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If you’re looking for a healthy yet satisfying dinner idea, this Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats recipe is going to be your new low-carb obsession!
Whether you’re trying to cut down on carbs, follow a keto diet, or just want something nutritious and tasty, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Packed with flavor, high in protein, and incredibly easy to make, these zucchini boats will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini Boats
- Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp using a spoon to create “boats.” Leave about ¼ inch of flesh around the edges.
- Arrange the zucchini halves in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pre-bake the zucchini boats for 10 minutes to soften them slightly.
3. Cook the Ground Chicken Filling
- While the zucchini is pre-baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
4. Stuff the Zucchini Boats
- Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and spoon the ground chicken mixture evenly into each boat.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake
- Return the zucchini boats to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 310 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect for Low-Carb and Keto Diets:
This Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats recipe is ideal for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
By using zucchini as the base instead of pasta or bread, you’re keeping carbs to a minimum while still enjoying a hearty, filling meal.
The ground chicken provides plenty of protein, and the cheese adds a delicious creaminess that satisfies without the need for extra carbs.
2. Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner:
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and only 30 minutes in the oven, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
The simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip this up without a lot of fuss, but still end up with a meal that feels special.
3. Packed with Flavor:
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the ingredients—these zucchini boats are bursting with flavor!
The combination of tender zucchini, savory ground chicken, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs like oregano and basil makes every bite absolutely delicious.
You can even customize the flavor by adding your favorite spices or a touch of heat with chili flakes.
4. Healthy and Nutritious:
This dish is a well-balanced meal that’s not only low in carbs but also packed with essential nutrients.
Zucchini is a great source of vitamins C and A, as well as fiber. Ground chicken is a lean protein option that helps with muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer.
Plus, using olive oil and fresh garlic boosts the heart-healthy fats and antioxidants in the recipe.
5. Customizable for Different Tastes:
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or someone with dietary restrictions, there’s a version of this recipe that will suit their needs.
You can easily swap out ground chicken for turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Dairy-free?
No problem—just use a dairy-free cheese alternative, and you’ve got a delicious meal for everyone.
6. Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved:
Kids and adults alike love zucchini boats because they’re fun to eat and customizable.
The ground chicken filling can be flavored to suit any palate, and the melted cheese on top is always a hit.
This is a great way to sneak more veggies into a meal while keeping it delicious and satisfying for the whole family.
7. Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Option:
These zucchini boats are fantastic for meal prepping.
You can make the ground chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge, or even stuff the zucchini boats and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
They also reheat beautifully, making them a perfect option for leftovers or packed lunches.
8. Impressive Presentation Without the Effort:
Even though this recipe is simple to prepare, the final presentation is elegant and sure to impress.
The vibrant green zucchini, golden melted cheese, and fresh parsley garnish create a dish that looks as good as it tastes.
It’s perfect for serving when you have guests over or if you just want to elevate your weeknight dinner.
9. Affordable Ingredients:
This recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores.
Ground chicken, zucchini, and pantry staples like garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil come together to create a flavorful, nutritious dish without breaking the bank.
10. Great for Leftovers:
If you love a meal that tastes just as good (or even better) the next day, these zucchini boats are for you.
They reheat well in the oven or microwave, making them perfect for meal prep, next-day lunches, or an easy dinner for the following evening.
With all these reasons, it’s clear why these Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats are bound to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
Customizations and Variations
One of the best things about this Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats recipe is its versatility.
Whether you’re looking to switch up ingredients to suit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or just want to add a fun twist to the dish, there are endless ways to make this recipe your own.
Here are some great customizations and variations to try:
1. Protein Substitutions
If you want to switch up the protein or accommodate different dietary preferences, try these alternatives:
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey to keep the meal lean and low in fat, while slightly enhancing the flavor with a richer taste.
- Ground Beef: If you’re not concerned about calories or fat, ground beef adds a heartier, more robust flavor to the dish. Use lean beef to keep it on the healthier side.
- Ground Pork or Sausage: For a bolder flavor, try using ground pork or sausage. Spicy sausage works particularly well if you want a bit of heat!
