These Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a fun and healthy twist on pizza night! Juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty sauce all packed into tender zucchini.
I love how these boats are not only low-carb but also super easy to make. Plus, they look fancy enough to impress, even if you ate half of them before serving! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star of this dish, acting as the boat for the filling. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash. Just look for a similar shape to hold the filling.
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps it light, but ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken works as a substitute. Choose what you prefer or have on hand. Just remember that shredded chicken cooks faster!
Marinara Sauce: Opt for sugar-free marinara to keep it keto-friendly. If you’re out of marinara, you can use a simple tomato sauce mixed with garlic and herbs for a quick alternative.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that melty goodness, while Parmesan adds a nice flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use vegan cheese alternatives.
How Do I Scoop Zucchini Without Ruining It?
Scooping out zucchini can be a bit tricky! Here’s how to do it without damaging the shell:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then gently score around the edges about ¼ inch from the skin.
- Take a spoon and gently scrape out the flesh, taking care not to poke through the skin.
- Rotate and scoop as you go to keep it even, and save the scooped flesh for the filling!
With a little practice, you’ll master this step in no time! Enjoy your cooking adventure with these healthy zucchini boats!
Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Boats:
- 4 medium zucchini
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free, no added sugars)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s hot enough to perfectly cook your zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the center flesh with a spoon, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell. Make sure to save that scooped-out flesh for later!
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the zucchini is softened.
5. Combine with Marinara:
Stir in half of the marinara sauce, mixing it well into the chicken and zucchini blend. Once mixed, remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Place the zucchini boats on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.
7. Add Toppings:
Top each filled boat with the remaining marinara sauce, and generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender and the cheese to be melted and golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, low-carb chicken parmesan zucchini boats!
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and adjust to your taste! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using cooked chicken!
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! You can use a simple tomato sauce mixed with garlic, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt for a quick substitute. Just ensure it’s low-sugar if you’re keeping it keto-friendly!
Can I Prepare These Boats in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the zucchini boats a day ahead. Just cover them tightly and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. They’ll need a few extra minutes in the oven if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them gently.
