Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe (Print Version)
Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a flavorful, healthy meal. Enjoy tender chicken, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and fresh zucchini for a satisfying dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Zucchini Vessel
01 -
4 medium zucchini
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 tsp salt
04 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Sticky BBQ Chicken Core
05 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
06 -
1 tbsp olive oil
07 -
1/2 cup good quality BBQ sauce
08 -
1 tbsp honey
09 -
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
10 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
12 -
1/4 tsp onion powder
13 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Flavorful Finishing Touches
14 -
1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 -
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
16 -
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
17 -
2 tbsp crispy fried onions
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve 4 medium zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the seeds, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
02 -
Dice 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1/2-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This forms the core of your Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, combine 1/2 cup good quality BBQ sauce, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
05 -
Spoon the Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken mixture evenly into the hollowed zucchini halves. Top each boat with 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Arrange the filled boats on the baking sheet.
06 -
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender-crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For the best Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe, a slight char on the cheese is desirable.
07 -
Carefully remove the Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats from the oven. Garnish immediately with 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tbsp crispy fried onions. Serve hot.
# Notes:
01 -
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ mixture.
02 -
Leftover zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
03 -
These boats are a complete meal, but pair wonderfully with a light green salad or a side of roasted corn for extra veggies.
04 -
Don't overcook the zucchini in the initial bake; it should still have a slight bite for the best texture in your finished boats.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Baking sheet
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Mixing bowls
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Sharp knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 428 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 32 g
Protein: 27 g