Name: Delicious High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Zucchini (Choose medium-sized for best texture.); 2 cups Shredded Chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.); 1 cup Cottage Cheese (Can substitute with Greek yogurt.); 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot Sauce (Adjust based on heat preference.); Spices (onion powder, garlic powder, etc.) (Customize with your favorite spices.); 1/2 cup Light Feta Cheese (Can replace with regular feta or omit.)

Did you know that stuffing vegetables can turn a humble dinner into a culinary adventure? That’s exactly what I discovered with these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. They not only deliver a hearty meal packed with flavor but also offer a low-carb twist that keeps your health goals in check. With creamy cottage cheese mingling with zesty shredded chicken and that iconic kick from Frank’s RedHot sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to whip up in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or hosting family and friends, these customizable zucchini boats are sure to impress. Ready to elevate your dinner routine with a fun and delicious recipe? Let’s dive into the details!

Why are Zucchini Boats a Must-Try?

Flavorful Adventure: Each bite of these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats is bursting with zesty goodness from the creamy cottage cheese and spicy Frank’s RedHot sauce.

Quick and Easy: In under 40 minutes, you can create a stunning meal that fits perfectly into your busy schedule.

High-Protein Delight: Packed with shredded chicken and cottage cheese, this dish ensures you stay full and satisfied without the extra carbs.

Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Perfect for anyone, from busy parents to meal-prepping enthusiasts!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these zucchini boats are sure to be a hit. Looking for something to serve alongside? Consider an easy salad or try out some delicious Mascarpone Stuffed Dates for dessert to round out the meal!

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Ingredients
• Dive into the world of flavor with these delightful components!

For the Zucchini Boats

Zucchini – The main vessel for all that delicious filling; choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture.
Shredded Chicken – Packed with protein, use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.

For the Filling

Cottage Cheese – This creamy addition boosts the protein content; swap it for Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter choice.
Frank’s RedHot Sauce – This iconic sauce adds a spicy punch; adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance.
Spices (onion powder, garlic powder, etc.) – Elevate the flavor; feel free to customize with your favorite spices for a unique twist.

For Topping

Light Feta Cheese – Adds a creamy, salty touch; replace with regular feta or skip for a dairy-free version.

Embrace the satisfying experience of these High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats and let your taste buds enjoy every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure that the zucchini cooks evenly while allowing the filling to become deliciously warm and melded. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Cottage Cheese
In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, which will serve as the base for your filling. This step should take about 1-2 minutes. You want a velvety texture that will mix perfectly with the shredded chicken and create a delicious filling for your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats.

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and desired spices. Stir the mixture well until everything is evenly incorporated and coats the chicken beautifully. This flavorful mixture will pack a punch, providing all the creamy, spicy goodness you expect in stuffed zucchini boats.

Step 4: Prepare the Zucchini
Take your medium-sized zucchinis and slice each one in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the center flesh to create “boats,” leaving a sturdy zucchini shell for filling. After scooping, ensure your zucchinis are clean and ready to be generously filled with your buffalo chicken mixture.

Step 5: Fill the Zucchini Boats
Place the hollowed zucchinis on a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any drips while baking. Spoon the buffalo chicken filling generously into each zucchini half, pressing down slightly to ensure it’s packed well. This hearty filling will help keep the flavors contained as they bake to perfection in the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Zucchini
Transfer the baking sheet with the stuffed zucchini boats to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften while enhancing the flavors of the buffalo chicken filling. Keep an eye on them, as you want the zucchini to be tender but not mushy.

Step 7: Add Feta Cheese
After the initial baking time, remove the zucchini boats from the oven and sprinkle the light feta cheese evenly over the top. Return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become slightly bubbly. This creates a savory layer that complements the spicy filling beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the zucchini boats are thoroughly baked and the cheese is golden, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and an optional drizzle of light ranch dressing if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious flavor-packed meal of High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats with family and friends!

