Name: Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Jump to Recipe

Ready for a fresh, zesty twist on comfort food? This Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe transforms humble zucchinis into flavor-packed vessels filled with juicy BBQ chicken, melty cheddar, and a flurry of vibrant toppings. Imagine all the smoky, tangy satisfaction of classic BBQ, but in a lighter, veggie-forward form that still feels incredibly indulgent. It’s a dinner that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for impressing friends on the weekend—bold flavors, easy prep, and plenty of color on your plate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this recipe is picked for maximum flavor and color, yet the ingredient list stays refreshingly simple. Each component adds its own special character—crunch, richness, or a pop of freshness—that truly brings this Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe to life.

4 medium zucchinis: The perfect vehicle for all that saucy BBQ chicken, plus they add a fresh, mild flavor.
1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but any cooked, shredded chicken works beautifully here.
1 cup BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand or a homemade version; it sets the whole flavor profile and gives that irresistible stickiness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection and adds creamy richness on top of the boats.
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion: A bit of sharpness and color that keeps each bite lively and fresh.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a final flourish of herbal brightness that feels so summery.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the zucchinis roast to tender, juicy perfection and boosts flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a savory depth that melds perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Doubles down on the savory undertones in the chicken filling.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning each element just right.
Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat: For anyone who loves a little fiery kick mingled with sweet BBQ sauce!

How to Make Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The journey begins with a nicely preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). This ensures your zucchini boats cook evenly and the cheese turns perfectly golden and bubbly. Take a moment now to gather all your ingredients—it’s smoother sailing when everything is at hand!

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by rinsing your zucchinis under cold water. Once they’re dry, slice each one in half lengthwise to reveal that pretty interior. Using a spoon or melon baller, gently scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create those signature boats—deep enough to fill, but not so much that the skins are thin. A light brushing of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper add flavor and help the zucchini roast rather than wilt.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Time to get saucy! In a big bowl, combine your shredded cooked chicken, 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, half the chopped cilantro, and all that lovely red onion. Mix thoroughly so every bit of chicken gets cozy with sweet, smoky BBQ and those aromatic spices. This filling is the heart of the Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchini

Take your prepared zucchini halves and fill each one generously with the BBQ chicken mixture. Don’t be shy—pack them full, but give them a gentle press so everything stays together. They should be just brimming with goodness!

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Next, drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over the filling for that signature sticky top. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar over each boat, making sure every inch is covered. If you love heat, now’s the moment to add sliced jalapeños. You’ll see them peek out tantalizingly once baked.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer your stuffed zucchini boats to a baking dish and cover it with foil. Slide it into the preheated oven for 25 minutes so everything softens and melds. Then, take off the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes. The cheese will turn golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp at the edges—a sign it’s ready to come out!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let the boats cool for a minute or two before finishing them with more fresh cilantro. The herbs contrast beautifully against the melty cheese and BBQ sauce, making your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe pop on the plate. Serve them warm, and marvel as everyone dives in!

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

Garnishes

Top each zucchini boat with extra chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or even a few thinly sliced red onions for a burst of freshness. A little dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips can also add creaminess and crunch, making every bite even more memorable.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple side salads (think crisp romaine or a tangy coleslaw) or a bowl of sweet corn off the cob. If you’re feeling extra festive, serve alongside cornbread or grilled sweet potato wedges for a hearty, well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, plate each zucchini boat individually on vibrant plates with a scatter of cilantro and jalapeño slices. For a family-style feast, arrange the boats in a big platter down the center of the table. Mini versions using smaller zucchinis make stellar party appetizers, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Your Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make a fantastic next-day lunch you’ll genuinely look forward to!

Freezing

While the filling freezes beautifully, zucchinis can turn mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider storing the BBQ chicken mixture separately and stuffing freshly prepped zucchinis when ready to eat. Otherwise, freeze already-baked boats individually for up to 2 months, but expect a softer texture when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, place zucchini boats in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. For a speedier option, microwave on medium in short bursts. A quick extra sprinkle of cheese or a fresh garnish never hurts when serving leftovers!

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, hollowed-out potatoes, or even eggplant boats work well. The beauty of this Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe is that it adapts to whatever is in season or suits your mood.

What’s the best way to make it spicier?

Add more sliced jalapeños both to the filling and on top before baking. You can also mix in a little chipotle powder or use a spicy BBQ sauce to turn up the heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for canned lentils, black beans, or crumbled tempeh. Use the same BBQ spices and sauce for the filling and follow the steps as written—everyone at the table will still love it.

How can I keep the zucchini boats from getting soggy?

Make sure to only scoop out the seeds and not too much flesh, brush lightly with oil, and avoid overbaking. Letting them rest for a few minutes after baking helps excess steam release before serving.

Is Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free! Everything else in this dish is naturally free of gluten, making it a fabulous option for shared meals with gluten-sensitive guests.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so irresistible about the blend of savory BBQ chicken, bubbly cheese, and garden-fresh zucchini in this Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe—it’s comfort food with a healthy twist. Don’t be surprised if this dish makes a regular appearance at your table. Get creative, dig in, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 11 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Sticky BBQ Chicken Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. Tender zucchinis are filled with a savory mixture of shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheese, then baked to perfection. A perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Zucchini: Rinse the zucchinis, cut them in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Mix the Filling: Combine shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl.
Stuff the Zucchini: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each zucchini boat.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle BBQ sauce and cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American