These Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on dinner! Tender zucchini is filled with a tasty mix of chicken, garlic, and a hint of honey, all topped with sesame seeds!
What’s great is how colorful and healthy they look on the plate. Plus, they taste amazing! Every bite makes me smile, and who doesn’t love a meal that doubles as a cool boat? 🚤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe, as they hold up well while baking. If you can’t find zucchinis, consider using yellow squash or even bell peppers as alternatives!
Ground Chicken: This adds great protein to the dish. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly if using meat.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic gives a punch of flavor while ginger adds warmth. If you’re out of fresh ginger, dried ginger can work too—just use less, as it’s stronger!
Honey: This sweetens the filling. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option, or to make it sugar-free, use a sugar alternative like agave.
Soy Sauce: It boosts the umami flavor. Tamari is a good gluten-free choice, or coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
How Do I Properly Prepare Zucchini Boats?
Preparing the zucchini boats is simple, but the technique is key for a successful dish. Follow these steps to get your zucchini ready:
- Start by washing the zucchinis to remove any dirt.
- Slice them in half lengthwise using a sharp knife—this will make two long halves.
- Carefully scoop out the center flesh using a small spoon, creating a “boat.” Leave about 1/4-inch walls so they can hold the filling.
- Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh! Chop it up and add it to your chicken mixture for added texture and nutrition.
This method gives you the perfect canvas to hold the yummy chicken filling while ensuring the zucchini cooks evenly. Enjoy the fun of creating these colorful boats!
Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For The Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
Total Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for cooking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes for a delicious dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s ready when you finish preparing your zucchini boats.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis under cold water to clean them. Then, slice them in half lengthwise to create two halves. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the center flesh to make your “boats.” Make sure to leave about a 1/4-inch thick wall so they can hold the filling. Don’t throw away the scooped-out flesh; you’ll use it later!
3. Cook the Garlic and Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken. Cook this while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully cooked and starts to brown – this will take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Add Zucchini Flesh & Seasonings:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Now, stir in the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat). Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for another 2 minutes so all the flavors combine well. Remove from heat.
5. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Take the hollowed zucchini boats and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each boat, packing it snugly.
6. Bake and Finish:
Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top of each filled zucchini boat. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is slightly browned on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the zucchini boats from the oven and garnish with freshly sliced green onions. Serve these delicious boats warm and enjoy a delightful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While ground chicken is the main ingredient, you can also use ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for shredded chicken.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground chicken with a mix of cooked quinoa, beans, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. Just ensure that any plant-based ingredients are properly seasoned!
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats pair well with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You can also serve them over rice or quinoa for added heartiness!
