These Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats are a tasty treat! They have juicy chicken mixed with garlic and a hint of sweetness, all nestled in tender zucchini halves.
They’re like little boats of flavor—great for lunch or dinner. I love making them when I want something healthy that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, they’re fun to eat! 🥒🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the stars of the show! Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis. If you can’t find them, eggplants or bell peppers can be good alternatives.
Ground Chicken: This is used for its mild flavor and texture. You can substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based ground option if you want a vegetarian dish.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a salty depth to the dish. If you need gluten-free, tamari is a great swap. For a low-sodium option, choose low-sodium soy sauce.
Honey: Honey gives a nice touch of sweetness. If you’re vegan, use maple syrup or agave syrup instead.
Ginger: Fresh ginger has a vibrant flavor, but ground ginger works too. You could skip it if you’re not a fan, but it does add warmth!
How Do You Make Zucchini Boats Without Making Them Soggy?
To avoid sogginess, it’s important to pre-bake the zucchini boats slightly before filling them. Also, mix in the finely chopped zucchini flesh with the chicken mixture to keep moisture from building up.
- After scooping out the insides, sprinkle a little salt inside the zucchini boats and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out some moisture.
- Pre-bake the empty boats for 5-7 minutes. This helps them soften slightly before adding the filling.
- Ensure the filling isn’t too wet—balance is key!
Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Zucchinis:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and flesh from the center, leaving about a 1/4 inch thickness around the edges. Set the scooped flesh aside to use in the filling later.
2. Cook the Chicken Filling:
In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken to the skillet, using a spatula to break it up. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine Flavors:
Stir in the reserved zucchini flesh (chopped finely), soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well mixed and heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in half of the chopped green onions.
4. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased, arrange the zucchini boats. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, packing it lightly.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the zucchini boats in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
6. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats! They’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the meat is fully cooked.
How Do I Keep the Zucchini Boats From Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, salt the scooped-out zucchini shells lightly and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out some moisture. You can also bake the empty boats for a few minutes before filling them for extra firmness!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Stuff the zucchini boats right before baking to ensure they remain fresh and don’t become soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through or microwave them for a quick option.
