Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Name: Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 4 medium zucchinis; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: October 8, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of BBQ sauce and melted cheese creates a deliciously rich flavor.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or needs.
Healthy Alternative: Zucchini serves as a low-calorie base, allowing you to indulge without guilt.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These boats are great for making ahead and reheating throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Sharp knife
Mixing bowl
Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and holds all your delicious ingredients together.
Sharp knife: Makes slicing zucchini easy and safe, helping you achieve clean cuts.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly before filling your zucchini.
Spoon: Useful for scooping out the zucchini centers and filling them with your tasty mixture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

2 cups shredded chicken
1/2 cup BBQ sauce

For the Zucchini Boats

4 medium zucchinis

For Topping

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly.
Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise.
Using a spoon, scoop out the center to create space for the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce.
Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 4: Fill the Zucchini Boats

Spoon the chicken filling evenly into each hollowed-out zucchini half.
Top each filled boat with shredded cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Place the filled zucchinis in a baking dish and bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them in various ways, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Casual Family Dinner

Serve the zucchini boats with a side of homemade coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up all the tasty BBQ sauce.

Meal Prep Delight

Pack in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
Add some fresh fruit slices on the side for a sweet contrast.

Game Day Snack

Cut the boats into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks that are perfect for sharing.
Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or hot sauce for added flavor.

Summer BBQ Gatherings

Grill the zucchini boats instead of baking them for a smoky flavor that everyone will love.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley right before serving for an extra pop of color.

How to Perfect Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Achieving the perfect Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats is all about technique and timing. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

Choose ripe zucchinis: Select zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Shred chicken finely: Use shredded chicken that is moist and evenly coated with BBQ sauce to enhance each bite.
Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking and a nice melt on the cheese.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding sliced jalapeños or diced bell peppers on top for an added kick and texture.
Let them cool slightly: Allow the boats to cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Pairing side dishes with your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser during summer meals.
Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender makes a colorful plate.
Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add a fun twist; they can be baked or fried based on your preference.
Cauliflower Rice – This low-carb option pairs well and provides a neutral base that complements the flavors of the zucchini boats.
Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad of mixed greens dressed lightly can balance out the richness of the chicken filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Ignoring zucchini size: Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best balance of filling and cooking time. If they’re too small, they won’t hold enough filling; if too large, they may become soggy.
Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s tender and easily shredded. Overcooked chicken can lead to a dry texture, which affects the overall taste of your dish.
Using too much sauce: While BBQ sauce adds flavor, too much can make the filling runny. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.
Skipping cheese: Cheese adds a creamy layer that complements the flavors beautifully. Don’t skip it; choose a variety that melts well for the best results.
Not preheating the oven: Preheating ensures even cooking. If you skip this step, your zucchinis may cook unevenly or take longer than expected.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Best eaten within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Wrap each zucchini boat individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats:

What can I substitute for chicken in Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

You can use shredded turkey or beef as a substitute. Both options maintain the dish’s flavor profile while providing great alternatives.

How do I prepare zucchini for stuffing?

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, then slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out some of the flesh using a spoon to create boats ready for stuffing.

Can I make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Are Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats healthy?

Absolutely! They are low-calorie and packed with nutrients from zucchini and lean protein from chicken, making them a nutritious choice.

How do I customize my Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats?

Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the filling or use various cheeses based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats not only offer a delightful burst of flavor but also present an incredible canvas for customization. Try adding your favorite veggies or switching up proteins! This recipe is perfect for family meals or meal prep, ensuring everyone enjoys something deliciously satisfying. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card