High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

There is nothing quite like the bold, tangy kick combined with a wholesome boost of protein that makes these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats an absolute game-changer for dinner. Imagine tender zucchini filled with a creamy, spicy chicken mixture, baked to perfection and topped with a sprinkle of feta for that punch of savory goodness. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that perfectly balances nutrition and flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful treat you’ll be excited to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but essential to crafting a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—from the crisp zucchini providing a fresh base, to the cottage cheese that adds creaminess and protein, all the way to the Frank’s RedHot Sauce that brings that signature buffalo heat.

• Medium Zucchini (4): Choose firm zucchinis around 6-7 inches long to create perfectly sized boats that hold the filling well.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken (1 cup): This provides the hearty, high-protein element that makes the dish satisfying and nutritious.
• 1% Cottage Cheese (1 cup): Blend it until smooth to add creamy texture and extra protein without heaviness.
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce (1/2 cup): The secret to that iconic buffalo flavor that everyone loves.
• Garlic Powder (3/4 tsp): Adds a subtle depth and warmth to the filling.
• Onion Powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances savory notes without being overpowering.
• Paprika (1/2 tsp): Offers a gentle smoky hint that complements the buffalo spice perfectly.
• Dried Parsley (1/2 tsp): Brightens the flavors and adds a bit of herbal freshness.
• Black Pepper (1/8 tsp): Just enough to add a subtle hint of spice.
• Salt (1/8 tsp): Enhances all the flavors for a balanced taste.
• Light Feta Cheese (1/4 cup): Crumbled on top for that tangy, creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the spicy filling.

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini Boats

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While it warms up, slice your zucchini in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the soft inner flesh using a spoon to create “boats.” This hollowed vegetable not only provides a perfect vessel for the filling but also cooks to a tender consistency while holding its shape beautifully during baking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Cottage Cheese Base

The key to that luscious and rich filling lies in the blended cottage cheese. Toss the 1% cottage cheese into a blender or food processor and pulse until completely smooth. This step elevates the texture from chunky to velvety, helping the filling stay creamy without needing heavy cream or cheese blends. It’s a sneaky way to boost protein while keeping the mixture light.

Step 3: Mix the Buffalo Chicken Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, smooth cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and all the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything really well so every bite bursts with that classic buffalo flavor intertwined with aromatic spices. This mixture is the heart and soul of your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Place your prepared zucchini boats on a parchment-lined sheet pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Spoon generous amounts of the buffalo chicken filling into each zucchini boat, filling them up but leaving enough room for the feta topping. Bake the stuffed zucchinis for 20 minutes until the filling is heated through and the zucchini begins to soften.

Step 5: Add Feta and Finish Baking

After the initial bake, sprinkle crumbled light feta cheese over the top of each zucchini boat. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step melts the feta slightly, adding a tangy richness that balances the spicy filling, while also ensuring the zucchini is tender but not mushy—a wonderful textural harmony.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, feel free to add a little fresh chopped parsley or drizzle light ranch dressing for an extra flavor boost and visual appeal. Serve these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats warm, and watch everyone dive in eagerly!

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped scallions adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the creamy, spicy filling. A drizzle of light ranch or blue cheese dressing can also enhance the traditional buffalo chicken vibe while adding a cool contrast to the heat.

Side Dishes

These zucchini boats shine as a satisfying main dish, but pairing them with complementary sides elevates the meal. Consider a crisp green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a cooling cucumber yogurt dip. These sides complement the spicy filling without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats on a large platter surrounded by crunchy celery sticks and carrot batons, turning it into a party-friendly appetizer or finger food buffet option. You could also cut the boats into smaller “bites” for easy entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well and make for a quick, protein-packed lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

While fresh zucchini boats are best enjoyed immediately due to the vegetable’s water content, you can freeze the cooked buffalo chicken filling separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat the filling before stuffing freshly prepared zucchini.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to keep the zucchini from becoming too soggy—microwaving is quick but can cause excess moisture. Adding a fresh sprinkle of feta after reheating revives the dish beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While light feta is recommended for its tangy creaminess, goat cheese or shredded mozzarella can be excellent swaps depending on your flavor preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble fresh zucchini boats when ready to bake, ensuring maximum freshness and texture.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely. Adjust the amount of Frank’s RedHot sauce or add some cayenne pepper to the filling for that extra fiery kick. Just balance it with a little more cottage cheese or feta if it gets too intense.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?

No worries. You can quickly poach, roast, or even use rotisserie chicken. Just shred it finely before combining with other ingredients.

Are these zucchini boats gluten-free?

Yes! This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats combine zesty buffalo heat with comforting creaminess and fresh vegetable goodness, making them a dinner winner any day of the week. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe collection. So grab your zucchini and chicken, and get ready for a deliciously healthy delight that’s sure to become a favorite!

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