Description
Craving something satisfying yet healthy for dinner? These Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a must-try! They combine juicy ground chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese all nestled into tender zucchini halves. Perfect for a low-carb dinner, a healthy comfort meal, or even a quick family-friendly weeknight recipe, these zucchini boats are loaded with protein and flavor. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, meal prep inspiration, or just a new way to enjoy veggies, this easy recipe is one to save!
Ingredients
4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
1 egg, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil for cooking and brushing
Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the centers, leaving 1/4-inch thick shells. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place in baking dish cut-side up.
2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
3. Add ground chicken, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until browned and done. Stir in 3/4 cup marinara sauce and let simmer for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Once slightly cooled, mix chicken with beaten egg, breadcrumbs (if using), and half the Parmesan.
5. Spoon the filling into each zucchini half. Drizzle more marinara sauce on top of each.
6. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let cool 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve.
Notes
Choose zucchinis of similar size to ensure even baking.
Use thick marinara sauce to prevent sogginess.
Let zucchini boats rest 5 minutes after baking to help set the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini half
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg