Go Back
Adam

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats: A Healthy Flavor Bomb

When you want a meal that’s light, flavorful, and satisfying, these Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are the answer. Fresh zucchini gets hollowed out and stuffed with tender shredded chicken coated in sticky, smoky BBQ sauce—then baked until bubbly and delicious. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the bold flavors of BBQ chicken without the heaviness of bread or fried sides. The zucchini acts as the perfect edible “boat,” making it gluten-free, veggie-packed, and a total weeknight winner. Top it with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs, and you’ve got a dish that’s not just healthy—it’s crave-worthy.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Spoon (for scooping zucchini)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
  1. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the centers to create “boats,” leaving about ¼ inch of flesh. Chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and the chopped zucchini flesh. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Make the Filling
  1. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, sautéed zucchini mixture, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Boats
  1. Place zucchini halves into the baking dish. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture evenly into each boat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
  1. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve warm.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended (zucchini gets watery).
Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
🥄 Variations
Buffalo Style: Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce, top with ranch drizzle.
Tex-Mex Twist: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the filling.
Low-Carb Creamy: Mix cream cheese into the chicken filling for extra richness.
Veggie-Packed: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauté.
Cheese Lovers: Top with mozzarella or pepper jack for extra gooeyness.
❓ 10 FAQs
Do I need to cook the zucchini before stuffing?
No, baking softens it perfectly.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a quick and flavorful option.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Sweet, smoky, or spicy—all work depending on your preference.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken for black beans, quinoa, or lentils.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Do the zucchini boats get soggy?
Not if you leave some flesh and avoid overbaking.
What side dishes pair well?
A green salad, roasted potatoes, or coleslaw.
Can I use yellow squash instead?
Yes, it works the same way.
Can I add extra protein?
Yes, mix in crumbled chicken sausage or ground turkey.
How do I make them spicier?
Use spicy BBQ sauce or add diced jalapeños.
🏁 Conclusion
These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats prove that healthy dinners don’t have to be boring. With smoky BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and tender zucchini boats, you get a dish that’s flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying all at once.
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even casual entertaining, these boats pack a punch of flavor while keeping things light. They’re a delicious way to enjoy BBQ chicken in a fun and veggie-forward way!