Craving something satisfying yet healthy for dinner? These Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a must-try! They combine juicy ground chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese, all nestled into tender zucchini halves. Perfect for a low-carb dinner, a healthy comfort meal, or even a quick family-friendly weeknight recipe, these zucchini boats are loaded with protein and flavor. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, meal prep inspiration, or just a new way to enjoy veggies, this easy recipe is one to save!

Not only does this dish deliver on flavor, but it also checks the boxes for nutritional needs. Packed with protein and low in carbs, these stuffed zucchinis provide a great way to enjoy your daily veggies without feeling deprived. The interaction of the delectable sauces and cheeses melds together, offering a delicious experience that even your kids will love. Plus, these zucchini boats are versatile; you can have them as a delightful main course or a side that complements any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Healthy yet satisfying meal that keeps you full without extra carbs.
Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dish.
Full of flavor from the combination of flavorful marinara and rich cheeses.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Great for meal prep; they reheat beautifully.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, there are a few important steps to prepare your kitchen and workspace. Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above and ensure you have the following tools on hand:

Cutting board and sharp knife for slicing the zucchinis.
Large skillet for sautéing the meat and vegetables.
Baking dish to hold the zucchini boats during baking.
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in quantities.
Mixing bowl for combining the filling ingredients.

Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) at this stage is essential, as it allows for even cooking of the zucchini boats. Cleaning your cooking area and organizing your ingredients will also streamline the cooking process and make it more enjoyable.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
1 egg, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil for cooking and brushing
Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Zucchini

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the insides with a spoon, creating 1/4-inch thick shells. This part is crucial as the hollowed-out shell will be the vessel for your savory filling. Once scooped, brush the insides with olive oil and lightly sprinkle with salt, then arrange them in a baking dish cut-side up, ready for filling.

Step 2: Sautéing the Base

In a large skillet, heat about one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion first and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Follow by adding the minced garlic; cook for an additional minute. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of your filling. Once the onions are soft, stir in the ground chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and basil. Cook the mixture until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Finally, stir in three-quarters of a cup of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes before removing it from the heat.

Step 3: Combine and Fill

After the chicken mixture cools slightly, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add in the beaten egg and the breadcrumbs (if you prefer a crunchier filling) along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until well combined. Now, it’s time to generously spoon the filling into each of the hollowed zucchini halves, ensuring they are packed well. To elevate the flavor further, drizzle some extra marinara sauce on top of the filled zucchinis.

Step 4: Going Cheesy!

For the grand finale, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top of each zucchini boat. Not only does this add a melty touch, but it also creates that wonderful golden crust once baked. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven, letting them bake for about 25 minutes; this will ensure the zucchini is tender. In the last 10-12 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown.

Step 5: Let’s Serve!

Once the zucchini boats are beautifully golden and bubbling, remove them from the oven and let cool for roughly 5 minutes. Right before serving, give them a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground turkey or veal for a different flavor profile, or even try using lentils for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes for heat, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky addition.

Cooking Notes

For extra flavor, you can roast the zucchini before stuffing to bring out their natural sweetness.
To keep the zucchini from getting too watery, make sure to not overcook the stuffing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these stuffed zucchini boats with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Serve with garlic bread for a truly comforting Italian experience.

Tips

For an even crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! These zucchini boats freeze well. Just place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How do I know if the zucchini is done?

Your zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese on top should be golden and bubbly.

Can I use other cheeses?

Definitely! Feel free to swap in cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a different twist in flavor.

Conclusion

These Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats are sure to become a favorite dish in your home. They offer the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, with so many variations, you can make this dish your own. We hope you enjoy trying this recipe as much as we enjoyed creating it. Let us know how yours turned out, and feel free to share your own unique twists in the comments below!