Easy Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe
Buffalo chicken zucchini boats bring together bold flavor and smart nutrition in one satisfying meal. With tender zucchini halves filled with spicy shredded chicken and a cheesy topping, this dish feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you are trying to reduce carbs, eat more vegetables, or just want something different for dinner, these boats deliver big flavor in a healthy way.
Zucchini is the perfect base. It holds the filling well and becomes soft but not mushy when baked. Pair it with buffalo sauce and chicken, and you have a combination that hits every craving — spicy, savory, cheesy, and comforting all at once. These boats also come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead of time.
Using cooked or rotisserie chicken speeds up the prep, while the oven takes care of the rest. You can make the filling spicy or mild depending on your taste, and the recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a crowd. They are great for lunch, dinner, or even as a game-day snack that fits into a balanced eating plan.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a complete list of what you will need along with estimated calories per ingredient.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Zucchini (medium size) | 4 | 130 |
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups | 330 |
| Buffalo hot sauce | 1/3 cup | 30 |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 4 ounces | 400 |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup | 440 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 5 |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon | 5 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 |
| Fresh parsley or green onions | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
Estimated Total Calories (entire batch): ~1342
(Makes 8 zucchini boats / 4 servings)
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, wash and dry the zucchinis. Slice each one lengthwise to create two halves. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the center flesh, leaving a half-inch border to form the “boat.” Set the scooped flesh aside or save it for another dish like soup or stir fry.
Arrange the zucchini boats cut-side up on a large baking dish. Lightly sprinkle each with a pinch of salt and pepper. This gives the vegetable itself more flavor and helps draw out moisture as it cooks.
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Taste the filling and adjust the heat level by adding more or less sauce, depending on your spice preference.
Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat. Press the filling down lightly to help it hold its shape. Once all boats are filled, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. The zucchini should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
Read more: Healthy Vegetarian Chili Recipe
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can use any type of cooked chicken in this recipe — grilled, roasted, or even leftovers from a previous meal. Rotisserie chicken makes the prep especially fast and flavorful.
To cut calories further, use light cream cheese or reduced-fat cheddar. Greek yogurt can also replace cream cheese if you prefer a tangy and lighter filling. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese.
Add diced celery or carrots to the filling for more crunch and volume. You can also top the boats with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing just before serving for extra flavor.
If you like things extra spicy, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (2 boats per person) contains approximately:
- Calories: 335
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
This meal is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a great option for keto, low-carb, or high-protein diets. It also provides a good amount of fiber and flavor without excess calories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve buffalo chicken zucchini boats with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a light ranch dressing. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also pair nicely and help round out the meal with extra nutrients.
These boats also make a great appetizer or party snack when cut in half or served on a tray. If you’re prepping meals ahead of time, store them in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat. They keep well in the fridge for up to three days.
To make the meal even more filling, serve the boats with a side of brown rice, quinoa, or garlic roasted potatoes.
Read more: Easy Homemade Beef Chili Recipe
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken zucchini boats are a perfect blend of spicy comfort and healthy eating. They bring together bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and creamy textures in a way that feels satisfying without being too heavy. Whether you are cooking for one, feeding the family, or looking for a new way to enjoy buffalo chicken, this recipe delivers every time.
Easy to prep, quick to bake, and customizable to your liking, these zucchini boats are sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. They pack flavor and nutrition into every bite and leave you feeling full and happy long after the plate is clean.