- Plant-Based Ground Meat: For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the ground chicken with a plant-based ground meat substitute. This keeps the recipe high in protein and low in carbs while making it vegan-friendly.
2. Cheese Variations
The cheese in this recipe adds creaminess and flavor, but there are many other cheeses you can experiment with:
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar can add a bolder, tangier flavor. It’s perfect if you want the dish to have a heartier, more comforting taste.
- Monterey Jack: If you prefer a milder flavor, try using Monterey Jack. It melts beautifully and offers a slightly buttery flavor.
- Feta or Goat Cheese: For a Mediterranean twist, crumble some feta or goat cheese over the stuffed zucchini boats after baking. These cheeses add a delightful tang that pairs well with the zucchini and chicken.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, there are many plant-based cheese options that melt well and taste great. Look for mozzarella-style dairy-free cheese for a similar texture.
3. Add Extra Vegetables
You can pack even more nutrition into this dish by incorporating other vegetables into the filling:
- Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers add a pop of color and a slight sweetness to the filling.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms are a great way to add earthy flavor and extra moisture to the filling.
- Spinach: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach when cooking the chicken for a nutrient boost.
- Carrots or Zucchini Pulp: If you don’t want to waste the zucchini pulp you scooped out, finely chop it and add it to the chicken filling for extra texture.
4. Spice it Up
If you like your meals with a little kick, try these spice variations:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for some heat.
- Cajun Seasoning: For a Southern-inspired flavor, mix in Cajun seasoning to give the filling a spicy, smoky kick.
- Sriracha or Hot Sauce: Drizzle some Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the chicken mixture or on top after baking to add extra spice.
5. Herb Infusions
Fresh herbs can bring a burst of flavor and fragrance to your zucchini boats:
- Fresh Basil: Instead of dried basil, use fresh basil leaves to top the zucchini boats after baking. This adds a vibrant and aromatic touch.
- Cilantro: For a more Mexican-inspired twist, garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
- Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs add a slightly woodsy, earthy flavor that pairs well with the ground chicken. You can sauté the herbs with the filling for extra flavor depth.
6. Different Sauces and Toppings
You can completely change the flavor profile of the dish by incorporating different sauces or toppings:
- Tomato Sauce: For an Italian twist, spoon marinara or tomato sauce over the zucchini boats before baking. This creates a lasagna-like feel to the dish.
- Tzatziki Sauce: For a Greek-inspired version, serve the boats with a dollop of tzatziki on top.
- Pesto: Drizzle basil pesto over the boats after they’re baked for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
7. Low-Carb and Keto Options
This recipe is already a fantastic low-carb and keto meal, but here are a few more adjustments you can make to keep it keto-friendly:
- Extra Cheese: Boost the fat content by adding more cheese. You can also use cream cheese mixed into the ground chicken filling for added creaminess.
- Skip the Tomatoes: If you’re strict keto and want to reduce carbs further, omit the diced tomatoes from the filling. You can add more zucchini pulp or other low-carb veggies like mushrooms instead.
8. Grain-Free and Gluten-Free Adjustments
For those with gluten or grain sensitivities:
- Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle some gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour mixed with Parmesan over the boats before baking for an extra layer of texture.
- Skip the Cheese for Paleo: For a Paleo-friendly version, omit the cheese or use a Paleo-approved dairy substitute.
9. Different Cuisines
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability to different cuisines. Here are a few ideas to give it an international twist:
- Mexican-Inspired Zucchini Boats: Add cumin, chili powder, and black beans to the filling and top with a Mexican blend of shredded cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of sour cream or salsa.
- Greek Zucchini Boats: Use ground lamb or beef with spices like oregano, cinnamon, and allspice. Top with feta and serve with a side of tzatziki.
- Asian-Inspired Zucchini Boats: Use ground chicken with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. Add green onions and sesame seeds as a garnish.
10. Make It a Meal Prep or Freezer-Friendly Dish
These zucchini boats are great for meal prep or even freezing:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the ground chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stuff the zucchini boats just before baking.
- Freezing: To make these boats freezer-friendly, prepare the stuffed zucchini but don’t bake them. Instead, freeze them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
With these customizations and variations, you can adapt the Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats recipe to fit your preferences, dietary needs, and even mood.
