These Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on a classic dish! Filled with juicy chicken, melty cheese, and zesty marinara, they pack tons of flavor.
And honestly, who wouldn’t want to eat their dinner out of a boat? It’s like being a pirate but way tastier! đ´ââ ď¸ I love how easy they are to whip up for a weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the show! Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best boats. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash as a great alternative.
Ground Chicken: This keeps the dish light. You can swap it for ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a bit more flavor. If you need a meatless option, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Marinara Sauce: A low-sugar version is key to keep it keto-friendly. Donât have marinara? You can use a homemade tomato sauce or even pesto for a fresh twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives that gooey texture, but feel free to add provolone or a mix of cheeses for variation. Use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do You Prepare Zucchini Boats Easily?
Creating the zucchini “boats” is simple but requires a bit of technique. The goal is to scoop out the insides without breaking the skin. Here’s how to do it:
- Firmly slice the zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Using a small spoon or melon baller, gently scoop out the flesh, leaving about Âź inch of zucchini on the outer edge. This keeps them sturdy.
- Be careful not to pierce the bottom, as you want them to hold that delicious filling!
This preparation lets you create the perfect vessel for your tasty chicken filling while ensuring they cook evenly.
Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low sugar, keto-friendly)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes preparing and cooking before enjoying these tasty zucchini boats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when youâre ready to bake those zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis well and then slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the insides to create âboats,â leaving about Âź inch thick walls. Donât toss the scooped flesh just yet; set it aside for later!
3. Season the Boats:
Lightly brush the insides of the zucchini boats with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each one. Place them in a baking dish, ready for their filling!
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once warm, toss in the minced garlic and sautĂŠ for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, which will take about 6-8 minutes.
5. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Chop the reserved zucchini flesh and stir it into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to soften the mixture a bit more.
6. Season the Filling:
Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with a little salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
7. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Carefully spoon the chicken and sauce mixture evenly into each hollowed zucchini boat until theyâre packed full of deliciousness.
8. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the stuffed zucchinis with grated Parmesan cheese, then top generously with shredded mozzarella for that incredible melty finish!
9. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Youâll know theyâre ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden brown.
10. Cool & Garnish:
After baking, remove the zucchinis from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and freshness.
11. Serve & Enjoy:
Dig in while theyâre hot and enjoy your delicious Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats as a filling, low-carb dinner option!
This dish is a fantastic way to savor all the flavors of chicken parmesan while keeping it light and keto-friendly. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a flavorful twist. For a vegetarian option, try using a meat substitute, like Beyond Meat or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
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. You might want to cover with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the filling and scoop out the zucchinis in advance. Just assemble and bake them when youâre ready to eat. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
What Can I Serve with Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats are a complete meal on their own, but you can pair them with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for extra crunch and nutrients!