Expert Tips for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Avoid Overcooking: Bake zucchini until just tender; overcooking can lead to mushy boats that lose their delightful texture. Aim for a slight bite!
Meal Prep Magic: Prepare your buffalo chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes for a quick assembly on busy nights.
Customize Away: Feel free to experiment! Add bell peppers or spices to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. Each variation keeps the recipe fresh and exciting.
Rethink the Cheese: If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese. It maintains creaminess while still packing a protein punch.
Serving Sizes Matter: Each zucchini boat is a satisfying portion. Consider cutting the boats in half for an appetizer or serving as part of a larger spread!

How to Store and Freeze High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal that’s just as delicious!
Freezer: These zucchini boats freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
Assemble Fresh: If possible, freeze uncooked stuffed zucchini to maintain freshness and flavor. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats whenever you crave them!

What to Serve with High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Fresh ingredients and delightful textures can elevate your meal experience. Pair these stuffed zucchini boats with delicious sides and drinks to create a well-rounded dinner.

Crispy Side Salad: A light, crunchy salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness that balances the rich flavors of the zucchini boats. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette for a perfect pairing.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks offer a delightful contrast with the spicy and creamy filling. They are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate!
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side offers a mildly earthy flavor that complements the spicy profile of the zucchini boats. Lightly seasoned, it adds nutrition and bright color to the meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft texture pair beautifully with the zesty goodness of the high protein filling. Roasted to golden perfection, they provide a hearty component to the dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing balances the heat of the stuffed zucchini boats, creating an enjoyable contrast for your taste buds.
Chilled Wine Spritzer: A refreshing wine spritzer adds a bubbly and crisp element to the table, enhancing the flavors of the meal while keeping things light and fun.

Embrace these delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience with the High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats!

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt these delightful zucchini boats to fit your taste buds!

Turkey Substitute: Swap out shredded chicken for diced turkey for a rich flavor alternative. It’s a perfect way to use leftover holiday meat!
Greek Yogurt Upgrade: Replace cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy twist. This adds a delightful lightness while enhancing the protein content.
Veggie Boost: Stir in some diced bell peppers or onions into the filling. They add a crunchy texture and extra nutrients, elevating your meal to new heights.
Dairy-Free Delight: Omit the feta cheese and replace cottage cheese with cashew cream for a dairy-free option. This maintains creaminess and adds a nutty flavor profile.
Spice It Up: For a fiery kick, mix jalapeños or cayenne pepper into the chicken mixture. Your taste buds will thank you for this extra zesty layer!
Cheesy Variations: Try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese instead of feta for a gooey, melty topping. Each bite will be irresistibly cheesy!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or chives into the filling for added freshness. It brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor!

These variations will not only keep your meals exciting but will also allow you to explore flavors you might not have considered before. Enjoy customizing your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats! For a tasty side option, consider pairing your creation with Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich for a satisfying full meal!

Make Ahead Options

These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the flavorful filling up to 3 days in advance by mixing the blended cottage cheese, shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and spices in an airtight container; just refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can hollow out the zucchinis up to 24 hours prior to baking, storing them in the fridge to prevent browning. When you’re set to enjoy your meal, simply fill the zucchinis with the prepped filling, bake as instructed for 20 minutes, add the feta, and cook for another 10 minutes. This way, you have a delicious, stress-free dinner ready to impress in no time!

High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best zucchini for making boats?
Absolutely! When selecting zucchinis, opt for medium-sized ones that feel firm and are free of dark spots or blemishes. The ideal zucchini will have a smooth skin and a bright green color, ensuring that they hold up well when you scoop them out and stuff them with the delicious filling.

What is the best way to store leftovers of High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats?
Very easy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing them in. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave for a quick, satisfying meal!

Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini boats? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do so, wrap each stuffed zucchini boat individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the original cooking time to ensure they heat thoroughly.

What if my filling is too watery?
Great question! If your mixture ends up too watery, consider draining excess liquid from the shredded chicken or reducing the amount of cottage cheese slightly. You can also add a bit of breadcrumbs or finely chopped vegetables to absorb moisture and thicken the filling. This will ensure your buffalo chicken filling remains flavorful and well-contoured in the zucchini.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Absolutely! These High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fantastic low-carb option, thanks to the zucchini serving as the “boat” instead of traditional pasta or bread. Plus, with high-protein ingredients like shredded chicken and cottage cheese, you’re sure to feel full and satisfied while keeping your carb intake in check.