Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure with these Buffalo Chicken Enchilada Zucchini Boats! This mouthwatering dish combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the hearty goodness of shredded chicken, all nestled in tender zucchini "boats." Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on your favorite Mexican flavors, this recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy alternative that will leave you craving more. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser. Dive into the recipe and discover how to elevate your dinner game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper or light cooking spray.
- Wash zucchini thoroughly and slice them lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the inner seeds and create a boat-like cavity, leaving approximately 1/4-inch thickness on the sides and bottom.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, half of the shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix ingredients until evenly distributed.
- Arrange zucchini boats on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.
- Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese over the filled zucchini boats, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot and optionally drizzle with additional buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Look for medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. This ensures they hold up well when baked and provide a sturdy base for your filling.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, mix in a little ranch dressing with the buffalo sauce.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, adding a bit of pepper jack can give your enchilada boats an extra kick.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini and filling in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble right before baking for a quick meal.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your dish. You can also top with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Perfect Baking: Keep an eye on the zucchini while baking. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your zucchini, so test for tenderness and golden cheese for the best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
