Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Boats

This hearty Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Zucchini Boats recipe transforms ordinary zucchini into a vessel for creamy, cheesy goodness while keeping dinner on the lighter side. The combination of tender shredded chicken and rich Alfredo sauce nestled in fresh zucchini creates a perfect balance of comfort food flavors with nutritious vegetables.

I created this recipe when looking for creative ways to use up our garden zucchini harvest last summer. What started as an experiment quickly became my husband's most requested dinner and a regular in our meal rotation.

• Medium zucchinis: choose firm ones with shiny skin for the best texture and flavor
• Cooked chicken breast: using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor
• Alfredo sauce: the creamy base that brings everything together
• Mozzarella cheese: provides that perfect melty stretch when you take a bite
• Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish
• Garlic powder: infuses the filling with aromatic flavor without overpowering
• Italian seasoning: a blend that adds depth and herbaceous notes
• Salt and pepper: the essential seasoning duo for balancing flavors
• Fresh parsley: adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:

Slice each zucchini lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create boat shapes. Leave about 1/4 inch thickness on all sides to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Arrange them cut side up in your baking dish making sure they fit snugly.

Create the Filling:

Combine the shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce creating a creamy base. Add the seasonings and half of both cheeses ensuring everything is thoroughly mixed. This mixture should be thick enough to hold together but still moist and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings before filling the boats.

Fill and Top:

Generously fill each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture pressing down slightly to ensure it's well packed. Distribute the filling evenly among all boats making sure none are overfilled. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top creating a blanket of dairy goodness that will become golden and bubbly.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover with foil for the first part of baking to help the zucchini soften without the cheese burning. Removing the foil for the final cooking time allows the cheese to develop that appetizing golden color and slightly crispy edges that make these boats irresistible.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the cheese turn golden and bubbly in those final minutes of baking. The aroma that fills the kitchen takes me back to family dinners where everyone would hover near the oven asking when dinner would be ready.

Serving Suggestions

These zucchini boats stand beautifully on their own as a complete meal but pair wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the Alfredo filling creating a perfectly balanced meal. For hungrier appetites consider serving alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat place in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch but may make the zucchini softer than ideal. These boats also freeze surprisingly well simply cool completely then wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Making It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization to suit your preferences. Try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile or substitute the chicken with turkey or even shrimp for variety. Plant based eaters can replace the chicken with white beans or chickpeas and use dairy free alternatives for the cheese and sauce. The versatility of this recipe makes it a perfect canvas for creativity in the kitchen.

Common Queries

→ What type of chicken works best?

Use cooked, shredded chicken breast for a tender filling. Rotisserie chicken is also convenient and flavorful.

→ Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade Alfredo adds freshness, but store-bought works well for convenience and speed.

→ How do I prevent soggy zucchini?

Scoop out seeds well and avoid overbaking. For firmer results, briefly salt the zucchini and pat dry before filling.

→ What cheeses can I substitute?

Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina, and use Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan if desired.

→ Can this dish be prepped ahead?

Yes, assemble the boats in advance and store covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

→ Is this meal suitable for low-carb diets?

Yes, using zucchini instead of pasta makes this a tasty low-carb dinner option.