Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

You know what’s funny and a little annoying too is how the kitchen can be full of surprises and not always the good kind because the first time I tried making zucchini boats I actually burnt them and of course the smoke alarm went off and I had to open every window and fan the smoke with a dish towel yet somehow I still laughed about it because that’s just me always rushing.

And the second time wasn’t much better either because I cut the zucchini too thin so they broke apart while I was scooping them and I remember thinking why am I even doing this when pasta would be so much easier but I kept going and trust me I was glad I did because when they finally came out golden and cheesy I was shocked at how good they tasted and honestly a little proud too

Have you ever had one of those cooking moments where you almost give up but then the food surprises you and it’s worth it in the end because that’s exactly what zucchini boats are they look tricky but really they’re just playful little veggie boats you can stuff with anything you like and once you try them you’ll probably want to make them again and again.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 cup ground beef, chicken, or turkey (cooked)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Ingredients notes

• Zucchini: These are the little green veggies that look like cucumbers. They are the boat part.
• Olive oil: This is a healthy oil that makes the food shiny and helps cook everything.
• Cooked rice: You don’t have to use it, but it makes the boats extra filling like a rice bowl.
• Onion: This adds flavor that makes the inside taste sweet and savory.
• Garlic: Tiny but very powerful, garlic makes the smell and taste stronger in a yummy way.
• Meat: You can use beef, chicken, or turkey. You can even skip it if you want just veggies.
• Tomato sauce: This is what makes the inside juicy and delicious.
• Salt and pepper: These make the food taste better and not boring.
• Italian seasoning: This is a mix of herbs that make the food taste like pizza or pasta.
• Cheese: This melts on top and makes the boats gooey and stretchy.
• Parmesan cheese: This adds a little sharp flavor and makes the boats taste fancier.

How to make Zucchini Boats?

Step 1: Prepare the zucchini

Wash the zucchini well with water. Cut them in half lengthwise, like two little canoes. Take a spoon and gently scoop out the soft inside part. Leave the outside green shell, because that is the “boat.” Save the inside flesh in a bowl because we will use it later.

Step 2: Cook the filling

Put a pan on the stove and add olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until they smell nice. Then add the meat and cook it until it turns brown and is no longer pink. Add the chopped zucchini flesh you scooped out before. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let everything cook together for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Fill the boats

Place the zucchini shells on a baking tray. Spoon the cooked filling into each zucchini half. Press it down a little so it stays inside.

Step 4: Add cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each zucchini boat. Then sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese too.

Step 5: Bake

Put the tray in the oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until the zucchini is soft but not mushy, and the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Enjoy

Take the tray out carefully. Let it cool for a few minutes. Your zucchini boats are ready to eat!

Kitchen equipment needed

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon
• Frying pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Bowl
• Baking tray
• Oven

Storage options

If you don’t finish eating all your zucchini boats, don’t worry! You can keep them safe in the fridge. Put them in a container with a lid and they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you want to eat them again, just put them in the oven or microwave until warm. If you want to save them for later, you can even freeze them. Wrap each boat in foil and put them in a freezer bag. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer. To eat them, let them thaw in the fridge and then warm them up in the oven.

Variations

Zucchini boats are like a blank canvas. You can change what goes inside every time! Instead of meat, you can add beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian boat. You can fill them with rice, quinoa, or couscous if you want more grains. You can make them Mexican style by adding taco seasoning, corn, and black beans. You can even make pizza zucchini boats by adding pizza sauce, pepperoni, and lots of mozzarella cheese. If you like spicy food, add chili flakes or hot sauce. Each version will taste new and exciting!

What to enjoy with this recipe?

When I make zucchini boats I like to mix and match them with other foods because they taste even better with the right sides so you can enjoy them with a fresh garden salad or with roasted potatoes that get all crispy in the oven and you can also pair them with garlic bread that’s warm and buttery or a small bowl of tomato soup for a cozy touch and if you’re really hungry some fluffy rice or pasta goes perfectly too and for something lighter a plate of grilled veggies on the side makes the meal extra colorful and let’s not forget a little dip of ranch or hummus just for fun and honestly my favorite part is sipping on a glass of Autumn Harvest Punch Recipe while eating them because the sweet fruity drink with the cheesy savory boats feels like the perfect balance

Tips for making the best zucchini boats

Pick medium zucchinis, not too big and not too small. Big ones can be watery, and small ones don’t hold much filling. Scoop gently so you don’t break the shell. Cook the filling well so it tastes rich and yummy. Always season with enough salt and pepper. Use plenty of cheese for the best gooey top. If you want the boats less soft, bake them for a shorter time. If you want them really tender, bake them a little longer. Taste the filling before putting it into the boats to make sure it is flavorful.

FAQ

What is this recipe made of?

It is made of zucchini, meat, tomato sauce, and cheese, all baked together.

What does it taste like?

It tastes savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet from the zucchini.

Can I make zucchini boats without meat?

Yes, you can fill them with beans, rice, or just veggies.

Do zucchini boats taste like pizza?

Yes, they can if you add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and cheese.

Are zucchini boats healthy?

Yes, they are full of veggies, protein, and not too heavy.

Can I freeze zucchini boats?

Yes, wrap them well and freeze for up to 2 months.

How long do they last in the fridge?

They last about 3 days if stored in a container.

Do kids like zucchini boats?

Yes, kids like them because they look like little food boats.

Can I add rice inside zucchini boats?

Yes, rice makes them extra filling.

What cheese is best for zucchini boats?

Mozzarella is gooey, cheddar is sharp, and Parmesan adds extra flavor.

How do I know when zucchini boats are ready?

When the zucchini is soft and the cheese is golden.

Can I make zucchini boats spicy?

Yes, you can add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.