High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

If you’re looking for a delicious dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to make, these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are just the ticket! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, especially on busy weeknights when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce combined with creamy cottage cheese makes for a delightful flavor explosion that everyone will love.

These stuffed zucchini boats are perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. You can whip them up ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Plus, they’re low-carb, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the extra carbs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: These zucchini boats are packed with flavor, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for quick and healthy lunches or dinners.
• Full of flavor: The combination of buffalo chicken and creamy cottage cheese creates a taste that’s hard to resist.
• Low-carb goodness: Enjoy all the deliciousness without worrying about your carb intake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. They are simple and wholesome, ensuring your stuffed zucchini boats are not only tasty but also nutritious!

• 4 medium zucchini (approx. 795 grams)
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (230 grams)
• 1 cup 1% cottage cheese (264 grams)
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (127 mL)
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup light feta cheese (57 grams)

Variations

One of the best things about these stuffed zucchini boats is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and make this dish your own.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chopped vegetables like mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your style, try using shredded mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Add some veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach or diced bell peppers into the filling for added nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot Sauce or mix in some mild salsa instead.

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that our zucchini boats cook evenly and get that delicious roasted flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out its center, creating little boats. This step is crucial as it gives us room to fill them with our tasty buffalo chicken mixture.

Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This will create a creamy base that combines beautifully with our other ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Your Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot Sauce, and all those lovely spices. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. This mixture is where all those spicy flavors come together!

Step 5: Fill the Zucchini Boats

Place your hollowed-out zucchini on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Generously fill each boat with your buffalo chicken mixture. Don’t be shy—load them up!

Step 6: Bake

Pop those filled zucchini boats into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This helps soften the zucchini while letting all those flavors meld together.

Step 7: Add Feta and Finish Baking

After 20 minutes, sprinkle light feta cheese over each boat and bake for another 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or drizzle on some light ranch dressing if you’d like. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy these delightful High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Creating the perfect buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips!

• Choose firm zucchini: Selecting firm and fresh zucchini will ensure that your boats hold their shape during baking, providing the perfect vessel for all that delicious filling.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot Sauce. You can also mix in a little honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist that balances the spice.

• Use rotisserie chicken: To save time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store. It’s convenient and adds great flavor without any extra cooking effort!

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different cheese or toppings like shredded mozzarella or avocado! These can add different textures and flavors to your dish.

• Make ahead for meal prep: Assemble the zucchini boats ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven for an easy weeknight dinner.

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These stuffed zucchini boats not only taste amazing but also look fabulous when served! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken.
• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of sliced green onions adds a mild onion flavor and vibrant green contrast to your dish.
• Drizzle of light ranch dressing: A quick drizzle of light ranch dressing on top can provide a creamy balance to the spicy filling.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with the bold flavors of the zucchini boats.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli is a nutritious addition that adds both color and crunch, plus it’s an excellent source of fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative provides a wonderful base for any leftover buffalo chicken filling you might have. Season it lightly with garlic and lemon for extra flavor.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A mixed greens salad with a variety of fresh vegetables tossed in a light vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the warm hearty zucchini boats.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are sure to impress at any dinner occasion! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy a delicious, healthy dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days.
• To maintain their flavor, try to consume them within this time frame.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed zucchini boats to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each boat individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the zucchini boats in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• You can also use a microwave if you’re short on time; just heat them in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious zucchini boats? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use a different sauce instead of Frank’s RedHot?

Absolutely! While Frank’s RedHot gives these high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats their signature flavor, you can swap it out for your favorite hot sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a different twist.

How do I ensure my zucchini boats don’t get soggy?

To prevent sogginess in your high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats, make sure to scoop out enough of the inside flesh of the zucchini and avoid overcooking them. Baking them just until tender will keep them firm and flavorful!

What other fillings can I use for these zucchini boats?

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute cooked turkey or shredded tofu for chicken and add different spices or cheese to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless!

Are these stuffed zucchini boats suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are great for meal prep since they store well and reheat nicely. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats as I am! They’re not only packed with flavor but also a fantastic way to enjoy nutritious ingredients in a fun presentation. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!