These Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun, tasty way to enjoy a low-carb meal. They feature fresh zucchini stuffed with juicy chicken and cheesy goodness!
I love how colorful and vibrant they are! Plus, you can always add your favorite toppings to make it even more special. Who doesn’t love a little cheese on top? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash makes a tasty substitute. They both provide a similar texture.
Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is perfect here. You can use rotisserie chicken for quick prep or leftover cooked chicken. Alternatively, turkey or lean beef can be used if you prefer a different flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Choose a low-sugar marinara to keep this dish keto-friendly. If you’re out of marinara, you can use diced tomatoes mixed with Italian seasoning as a substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is my favorite because it melts beautifully. However, feel free to mix in some cheddar or use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Boats Don’t Get Soggy?
Soggy zucchini boats can ruin your dish! The key is to do a little prep first. Salt the zucchini after scooping out the seeds, letting it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry before stuffing!
- Preheat your oven, as this ensures even cooking right from the start.
- Keep the skin intact; it helps hold the shape and keeps your filling in place.
- Load up with toppings but avoid overstuffing, as this can lead to more moisture.
Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
For the Filling:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar, keto-friendly)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at a total time of roughly 35 minutes from prep to plate! Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your zucchini boats cook perfectly.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create little boats, leaving about 1/4 inch of thickness around the edges to hold the filling.
3. Season the Zucchini:
Lightly brush the insides of the zucchini boats with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them to add flavor. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
4. Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir everything well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
5. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Spoon the delicious chicken mixture into each zucchini boat, filling them generously but avoiding overflow.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken-stuffed zucchini boats for that irresistible cheesy topping.
7. Bake:
Carefully place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. You’ll love the aroma!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the zucchini boats from the oven. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve them hot and enjoy your tasty, keto-friendly meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Meat for the Filling?
Absolutely! While shredded chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even cooked sausage for a different twist. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the sauce!
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can use diced tomatoes mixed with Italian seasoning or make a quick tomato sauce with canned tomato puree and your favorite seasonings. Just keep it low-sugar to stay keto-friendly.
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini boats and fill them with the chicken mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy them warm for a quick meal!
