High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and easy to make, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats have become a staple in my home. They’re bursting with flavor and packed with protein, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love the spicy kick of buffalo chicken?

This recipe is special because it combines wholesome ingredients into a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up something quick after a long day, these zucchini boats are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can have a flavorful dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the taste of buffalo chicken! These stuffed zucchini boats are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with high protein ingredients, this dish keeps you full without weighing you down.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the zucchini right before baking for an effortless dinner.
• Low Carb Goodness: Ideal for those looking to reduce carbs while still enjoying a hearty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have some of these staples in your kitchen!

• 4 medium zucchini (approx. 795 grams)
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (230 grams)
• 1 cup 1% cottage cheese (264 grams)
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (127 mL)
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup light feta cheese (57 grams)

Variations

The beauty of these stuffed zucchini boats is their flexibility! You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra flavor boost.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or spinach into the filling for added nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, sprinkle some mozzarella or goat cheese on top instead!

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your zucchini cooks evenly and becomes tender as it bakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center using a spoon. Creating these little “boats” makes room for all that delicious buffalo chicken filling!

Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese

Using a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until it’s smooth. This creamy base adds richness to our filling and balances out the spiciness of the hot sauce.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until everything is fully mixed – this is where all those amazing flavors come together!

Step 5: Fill Your Zucchini Boats

Place your prepared zucchini halves on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Now it’s time to fill each boat with that tasty buffalo chicken mixture! Don’t be shy; pile it high!

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Pop those stuffed zucchini boats into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This allows them to soften while developing wonderful flavors.

Step 7: Add Feta Cheese

After the initial baking time, sprinkle light feta cheese over each boat and return them to the oven for another 10 minutes. The feta will melt slightly but still hold its shape—perfectly delicious.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Feel free to garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of light ranch if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every spicy bite!

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats! They’re not just good; they’re great—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare if you keep a few tips in mind!

• Choose the right zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis, as they hold their shape better when baked and provide the perfect vessel for stuffing.
• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken on hand, it can save you time and add even more flavor to your filling.
• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Frank’s RedHot sauce and gradually add more to suit your taste. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish at their preferred spice level.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to swap the light feta with other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile that still keeps it low in fat.
• Make ahead for meal prep: These stuffed zucchini boats store well in the fridge for up to three days. Prepping them in advance makes weeknight dinners easy and stress-free!

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Presentation is key when serving these vibrant zucchini boats! Their colorful filling and crispy tops make them visually appealing, and there are several ways to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this herb adds freshness and color, making your dish look even more inviting.
• Drizzle of light ranch dressing: This creamy addition complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken while adding a cooling effect.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions gives a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor that balances the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Cauliflower rice: This low-carb option provides a great base for soaking up any extra sauce from the zucchini boats while keeping things light.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of buffalo chicken, creating a satisfying contrast.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, making it a perfect accompaniment.
• Steamed broccoli: This nutritious side brings crunch and color to your plate while being an excellent source of vitamins.

Enjoy these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats as part of a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store your leftovers and ensure they stay fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed zucchini boats to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the stuffed zucchini boats, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Prepare the zucchini boats as instructed and fill them with the buffalo chicken mixture.
• Wrap each boat tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated zucchini boats, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen zucchini boats, remove from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Then follow the above reheating instructions.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual boats on high for 2-3 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have regarding this recipe!

Can I make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils, and use dairy-free cottage cheese for a vegan option.

How can I spice up my High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats?

Feel free to add chopped jalapeños or extra hot sauce to your buffalo chicken mixture if you love extra heat. You can also experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes! If feta isn’t your favorite, try using other cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese, which will also melt nicely over the top.

How do I know when my zucchini boats are done cooking?

The zucchini should be tender yet firm. If it becomes too mushy, it may lose its structure when serving. Keep an eye on them around the 20-minute mark!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats as much as I do! They’re not only flavorful but also healthy and filling—perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re prepping for busy days ahead or simply looking for a new family favorite, these boats hit all the right notes. Happy cooking, and enjoy every spicy bite!