Whether you’re looking for a keto-friendly dinner, a cheesy comfort food dish, or a veggie-packed meal, this recipe has you covered!
Give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to make a healthy, delicious meal in under 30 minutes!
Let us know in the comments below how you customized your Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats.
Don’t forget to share your results in the comment section!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats
These simple tips and tricks will help you master the Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats recipe and make the cooking process even easier and more enjoyable:
1. Choosing the Right Zucchini
- Size Matters: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis, as they are easier to hollow out and create the perfect “boat” shape. Larger zucchinis tend to have more water content, which can make the boats soggy.
- Freshness is Key: Make sure to use fresh, firm zucchinis for the best texture. Soft or overripe zucchinis can break apart when baking.
2. Don’t Over-Scoop the Zucchini
- Leave Enough Flesh: When scooping out the zucchini to create the boats, leave about ¼ inch of flesh around the edges. This ensures that the zucchini holds its shape while baking and prevents it from becoming too flimsy.
3. Pre-Baking for Best Results
- Pre-Bake to Avoid Soggy Boats: Pre-baking the zucchini for about 10 minutes helps soften it slightly and removes some of the excess water. This step prevents the boats from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
- Pat Dry After Pre-Baking: After pre-baking the zucchini, pat the insides dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before adding the filling.
4. Drain the Filling
- Avoid a Watery Filling: If your diced tomatoes or any other ingredients release too much moisture, the filling can become watery, which might affect the texture of the zucchini boats. Drain any excess liquid from the cooked ground chicken mixture before stuffing the zucchini.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping
- Breadcrumbs for Texture: For a nice crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF option) mixed with Parmesan cheese on top of the stuffed boats before baking.
- Almond Flour for Keto: If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, use almond flour mixed with cheese as a crunchy, keto-friendly topping.
6. Make It Your Own
- Customize the Filling: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the filling! You can easily add vegetables, change up the protein, or use different cheeses based on what you have on hand or what flavors you prefer.
- Make it Spicy: Add a bit of heat by stirring in chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the filling.
7. Portion Control
- Zucchini Size Affects Portioning: If you’re using larger zucchinis, one half may be sufficient as a serving size. For smaller zucchinis, you may want to serve two halves per person to make a complete meal.
8. Cook the Filling Thoroughly
- Ensure Even Cooking: Cook the ground chicken mixture until fully browned and the vegetables are tender before stuffing the zucchini boats. This ensures the filling is flavorful and cooked through once the boats are baked.
9. Leftovers and Reheating
- Reheat in the Oven for Best Texture: While these zucchini boats reheat well in the microwave, the oven is a better option if you want to preserve the texture. Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Use Them for Meal Prep: These boats store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Prepare them in advance for quick meals throughout the week.
10. Freezing Tips
- Freeze Before Baking: To freeze zucchini boats, prepare them up to the point of baking. Place the stuffed (but uncooked) boats on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats turn out perfectly every time—whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, prepping meals ahead, or making them for guests.
Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures to make this dish your own!
Printable Recipe Card
Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats Recipe: Your Next Low-Carb Obsession
Ground Chicken and Zucchini Boats Recipe: Your Next Low-Carb Obsession
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can diced tomatoes drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the flesh. Pre-bake for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ground chicken and brown. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fill zucchini boats: Stuff pre-baked zucchini with the chicken mixture. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Nutritional Info per Serving:
- Calories: 310
- Carbs: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
Notes
Recipe Tips:
- Pre-Cook the Zucchini: Pre-baking the zucchini boats for 10 minutes softens them slightly, ensuring they cook evenly without becoming too mushy. Don’t skip this step for the perfect texture!
- Drain the Tomatoes: Make sure to fully drain the diced tomatoes to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. This helps the zucchini boats hold their shape and prevents sogginess.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella and Parmesan create a classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for a twist.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor. Just double the amount if using fresh.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the ground chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the zucchini boats just before baking.
- Custom Fillings: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for an added nutritional boost and more complex flavor.
- Make It Spicy: For those who like a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for some heat.
- Zucchini Size: If your zucchinis are large, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Conversely, for smaller zucchinis, check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
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