion, and half the cilantro. Mix until everything’s coated and looks sticky and luscious. At this point, the aroma is so tempting you’ll have to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each prepared zucchini boat. Don’t be shy—pack it in, but not so tightly you break the sides. The mixture should mound slightly, promising a generous filling in every bite.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the top of the stuffed boats, then give them a hearty sprinkle of shredded cheddar. If you’re adding jalapeños for a little kick, now’s the time to lay those vibrant slices right on top.

Step 6: Bake

Nestle the zucchini boats snugly in a baking dish and cover with foil. Place them in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes to allow everything to meld together. Then remove the foil and return to the oven for 10–15 more minutes, so the cheese bubbles and turns irresistibly golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe cool for just a few minutes. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and get ready to dig into melty, savory, and sweet deliciousness!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Garnishes

A last dash of fresh cilantro is a winner, but you can also sprinkle on a few chopped green onions or an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce for even more color and zing. For extra indulgence, try a little dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime over the top.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a bright, simple salad—think crisp lettuce, tomato, and creamy avocado. Cornbread or roasted potatoes also work their magic, soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe into a showstopper by arranging the boats on a wooden platter, topped with colorful garnishes. Or slice them crosswise into “boat bites” for a unique party appetizer. You could even bake them in individual ramekins for a rustic, personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any extras will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure they’re cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked zucchini boats. Place them on a tray to flash-freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to two months, though the zucchini may become softer after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the boats in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. For a speedier option, microwave on medium in 1-minute increments, though the oven helps restore that crispy cheese top.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded?

Absolutely! Just brown the ground chicken first, then use it in place of shredded chicken for a slightly different texture, but all the same BBQ flavor.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce—whether classic, smoky, or spicy, the key is to pick one you love, as its flavor really shines in the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the chicken for black beans, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat alternative, and keep the rest of the method the same for a tasty vegetarian spin.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No peeling needed. The skin helps the zucchini maintain its shape when baked, plus it’s packed with nutrients and lovely color.

Can I assemble these ahead of time?

You sure can! Prep the zucchini and chicken filling, stuff the boats, cover, and refrigerate up to one day in advance. Just add the cheese right before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistible about the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe—big flavors, easy steps, and loads of personality on the plate. Give it a try and see why it’s a staple at my table; I think you’ll love sharing it with your favorite people too!

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