These Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun and healthy twist on a classic dish! With delicious chicken, melty cheese, and fresh zucchini, they make a great low-carb meal.
Plus, you can’t go wrong with cheesy goodness! I love how easy they are to make and how they disappear quickly at dinner time. Your family will be asking for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the star of the show! Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis with smooth skin. If you don’t have zucchini, you could use eggplant or bell peppers for a different take.
Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken keeps the dish light. If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken works great too!
Marinara Sauce: Go for no-sugar-added marinara to keep it keto-friendly. You can substitute with homemade tomato sauce or even pesto if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheese: Mozzarella is perfect for melting — it helps bind everything deliciously. A mixture of cheeses, like provolone or even cheddar, can be used based on your taste preference.
How Can You Cut and Scoop Zucchini Efficiently?
Cutting and scooping zucchini can feel tricky, but with the right technique, it’s a breeze! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, use a sharp knife to slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Make sure to keep your hand steady on the veggie while cutting.
- Next, use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. A regular tablespoon works fine, but a melon baller can make this step easier and more precise.
- Leave about a 1/4-inch shell for structure. This will help contain your filling nicely.
With practice, you’ll get quicker at this step. Plus, the scooped-out flesh is great to mix into your chicken filling!
Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce (no sugar added)
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Cooking Essentials:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s a quick, easy, and enjoyable meal that fits perfectly into a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure it’s ready to go once your zucchini boats are assembled!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Cut your zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Save the scooped-out flesh by chopping it up for later!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add in the ground chicken and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Add Zucchini and Seasonings:
Next, stir in the chopped zucchini flesh, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes until everything is softened and combined well.
5. Combine with Marinara:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of marinara sauce. Mix it all together until well combined.
6. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
Place your zucchini shells on a baking sheet. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat. Be generous with the filling!
7. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over each stuffed zucchini. Then, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese—go ahead and make it cheesy!
8. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and golden brown while the zucchini is tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a minute. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, then serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats! They’re packed with flavor and make a wonderful low-carb meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, lean beef, or even cooked shredded rotisserie chicken. Just ensure that any substitute is cooked through before adding it to the zucchini boats.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, swap the ground chicken for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and cooked quinoa or lentils. You can still use the marinara sauce and cheese for a tasty, meat-free meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
Can I Prep These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the zucchini boats in advance without baking them. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just pop them in the oven as instructed. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge!
