These Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty meal! They feature juicy chicken flavored with garlic and honey, all stuffed inside fresh zucchini. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a delicious “boat” full of goodness? I love serving these with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. It makes them look fancy, but they’re super easy to make!
Preparing these boats is a breeze. Just cook the chicken, mix in the flavors, and fill up the zucchini. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner that will impress everyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This recipe relies on zucchini as the “boats.” If you cannot find them, try using bell peppers or eggplant as alternatives. They also hold stuffing well and bring a unique flavor!
Ground Chicken: While I love using ground chicken for its light flavor, you can substitute it with turkey or even beef if you prefer. If you want a vegetarian option, use cooked lentils or crumbled tofu as a filling.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nice nutty flavor. If you’re out, try using olive oil or canola oil, but note that these won’t give you the same richness. A splash of peanut oil can also work well!
Honey: For a healthier option, maple syrup or agave syrup can be swapped in. If you want it to be sugar-free, consider using a sugar alternative that measures like honey.
Green Onions: These add freshness, but feel free to swap with chives or diced regular onion if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Perfectly Scoop Out Zucchini for Boats?
Scooping out zucchini to create boats can be tricky, but with a little practice, you’ll get it right! Just follow these simple steps:
- Start by cutting the zucchini in half lengthwise, which gives you two equal halves to work with.
- Use a spoon with a rounded edge to gently scoop out the seeds and flesh. Aim to leave about 1/4-inch of the edge so the boat holds its shape.
- Be careful not to scoop too deep; you want enough of the zucchini flesh for flavor without breaking through the bottom.
With practice, you’ll find the right balance and create perfect edible bowls for stuffing!
Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
For The Flavorful Filling:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of around 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight schedule!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure your oven is hot and ready for the zucchini boats.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini and cut each one in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to make room for the filling, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Set the scooped-out flesh aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger (if you’re using it) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
4. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Chop the reserved zucchini flesh finely and add it to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is nicely combined and the zucchini is softened.
5. Add Flavor:
Stir in the sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if using), chili flakes (if you like it spicy), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well, and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Arrange the hollowed-out zucchini in a baking dish, cut side facing up. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, making sure they are nicely filled.
7. Bake Them:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the zucchini boats with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. Serve them warm and enjoy your flavorful Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats!
Bon appétit!
FAQs About Garlic Sesame Honey Chicken Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or beef can be used as substitutes for ground chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tofu or cooked lentils, which will provide a hearty filling.
How Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You could also include a finely chopped jalapeño or other fresh peppers to the mixture for an extra spicy kick!
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Boats in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the zucchini boats and bake them on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture and flavor.
What Should I Serve with These Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats make a great stand-alone dish, but you can pair them with a simple side salad, steamed rice, or quinoa for a more filling meal. Enjoy with a side of your favorite dipping sauce if you like!
