Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

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When your weeknight dinner needs a little spark without piling on the carbs, these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the answer. Imagine all the cheesy, savory goodness of classic chicken parmesan, but scooped into tender roasted zucchini shells. The combination is both comforting and fresh, making it a dish you’ll crave again and again.

With the satisfying crunch of golden breaded chicken, gooey mozzarella, and robust marinara sauce nestled inside, each bite offers familiar flavors in a wholesome, lighter presentation. These zucchini boats are a fantastic way to make vegetables the star of the meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This recipe brings all the best parts of chicken parmesan into a single, convenient, and healthier dish. It’s kid-friendly, low-carb, and doesn’t require deep frying to get that signature crunch. Plus, it makes use of summer zucchini in the most delicious way. Whether you’re watching your carbs or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, these boats fit right in.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Stuffed Zucchini?

You can use pre-cooked crispy chicken tenders or make your own from scratch using panko and parmesan. Store-bought breaded chicken cutlets are a quick fix on busy nights, while homemade versions let you season to your liking. For the best texture, make sure the chicken is fully cooked and crispy before stuffing it into the zucchini shells.

Ingredients for the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini is all about balance: crispiness from the chicken, sweetness from the marinara, richness from the cheese, and freshness from the vegetable base. These ingredients bring it all together beautifully:

• Zucchini
• Crispy chicken
• Marinara sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil
• Olive oil

How To Make the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Slice each zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the center to create boat-like shells. Brush them lightly with olive oil and season with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Roast at 400°F for about 12 minutes until tender but still holding their shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re using store-bought crispy chicken, simply dice it into bite-sized chunks. For homemade, bread chicken pieces in a mix of panko and grated parmesan, then bake or air-fry until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 3: Assemble the Boats

Add a spoonful of marinara sauce to each roasted zucchini half. Layer with the crispy chicken pieces, more marinara, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

Return the stuffed zucchini to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 10-12 minutes. Top with fresh basil just before serving.

How to Serve and Store Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats are best served fresh out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and the chicken retains its crispiness. They make a hearty meal for four when served with a side. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the chicken from getting soggy.

What to Serve With Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats?

Garlic Bread with a Twist

A crispy garlic bread or a slice of sourdough with a garlic-herb spread pairs beautifully with the saucy zucchini boats.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with balsamic glaze bring a cool and juicy contrast.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

If you’re feeding a crowd or want to round out the meal with carbs, a creamy pasta adds comfort and color. See recipe

Roasted Asparagus

For something green and snappy on the side, roasted asparagus adds an elegant bite. Try this easy recipe

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Make it a high-protein dinner spread by pairing it with herby meatballs and grains. Check it out

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Double the crunch by serving a small portion of this fan-favorite cutlet. See more

Want More Low-Carb Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into low-carb meals that still deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture, you’ll love these:

• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon for a protein-packed, buttery favorite.
• Zucchini Lasagna for another zucchini-based comfort food.
• Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice when you need a protein-rich punch.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re craving creamy and crispy in one bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use homemade crispy chicken or a shortcut version? Did you go with spicy marinara or classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated low-carb, protein-packed meals and more on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite recipe: Janet Dishes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Zucchini Boats take a classic Italian comfort dish and reinvent it into something lighter, fresher, and just as delicious. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a family with different tastes. Whether you’re new to stuffed vegetables or a seasoned zucchini lover, this dish is guaranteed to win you over.

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