Shredded Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Name: Shredded Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized zucchinis; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Collection

I absolutely love whipping up these Shredded Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats for a quick, nutritious meal. The combination of tender, flavorful shredded chicken nestled inside fresh zucchini creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s also easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It's a delightful way to enjoy vegetables and protein, and I always feel good sharing it with family and friends.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:29:35.009Z

When I first experimented with stuffed zucchini, I knew I wanted to incorporate shredded chicken for that added protein kick. After several trials, I discovered that seasoning the chicken before cooking really elevates the flavors and brings the dish to life. It’s incredible how the natural sweetness of the zucchini complements the savory notes of the chicken.

Another tip I’ve picked up is to bake the zucchini boats until they’re just tender. This ensures that they retain a perfect bite, contrasting beautifully with the juicy chicken filling. I genuinely believe that these stuffed zucchini boats will become a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Healthy and filling, perfect for a nutritious meal
Bright flavors from fresh herbs and spices
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite fillings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to making Shredded Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats is selecting fresh, ripe zucchinis. Look for zucchinis that are smooth, firm, and free of blemishes. The skins should be vibrant green, indicating freshness. Fresh zucchinis help create a tender yet slightly crisp texture that beautifully contrasts with the savory filling. Additionally, using cooked shredded chicken gives this dish its hearty base, and you can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising flavor.

In this recipe, mozzarella cheese plays a crucial role. It not only adds creaminess but also melts beautifully, creating a lovely gooey layer atop the savory filling. If you want to add a little twist, consider using pepper jack or cheddar cheese for an extra kick. When measuring out your cheese, be generous; it’s essential for enhancing the flavor and richness of the dish.

Tips for Successful Stuffing

When you're preparing the zucchini, ensure to scoop out enough of the seeds without compromising the integrity of the boat itself. A melon baller or a small spoon works great for this task. Aim to leave about 1/4-inch border of zucchini flesh to maintain the structure while allowing for flavorful stuffing. This technique avoids sogginess during baking and ensures that the zucchini holds its shape beautifully.

Another helpful tip is to preheat the oven properly before baking the stuffed boats. This ensures even cooking throughout. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is fork-tender, and the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden on top. If the cheese isn’t browning as you’d like, you can place the baking sheet under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Zucchini Boats

4 medium-sized zucchinis
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats. Brush the insides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Stuff the Zucchini

Fill each zucchini half generously with the chicken mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in. Place them on a baking sheet.

Bake

Bake the stuffed zucchini boats for about 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.

Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or different types of cheese for added flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The beauty of Shredded Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats is how well they hold up in the refrigerator and freezer. If you're preparing these for meal prep, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, they may need an additional 5 minutes in the oven since they’ll be colder.

For longer storage, freeze the stuffed zucchini boats before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to defrost; just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes while keeping the oven temperature the same.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

These stuffed zucchini boats are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a light salad for added freshness. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the savory chicken filling perfectly, balancing the meal with zesty flavors. Additionally, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top enhances the taste and adds a creamy texture without overwhelming the dish.

Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. A sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving can elevate the flavor profile. For a spicy twist, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. These variations allow you to personalize the dish and keep it exciting for future meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey, beef, or even tofu can be used as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini boats?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed zucchini boats. Just place them in a freezer-safe container and they can last for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with these stuffed zucchini boats?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or rice.