Your taste buds are in for a treat with these Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats! They are stuffed with juicy chicken, topped with melty cheese, and bursting with flavor.
I love how easy they are to make, too! Just scoop out the zucchini, fill them up, and bake. Perfect for a fun dinner, plus they make great leftovers (if there’s any left)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This vegetable is low in carbs and perfect for boats! If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash can work as a substitute. Just look for ones that are firm and not too large, so they hold up well in the oven.
Ground Chicken: Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter flavor. I sometimes use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. It saves time and works wonderfully too!
Marinara Sauce: Opt for a sugar-free brand for a keto-friendly dish. If you’d like to make your own, simply blend canned tomatoes with garlic, basil, and a pinch of salt. It’s easy and fresh!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try vegan cheese that melts well. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor in some recipes if you prefer a sprinkle instead.
How Do I Create Perfect Zucchini Boats?
Scooping out the zucchini to make boats is key! You want enough shell left so they hold their shape. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise to expose the seeds.
- Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the center flesh. Leave about a ½ inch of zucchini on the sides for strength.
- Don’t waste that scooped flesh! Finely chop it and mix it into your chicken filling to reduce waste and boost flavor.
This technique ensures your boats are both tasty and sturdy, ready to be loaded with that delicious filling!
Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free for keto)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy dinner that’s perfect for your keto lifestyle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and efficiently.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then take a spoon and scoop out the center to create “boats.” Aim for about a ½-inch thick shell so they hold their shape and fill. Keep the scooped-out flesh on the side for later use!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until you smell the wonderful aroma. Then, add the ground chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go.
4. Mix in the Marinara:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet along with the marinara sauce. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the flavors combine nicely. Remove from heat once done.
5. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Arrange the zucchini boats in a baking dish. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each boat, making sure they are well-stuffed.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and all of the grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed zucchini boats. This will create a delightful cheesy topping!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender and the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Finish with More Cheese:
After 20 minutes, take the dish out and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, add some fresh basil or parsley on top if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesy keto chicken parmesan zucchini boats!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey or even lean beef if you prefer. For a quicker option, cooked shredded rotisserie chicken works great too!
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or even over a bed of cauliflower rice for a complete meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave until heated through. You might want to cover them to keep the cheese from getting too hard!
Can I Make Them Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground chicken with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and crumbled tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste!
