These Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a tasty twist on dinner! Juicy chicken mixed with garlic, sesame, and a hint of honey sits perfectly in hollowed-out zucchini.
It’s like giving zucchini a delicious hug! I love serving these with rice for a full meal. Plus, they look so fancy—nobody has to know how easy they were to make! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: The star of this dish! You want medium-sized zucchinis for the right boat shape. If zucchinis are unavailable, you can use bell peppers or eggplants as great alternatives.
Ground Chicken: I love ground chicken because it soaks up flavors well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works too! For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tofu or lentils.
Sesame Oil: This adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, a mix of vegetable oil with a little peanut oil can work. Just use less, as it’s quite strong!
Honey: Honey gives a nice sweetness. If you prefer a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be a good substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Boats Stay Firm and Delicious?
Keeping your zucchini firm is key to enjoying this recipe. Make sure to bake them briefly before stuffing; this softens them just enough without turning mushy.
- Pre-bake at 375°F for 10 minutes after brushing with oil and seasoning.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to heat evenly.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked zucchini boats that hold up well with the delicious filling!
Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should budget around 45 minutes from start to finish—easy and quick for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, making “boats.” Leave about 1/4 inch thick shell for support. Don’t throw away the scooped-out flesh—chop it finely and set aside.
2. Bake the Zucchini Boats:
Place the hollowed zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased. Brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes to soften them a bit, then take them out of the oven.
3. Make the Chicken Filling:
While the zucchini bakes, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Throw in the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink.
4. Mix in the Flavors:
Add the reserved chopped zucchini flesh and the grated ginger (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Pour this sauce into the skillet, stirring well to coat the chicken mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and glossy. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Spoon the delicious chicken mixture evenly into your pre-baked zucchini boats. Return them to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the tops are slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once you take them out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely finish. Serve warm, and enjoy with some steamed rice or a fresh side salad!
There you have it! Enjoy your flavorful, healthy Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats!
FAQ – Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground chicken gives a light flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat used!
How Long Can 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 microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water before reheating to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble the boats and bake as directed!
What Should I Serve With These Zucchini Boats?
These stuffed zucchini boats pair wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve them alongside some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal!
