These Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats are a great way to enjoy a tasty meal without the carbs! They are filled with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and topped with rich marinara sauce.
Using zucchini instead of pasta makes this dish light and fun! I love how simple it is to prepare—just scoop, fill, and bake. Plus, they make the perfect dinner for anyone following a keto diet!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Use medium zucchinis for these boats. If zucchinis aren’t available, eggplant or bell peppers could work too. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary with these substitutes.
Cooked Chicken: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or if you’re meal-prepping, leftover grilled chicken works great. For a vegetarian option, consider replacing chicken with lentils or chopped mushrooms.
Marinara Sauce: Look for sugar-free marinara to stay in line with keto. If you’re out, any low-carb tomato sauce can serve as a substitute. Just check the label to ensure it’s keto-friendly!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that classic chicken parmesan flavor. If you need a substitute, try provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. For a stronger cheese flavor, adding some fontina works too!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Boats Perfectly Tender?
Getting your zucchini boats tender is all about preparing them correctly! First, scoop out the flesh carefully to create enough space for the filling without breaking the zucchini. It’s important to brush them lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before baking.
- Place the zucchini cut-side up for even cooking.
- Bake them empty for about 10 minutes before adding the filling; this will help reduce moisture and improve texture.
Keep an eye on the baking time—20-25 minutes should do, until they are tender but not mushy. Enjoy the fresh flavors and delicious cheese!
Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 35 minutes. So, you can whip up a delicious keto meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your zucchini will cook evenly and perfectly. While it’s warming up, you can prepare the zucchini boats.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. With a small spoon, carefully scoop out the middle to create boats, leaving about 1/4-inch thick walls. This will give enough structure to hold your filling!»
3. Season the Boats:
Brush the inside of each zucchini half lightly with olive oil. Then, place them cut-side up on a lined baking sheet. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over them for added flavor.
4. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir everything until fully combined.
5. Fill the Zucchini:
Using a spoon, fill each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture evenly. Don’t worry if they’re piled high; they’ll shrink down as they cook!
6. Add Cheese Topping:
Once filled, top each boat with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra cheesy goodness.
7. Bake the Zucchini Boats:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
After removing from the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, then serve warm and enjoy your delicious, low-carb chicken parmesan zucchini boats!
Dig in and savor every bite of your healthy and tasty meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Boats?
Absolutely! While zucchini is perfect for this recipe, you can also use eggplant or bell peppers. Just adjust the baking time as the cooking requirements may differ.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with cooked lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. Add some extra seasoning to enhance the flavors!
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
If you want to switch things up, you can use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Just make sure any cheese you choose melts well for that satisfying gooey texture!
These tips should help you customize and enjoy your Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats even more!
