Get ready for a tasty treat with Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats! These yummy zucchini halves are filled with juicy chicken, garlic, and a touch of honey that adds a sweet twist.
They’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them before! I love serving these boats hot right out of the oven—perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of this dish! Look for firm zucchinis—medium-sized work best. If you can’t find zucchini, you might try yellow squash. It’s a similar texture and flavor.
Ground Chicken: Ground turkey or pork can be great alternatives. They both add a different flavor profile while keeping the dish healthy. If you want a vegetarian option, use lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor. However, if you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a faster option—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of fresh garlic.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty taste that’s key to the dish. If you can’t find it, use olive oil, but know it won’t have the same flavor. Toasted sesame oil is a nice, fragrant choice if you have it.
Honey: Honey is fantastic for sweetness, but agave syrup or maple syrup can work just as well if you prefer a vegan option.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Boats Don’t Get Soggy?
To keep your zucchini boats from becoming mushy, a key step is to pre-bake them slightly. This helps firm them up before adding the filling. Here’s how:
- After scooping out the zucchini, drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt before pre-baking for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- During the filling process, make sure to cook off excess moisture from the chicken and zucchini flesh to keep the mixture from making the boats soggy.
These small steps will ensure you get tender yet sturdy zucchini boats every time!
Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy these flavorful Chicken Zucchini Boats in under an hour! Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and a little of the flesh, creating a “boat” shape. Leave about 1/4-inch of zucchini flesh as the walls to hold the filling. Set the scooped flesh aside for later!
3. Cook the Chicken Filling:
In a skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, add minced garlic (and ginger, if you’re using it) and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells delicious and fragrant.
4. Brown the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken into the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook it for around 5–7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through.
5. Add Zucchini Flesh:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2–3 minutes, just until the zucchini softens.
6. Mix in Soy Sauce and Honey:
Stir in the soy sauce and honey. Give it a good mix and cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors blend together. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste!
7. Prepare the Zucchini Boats:
Drizzle the zucchini boats lightly with olive oil and place them in a baking dish. This will help them get a nice texture while baking.
8. Fill the Boats:
Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each zucchini boat. Make sure to fill them well for that flavorful bite!
9. Bake:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchinis are tender, and the filling is nice and hot.
10. Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a fresh, crunchy finish.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these fantastic Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats warm. Gather your friends or family around and enjoy this yummy dish!
FAQ for Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork can be great substitutes for ground chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the filling hearty and flavorful.
What Should I Do If the Zucchini Boats Are Soggy?
To avoid soggy zucchini boats, you can pre-bake the zucchini halves for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps them firm up. Additionally, make sure to cook off any excess moisture in the chicken filling before stuffing the boats.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini boats and filling in advance. Just fill the boats with the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy a quick, tasty meal!
