Healthy & Easy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Canned Chicken: A Low-Carb, Weight Watchers Friendly Weeknight Meal

If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors and wholesome meals, get ready to fall in love with these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats. Combining the beloved spicy tang of buffalo chicken with the refreshing crispness of zucchini, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying dinner option. Perfectly suited for zucchini season, these boats are not only incredibly flavorful but also remarkably healthy, budget-friendly, and adaptable to various dietary needs. Crafted with convenient canned chicken breast, they stand out as an economical choice that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.

This recipe proudly ticks many boxes: it’s healthy, Weight Watchers friendly (with options for even lower points), naturally gluten-free, and delightfully low-carb. Plus, with a few simple tweaks (detailed in the Variations & Substitutions section), it can easily be made lactose-free. Whether you’re actively managing your diet or simply searching for a fantastic weeknight meal that the whole family will adore, these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a culinary winner.

The inspiration for this crowd-pleasing dish comes from a fusion of flavors. On one hand, it draws from the concept of hearty stuffed vegetables like my Healthy Perogy Zucchini Boats, transforming a garden staple into a complete meal. On the other hand, my undeniable obsession with buffalo chicken has led to a range of exciting recipes, including Skinny Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks, No-Cook Shredded Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Buffalo Chicken Panini, and Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Mini Peppers. These zucchini boats perfectly capture that spicy, savory essence in a fresh, guilt-free package.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats Recipe

There are countless reasons why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Healthy: Packed with fresh zucchini and lean protein, these boats offer a balanced meal that supports a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing canned chicken breast makes this recipe incredibly economical, proving that delicious and nutritious meals don’t have to break the bank. It’s a smart way to stretch your grocery budget.
• Dietary Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, this dish is suitable for various dietary needs. With simple substitutions, it can also be made lactose-free, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it.
• Weight Watchers Approved: Designed with wellness in mind, this recipe is a fantastic option for those following the Weight Watchers program, offering a satisfying meal with low points.
• Quick & Easy Weeknight Meal: With minimal prep time and straightforward baking instructions, these zucchini boats are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome dinner on the table fast.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer more spice, different vegetables, or alternative cheeses, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
• Fantastic for Meal Prep: The filling can be prepared in advance, making assembly and baking a breeze when you’re ready to eat. They also reheat beautifully, ideal for healthy lunches throughout the week.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The bold, tangy flavor of buffalo chicken combined with creamy cheese and tender zucchini creates a mouth-watering experience that will keep you coming back for more.

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

Crafting these delectable Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats requires a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and some tips for selecting the best components:

• Zucchini: You’ll need four medium zucchinis. Look for firm, vibrant green zucchinis that are free from blemishes. They should be roughly similar in size to ensure even cooking. Larger zucchinis tend to have more seeds and might be watery, so medium ones are ideal for holding the filling.
• Canned Chicken Breast: This is the secret to an incredibly fast and economical meal! It’s crucial to purchase ‘Chunks of Chicken’ rather than shredded or flaked varieties. The chunked chicken provides a better texture for the filling and looks more appetizing. If only flaked is available, it will still work, but the texture will be softer. Ensure you drain it well before mixing.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: The heart of the “buffalo” flavor! I highly recommend using Frank’s Red Hot sauce for its classic taste and perfect balance of heat and tang. You can adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
• Cream Cheese: To achieve that creamy, rich texture in the filling, light cream cheese is used. It helps bind the ingredients together and mellows the spice of the buffalo sauce. For an even lighter option or to reduce Weight Watchers points further, fat-free cream cheese works wonderfully.
• Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix: This seasoning is essential for that signature buffalo-ranch flavor profile. I find the Hidden Valley brand offers the best taste for dry Ranch seasoning, giving a consistent and delicious result.
• Cheddar Cheese: Low-fat cheddar cheese is incorporated into the filling for melty goodness and a savory depth. Its sharp flavor complements the buffalo chicken beautifully. You can also experiment with fat-free cheddar to reduce calories and WW points.
• Red Pepper, Diced: Adds a lovely crunch, sweetness, and vibrant color to the filling. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C and fiber, boosting the nutritional value.
• Green Onion, Diced: Provides a mild oniony bite and freshness. Half of the green onions will go into the filling, and the other half will be reserved for garnish.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A small amount adds a subtle umami depth that enhances the overall savory flavor of the chicken mixture.
• Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic complexity and a robust flavor that is indispensable in almost any savory dish.
• Optional Garnishes (Parmesan cheese and Ranch dressing): These are highly recommended for elevating the flavor and presentation. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty finish, and a drizzle of Litehouse Homestyle Ranch dressing (my personal favorite!) ties all the flavors together beautifully, providing a cool contrast to the spicy filling.

For a complete list of specific quantities, please refer to the recipe card below.

📖 Versatile Variations & Smart Substitutions

One of the best aspects of this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to customize it to your liking, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ideas for variations and substitutions:

