High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are a fantastic choice for a spicy, low-carb dinner. They combine creamy cottage cheese with zesty Frank’s RedHot sauce and are topped with light feta. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, this dish brings together ease of cooking and bold flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in Protein: Each serving packs a powerful protein punch, making it ideal for muscle recovery and weight management.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the rich flavors without worrying about carbs, perfect for those following a low-carb diet.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is easy to whip up even on busy nights.
• Versatile Meal: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy texture ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

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Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare your high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor: Essential for blending the cottage cheese smoothly, ensuring a creamy filling.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking the zucchini boats evenly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Boats

• 4 medium zucchini (approx. 795 grams)
• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (230 grams)
• 1 cup 1% cottage cheese (264 grams)
• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (127 mL)

For Seasoning

• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For Topping

• 1/4 cup light feta cheese (57 grams)

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your zucchini boats cook evenly and become tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini Boats

• Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
• Use a spoon to scoop out the center, creating boat shapes.

Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese

In a blender or food processor:
Add the cottage cheese.
Blend until smooth for a creamy filling texture.

Step 4: Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
Combine shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt.
Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Fill the Zucchini Boats

On a parchment-lined baking sheet:
Place the prepared zucchini boats cut side up.
Generously fill each boat with the buffalo chicken mixture.

Step 6: Bake the Zucchini Boats

Bake in your preheated oven for:
20 minutes. This allows the zucchini to soften while cooking the filling through.

Step 7: Add Feta Cheese and Finish Baking

After 20 minutes:
Sprinkle light feta cheese over each filled boat.
Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until zucchini is tender but not mushy.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Once baked:
Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley or drizzle with light ranch if desired. Serve warm for best flavor.

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad can provide a nice contrast to the warm, spicy zucchini boats. Consider using mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.

Add a Drizzle of Ranch Dressing

• A drizzle of light ranch dressing adds creaminess and balances the spice of the buffalo sauce. It’s a great way to elevate the dish.

Serve with Rice or Quinoa

• Serve these zucchini boats alongside brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Both options add fiber and nutrients while complementing the flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your stuffed zucchini boats with fresh parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.

Enjoy with Sliced Avocado

• Sliced avocado can provide healthy fats and a creamy texture that pairs well with the spicy filling.

How to Perfect High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

To ensure your high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Choose firm zucchinis: Select medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.

• Cook chicken ahead: Use pre-cooked shredded chicken for convenience. Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot sauce. You can always add more later!

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid mushy zucchini. You want them tender but still holding their shape.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like shredded cheese or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Complement your high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs well, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft zucchini.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness, balancing the spicy flavors of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while keeping it healthy.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of baked sweet potato fries contrasts nicely with the heat from the buffalo sauce.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cool down the palate after enjoying spicy stuffed zucchini.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brings a sweet, smoky flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
7. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad offers added protein and fiber while being light and refreshing.
8. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds natural sweetness and is a delightful way to finish off your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring Zucchini Size: Using overly large zucchini can result in tough, watery boats. Choose medium-sized zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
• Overstuffing the Boats: Packing too much filling can lead to spillover while baking. Fill them generously, but ensure there’s enough space for even cooking.
• Skipping the Blending Step: Not blending the cottage cheese can leave you with a chunky filling. Blend until smooth for a creamy consistency that enhances the dish.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can alter cooking times and textures. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking and proper doneness.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Different brands of hot sauce vary in spiciness. Taste your mixture and adjust seasoning according to your heat preference before stuffing the zucchini.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• Wrap each stuffed zucchini boat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating High Protein Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

You can substitute shredded turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy are these high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats?

The spice level depends on the brand of hot sauce used. Frank’s RedHot is moderately spicy but feel free to adjust based on your taste.

Are these zucchini boats gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the zucchini boats up to a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or toppings based on your preferences. They’re perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying great flavors.