Imagine juicy chicken, tangy marinara, and melty cheese all stuffed into sweet zucchini boats! This easy keto dish is both healthy and super tasty. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how fun it is to eat from a zucchini boat—who doesn’t? Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Give it a try, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish, serving as the “boat” for your filling. If you can’t find zucchinis, try other veggies like bell peppers or eggplant. They both add unique flavors too!
Ground Chicken: This is a lean protein choice, but you can swap it for turkey or even cooked shredded chicken. Using cooked chicken makes it quicker and easier, especially if you’re in a time crunch.
Marinara Sauce: Look for sugar-free options to keep it keto-friendly. If you’re out, you can use diced tomatoes with Italian spices as a substitute. Homemade marinara is also a great choice if you have the time!
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting and flavor, but feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for a different taste. Just be mindful of your carb count if you’re switching to processed cheese.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Boats Just Right?
Creating perfect zucchini boats is simple once you know how! You want to scoop them out carefully, leaving just enough flesh for structure. Here’s how:
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds and flesh—aim for about a 1/4-inch shell.
- Don’t discard the flesh! Finely chop it and mix it into your chicken filling for added moisture and flavor.
This step ensures the boats hold their shape while still being tender after baking. Overcrowding can make them mushy, so be generous but cautious!
Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or finely diced cooked chicken breast)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free, low-carb)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes. Just enough time for a delicious dinner without being rushed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your zucchini boats are assembled!
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise carefully with a knife. Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create “boats.” Leave about a 1/4-inch thick shell for structure. Set aside the scooped flesh for later use.
3. Cook the Chicken Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells delightful. Next, add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!
4. Add Zucchini and Seasoning:
Chop the reserved zucchini flesh finely and add it to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it heat through for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
Place the hollowed zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Spoon the chicken and sauce mixture generously into each boat. Make sure they are nicely filled!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat. This is where all the cheesy goodness comes into play!
7. Bake and Garnish:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden. Once done, carefully remove from the oven and let cool for a minute.
8. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a colorful touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, healthy keto dinner!
This cheesy, flavorful meal is packed with protein and low in carbs, making it perfect for anyone following a keto lifestyle. Dig in and savor every bite!
FAQ for Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground chicken is used in this recipe, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or cooked shredded rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis a day in advance. Just store the unassembled boats and filling separately in the fridge. When you’re ready, fill the boats and bake them fresh for dinner!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick fix!
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes mixed with Italian seasoning. Just be sure to check that it’s low in sugar to keep it keto-friendly!
