Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Looking for a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo chicken while sneaking in some extra veggies? Look no further than these mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats! Created as a lighter alternative to traditional casseroles, these boats are packed with creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The combination of ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and gooey cheese baked into tender zucchini creates a dish that is both comforting and addictive.

As someone who loves the nostalgia of family gatherings and football parties, these Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats never fail to remind me of those cozy times. The sight of golden bubbling cheese emerging from the oven is always a welcome sight. Even picky eaters will be asking for more zucchinis after trying this recipe! Whether enjoyed as a main dish or served as appetizers at gatherings, these boats are versatile and sure to be a hit. So, why not give this easy, healthy twist on comfort food a try and watch it become a family favorite all year round?

Quick Benefits

• A flavorful way to enjoy summer zucchini and leftover chicken
• Creamy, spicy, cheesy, and satisfying with a bold buffalo flavor
• Easy to customize with healthier ingredient swaps like Greek yogurt or Neufchâtel
• Perfect for meal prep – make ahead and bake just before serving

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

• Bold Buffalo Flavor: This recipe combines the spicy tangy flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy cheese, creating a bold and addictive taste.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these zucchini boats, making it a great way to sneak in extra veggies and get kids excited about zucchini.
• Versatile Ingredients: With simple swaps like using Greek yogurt instead of ranch or Neufchâtel instead of cream cheese, you can customize the recipe to your preferences or dietary needs.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: Enjoy the comforting combination of creamy cheese and a little heat, reminiscent of classic buffalo wing flavors.
• Easy to Make: With rotisserie chicken and a few staple ingredients, these zucchini boats come together quickly for a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Parties: Serve these boats as hearty appetizers or a main dish at gatherings, and watch them disappear thanks to the irresistible cheesy, spicy flavors.
• Classic Yet Fresh: This recipe balances a traditional buffalo chicken taste with a modern twist of using zucchini boats, making it a classic yet refreshing dish.
• Healthy Twist: Offering a healthier twist on comfort food, these zucchini boats provide a guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo chicken.
• Make-ahead Option: Prep the chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble the boats just before baking, making it a convenient dish for busy days.

Ingredients for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Main Components

• 30 millilitres buffalo sauce
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 60 millilitres ranch dressing
• 60 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 ounces cream cheese
• 60 grams shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 medium zucchini

Pro Tips for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

To make the Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats, be sure to thoroughly scoop out the zucchini centers to create a sturdy base for the filling and avoid overfilling with wet mixtures to prevent sogginess. Baking the boats uncovered will help them stay firm and hold their shape.

Save time by using rotisserie chicken as a quick and flavorful option for the shredded chicken in this recipe. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level according to your preference. For a lighter or different texture, consider using Greek yogurt or ricotta as a substitute for cream cheese.

For the perfect finish, bake the zucchini boats until the zucchini is fork-tender and the cheese is melted, typically around 20-24 minutes at 350°F. Serve these boats with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a crisp green salad for a classic buffalo pairing, making them a versatile main dish or hearty appetizer for any occasion.

How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Prepare Oven

Preheat the oven to 175°C.

Step 2: Prepare Zucchini Boats

Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and some flesh to create hollow boats, then place them in a 23×33 cm baking dish.

Step 3: Create Filling

Combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar, and buffalo sauce in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until evenly combined.

Step 4: Fill and Top

Divide the chicken mixture among the zucchini boats, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake for 20-24 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden.

Storage Tips

After making Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until hot, or microwave in short bursts to prevent overcooking the zucchini. The chicken mixture can be prepared a day ahead, but fill the zucchini boats just before baking for the best results.

For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing or Neufchâtel cheese in place of cream cheese. You can also swap cheddar and mozzarella cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Serve these boats with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a green salad for a classic buffalo pairing. Adding extra buffalo sauce or ranch before serving can enhance the flavor.

Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main meal or as hearty appetizers at gatherings. The combination of spicy buffalo flavors and creamy cheese filling makes them a crowd-pleaser. By following the storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy these boats fresh and flavorful even on the following days.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the ranch dressing to add a tangy twist to the dish. This swap would reduce the overall calorie and fat content while still providing a creamy element to the filling.

If you prefer a different cheese flavor, Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar and mozzarella. These cheeses will still melt beautifully and add a unique flavor profile to the dish without compromising the overall texture.

To make the recipe dairy-free, opt for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative in place of the regular cream cheese. Look for dairy-free options made from nuts, soy, or coconut to maintain a creamy texture in the filling. This substitution allows those with dairy allergies or dietary preferences to still enjoy the delicious buffalo chicken zucchini boats.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and creative serving suggestion, consider setting up a DIY Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boat bar for a party or gathering. Pre-bake the zucchini boats and prepare the chicken mixture in advance. Provide an array of toppings such as extra shredded cheese, sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, crispy bacon bits, and a variety of hot sauces for guests to customize their boats to their liking. Let everyone fill and assemble their boats before popping them back in the oven to melt the cheese and heat everything through. It’s a interactive and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful dish!

Another serving idea is to plate the Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra ranch dressing and buffalo sauce. The contrast of the warm cheesy boats on a cool, crisp salad creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This presentation not only looks elegant but also adds a light and refreshing touch to the hearty dish, making it a perfect option for a light lunch or a summertime dinner.

FAQs for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred and mix it with the other ingredients.

What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?

Greek yogurt or ricotta can replace cream cheese for a lighter or different texture.

How do I know when the Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are done baking?

Bake until the zucchini is fork-tender and the cheese is melted, usually about 20-24 minutes at 350°F.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Any favorite buffalo wing sauce will do. Adjust the amount to control the heat level to your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo chicken in a healthier, vegetable-packed dish. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these zucchini boats are sure to impress with their creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your preferences – from swapping out ingredients to adjusting the level of heat, there are endless possibilities to make these Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats your own. So, give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a staple in your meal rotation, bringing comfort and flavor to your table all year long. Enjoy the delicious journey of making and savoring these Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats!

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats: Creamy, spicy, and cheesy zucchini halves filled with buffalo chicken goodness, perfect for a lighter, flavorful meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time24 Minutes

Total Time39 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 zucchini boats)

Ingredients

Main Components

• 30 millilitres buffalo sauce
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 60 millilitres ranch dressing
• 60 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 ounces cream cheese
• 60 grams shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 medium zucchini

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven: Preheat the oven to 175°C.
2. Prepare Zucchini Boats: Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and some flesh to create hollow boats, then place them in a 23×33 cm baking dish.
3. Create Filling: Combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar, and buffalo sauce in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Fill and Top: Divide the chicken mixture among the zucchini boats, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake and Finish: Bake for 20-24 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden.