High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are a delightful and nutritious dinner option. Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners, they combine the spicy kick of buffalo flavor with the freshness of zucchini. With a creamy filling made from cottage cheese and shredded chicken, these boats are not only filling but also low in carbs. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, making them ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: Each serving delivers a satisfying 20 grams of protein, perfect for muscle maintenance and recovery.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy a flavorful meal without the extra carbs, making it great for those watching their intake.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed zucchini boats store well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping.
• Flavorful and Zesty: The combination of Frank’s RedHot sauce and spices ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking and easy cleanup when roasting your zucchini boats.
• Blender or food processor: Helps create a smooth cottage cheese mixture that blends perfectly with the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all your ingredients before filling the zucchini.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Boats

• 4 medium zucchini (approx. 795 grams)
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (230 grams)

For the Filling

• 1 cup 1% cottage cheese (264 grams)
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (127 mL)
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup light feta cheese (57 grams)

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the zucchini properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

• Slice zucchini in half lengthwise.
• Scoop out the center with a spoon to form boats, leaving enough flesh to hold up during baking.

Step 3: Blend Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth. This will help it mix better with other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* Shredded chicken,
* Blended cottage cheese,
* Frank’s RedHot sauce,
* Garlic powder,
* Onion powder,
* Paprika,
* Dried parsley,
* Black pepper,
* Salt.

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Fill Zucchini Boats

Place zucchini boats on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Fill each boat generously with the buffalo chicken mixture.

Step 6: Bake First Time

Bake the filled zucchini boats for about 20 minutes. This helps soften them while allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Add Feta and Bake Again

After 20 minutes, sprinkle light feta cheese on top of each boat. Bake for another 10 minutes until the zucchini is tender but not mushy.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven. You may garnish with chopped parsley or drizzle some light ranch if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats!

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are not only delicious but versatile. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Dinner

• Serve with a side salad – A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the heat of the buffalo chicken.
• Pair with whole grain rice – Adding a serving of brown rice or quinoa can make it a heartier meal.

Meal Prep Option

• Pack for lunch – These stuffed zucchini boats are perfect for meal prep. Just store them in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Reheat easily – Simply pop them in the microwave for a quick meal at work or home.

Entertaining Guests

• Garnish creatively – Top with chopped green onions or cilantro for an attractive presentation when serving guests.
• Offer dipping sauces – Provide light ranch or yogurt-based dressings on the side for added flavor.

How to Perfect High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

To achieve the best version of these stuffed zucchini boats, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken and vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your dish tastier.
• Don’t overcook zucchini – Bake just until tender; this keeps them firm and prevents sogginess.
• Adjust spice levels – Customize the heat by varying the amount of Frank’s RedHot sauce based on your preference.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding sliced jalapeños or different cheeses to switch up the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Complement your high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats with these tasty side dishes that elevate your meal.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad featuring arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil adds freshness.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices provides a nutritious and filling side.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Crispy roasted sweet potato wedges bring sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy flavors.
4. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a comforting addition to the meal.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli drizzled with lemon juice adds color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your cooking game. Here are some mistakes to watch out for when making High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the filling properly can leave your stuffed zucchini bland. Make sure to mix in all the spices thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking or undercooking the zucchini: Cooking zucchini too long can make it mushy, while not cooking it enough can leave it tough. Aim for tender, but firm boats after 30 minutes in the oven.
• Using dry chicken: If you use leftover chicken that is overly dry, it will affect the texture of your filling. Opt for freshly cooked chicken or add a bit more cottage cheese to keep it moist.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Stuffing your zucchini boats too full can lead to messy results. Fill them generously but don’t overdo it; they should be filled but not overflowing.
• Not blending the cottage cheese: Failing to blend the cottage cheese can result in lumps in your filling. Make sure it’s smooth for a creamy texture that binds everything together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• You can freeze cooked zucchini boats for up to 2 months.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a bit of water and cover, heating over medium heat until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats.

What makes these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats healthy?

These stuffed zucchini boats are low in carbs and high in protein due to the chicken and cottage cheese, making them a nutritious meal option.

Can I customize the filling for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats?

Absolutely! You can add different spices, vegetables, or even swap out chicken for turkey or beef based on your preference.

How do I ensure my zucchini boats don’t get soggy?

Make sure not to overcook the zucchini and drain any excess moisture from the filling before stuffing.

Are High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These boats are perfect for meal prep as they store well and reheat easily. Just prepare a batch ahead of time!

Final Thoughts

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are not just delicious; they offer a healthy twist on classic flavors. With their versatility, you can easily customize them according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy and flavorful it is!

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High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious and nutritious dinner option that perfectly blends the zesty flavors of buffalo chicken with the lightness of zucchini. These stuffed boats are packed with protein and low in carbs, making them ideal for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. The creamy filling combines shredded chicken with cottage cheese and a kick of Frank’s RedHot sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these zucchini boats are sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup 1% cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup light feta cheese (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create boats.
3. Blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt.
5. Fill each zucchini boat with the buffalo chicken mixture.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Sprinkle light feta cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until tender.
8. Garnish as desired and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed zucchini boat (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg