These Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on a classic dish! They feature zucchini filled with tasty chicken, cheese, and flavorful sauce, perfect for a low-carb meal!
Who wouldn’t love a dish that’s both cheesy and veggie-packed? I like to top mine with extra cheese as it melts beautifully. It’s a guilt-free delight that’s quick to whip up any night! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Choose firm zucchinis for better structure. If zucchini isn’t available, eggplant can be a great alternative that holds up well.
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you’re vegetarian, canned chickpeas or grilled mushrooms can be a delicious substitute.
Marinara Sauce: Look for sugar-free varieties for a keto-friendly option. If you want to make your own, blend canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs—easy and fresh! You can also use pesto for a fun twist.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its meltiness while Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nut-based cheese for topping!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Boats Don’t Get Soggy?
A common concern! To keep your zucchini boats firm, start by salting them. Sprinkle salt inside the hollowed zucchinis and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry before filling.
- Also, avoid overcooking the zucchini in the oven. The initial 20 minutes should be enough before adding cheese.
- Consider roasting the zucchini halves at 375°F for a few minutes before adding the filling to give them a jumpstart.
Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For The Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free/keto-friendly)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Cheese Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes in the oven. So, you’re looking at around 45 minutes total, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to cook those yummy zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Next, wash your zucchinis well. Cut them in half lengthwise, and using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and a bit of the flesh to create a hollow “boat.” Try to leave at least ½ inch of zucchini on the skin to hold the filling. Set the flesh aside for later.
3. Sauté the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped zucchini flesh you just scooped out. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. This gives your filling a great flavor!
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed zucchini flesh, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well until the mixture is nicely combined.
5. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
Place your zucchini boats cut side up in a baking dish. Carefully spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each boat, packing it slightly if needed.
6. Add the Cheese:
Now for the best part! Top each zucchini boat with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. You want those boats to be cheesy and delightful!
7. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the zucchini to cook.
8. Final Cheese Layer:
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of each zucchini boat. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Let your zucchini boats cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’d like, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor!
This cheesy, low-carb dish is sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of your Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats!
FAQ for Cheesy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, try canned chickpeas or cooked lentils. If you prefer another meat, ground turkey or even shrimp would work wonderfully as well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can use dairy-free cheese alternatives for both mozzarella and Parmesan. Look for products made from nuts or soy that melt well. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover them with foil to keep them moist.
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the zucchini boats and filling a day in advance. Just assemble them and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save you time on a busy weeknight!