• Chicken Alternatives: While canned chicken breast is convenient, you can easily substitute it with 2 cups of cooked and shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked ground chicken (lean ground chicken or turkey works well), or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Simply shred or chop it finely before mixing.
• Onion Options: If you don’t have green onions, red onion can be a great substitute. Dice it finely for a sharper, more pungent flavor, or sauté it slightly to mellow its intensity before adding to the mix.
• Bell Pepper Choices: Instead of red bell peppers, feel free to use orange or yellow bell peppers for a different color and slightly sweeter flavor profile. You could even use a mix!
• Making it Lactose-Free: To ensure this dish is suitable for those with lactose intolerance, simply use lactose-free cream cheese and lactose-free cheddar or mozzarella cheese. These alternatives are widely available and perform just like their traditional counterparts.
• Amplify the Spice: For those who crave extra heat, there are several ways to kick up the spice level. Consider adding some finely diced jalapeño peppers (with or without seeds), a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite extra hot sauce to the filling. You can also follow my daughter’s lead and add an extra drizzle of buffalo wing sauce as a garnish after baking!
• Tone Down the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of buffalo sauce in the filling. To maintain moisture and creaminess, replace the reduced buffalo sauce with an equal amount of Ranch dressing directly into the mixture. This will give you all the flavor without as much heat.
• Cheese Swaps: Mozzarella cheese is an excellent alternative to cheddar. It melts beautifully and has a milder flavor that allows the buffalo tang to shine through. Provolone or a spicy pepper jack cheese could also be interesting choices.
• Dressing Garnish: While Ranch dressing is a classic pairing, blue cheese dressing is another fantastic option for a more traditional buffalo flavor. The pungent notes of blue cheese dressing offer a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Air Fryer Method: For a quicker cooking time or if you prefer a crispier zucchini, these boats can be made in an air fryer. Lightly spray the stuffed zucchini with olive oil, then air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is heated through and slightly browned. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
• Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrition and texture, consider adding finely diced celery, carrots, or even corn kernels to the buffalo chicken filling.

🔪 Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Creating these flavorful zucchini boats is a straightforward process, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps for a mouth-watering meal:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring all surfaces are covered. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the buffalo chicken filling: the diced red pepper, half of the diced green onions, drained canned chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, light cream cheese, dry ranch seasoning mix, low-fat cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly until all components are well combined and the mixture is uniform.

Wash your medium zucchinis thoroughly. On a cutting board, carefully cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Trim off both ends of each zucchini half. This preparation creates the perfect “boats” for your delicious filling.

Using a spoon or a melon baller (which makes this step much easier and cleaner), gently scoop out the inner flesh and seeds from each zucchini half. Be careful not to scoop too much; aim to leave at least a ¼ inch thick wall on all sides to ensure the zucchini boats remain sturdy during baking. Discard the scooped-out zucchini pulp.

Arrange the hollowed zucchini halves in the prepared baking dish, cut-side up. Spoon the buffalo chicken filling generously into each zucchini boat. Using the back of the spoon, gently press the mixture down to ensure it’s firmly packed into the cavity. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring a good seal around the rim. This traps the steam, helping the zucchini cook evenly and become tender. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The zucchini should be soft enough to be easily pierced with a fork but still hold its shape firmly.

Once baked, carefully remove the foil. If desired, garnish your buffalo chicken zucchini boats with the remaining diced green onion, a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of creamy Ranch dressing. Serve hot and enjoy your wholesome, flavorful meal!

Hint: To prevent your zucchini boats from tipping over and spilling their delicious filling during baking, arrange them snugly in the baking dish, ensuring they support each other.

✅ Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Zucchini Boats

Achieving the best results with your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help ensure your dish is flavorful, well-textured, and perfectly cooked every time:

• Choose the Right Chicken: Always opt for ‘chunked’ canned chicken breast over flaked varieties. The chunks maintain a better texture within the filling, providing a more substantial and appealing bite compared to a mushier, shredded texture.
• Don’t Over-Scoop the Zucchini: When hollowing out your zucchini halves, be mindful not to make the walls too thin. Aim to leave at least a ¼ inch thickness of zucchini flesh. This ensures the boats remain sturdy and won’t collapse or become flimsy during baking, keeping your delicious filling intact.
• Firmly Pack the Filling: Once the buffalo chicken mixture is spooned into the zucchini boats, use the back of a spoon to gently but firmly press it down. This compaction helps the filling hold its shape, preventing it from spilling out and ensuring an even distribution of flavors with every bite.
• Cover Tightly While Baking: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil and sealing it tightly is crucial. This technique traps steam inside, which helps the zucchini soften evenly and become tender without drying out the flavorful chicken filling.
• Utilize a Melon Baller: For an easier and cleaner hollowing process, a melon baller is an invaluable tool. It creates a smooth, uniform cavity in the zucchini halves more efficiently than a standard spoon.
• Rest the Filling: Allow the buffalo chicken filling to rest for about 10 minutes after mixing and before stuffing the zucchinis. This brief rest period helps the cream cheese and other ingredients slightly firm up, making the mixture easier to handle and scoop into the boats without being too runny.
• Arrange Zucchini Snugly: Place your stuffed zucchini boats close together in the baking dish. This “snug fit” provides mutual support, preventing them from tipping over during baking and losing their precious filling.
• Garnish Just Before Serving: If you plan to add a drizzle of Ranch or blue cheese dressing and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, do so just before serving. Adding them after baking ensures the dressings don’t separate or melt excessively in the oven, preserving their fresh taste and appealing appearance.
• Make it Meal-Prep Friendly: This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready for dinner, simply scoop the filling into freshly hollowed zucchinis and bake.
• Broil for a Golden Finish: For an extra touch of deliciousness, if you desire a crispier, golden-brown cheese topping, place the baked zucchini boats under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

🥗 What to Serve with Your Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are hearty enough to be a complete meal on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement the flavors and create a well-rounded dinner:

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a cool Ranch dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy zucchini boats.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers make an excellent side, adding more vitamins and fiber without much fuss.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve alongside a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: If you’re not strictly low-carb, a serving of quinoa or brown rice can add another layer of texture and complex carbohydrates.
• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potato fries or wedges can beautifully balance the heat of the buffalo chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: A classic summer side, corn on the cob provides sweetness and a satisfying crunch, especially when grilled.
• Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw offers a cool, crisp, and tangy counterpoint to the rich filling.
• Bread or Garlic Knots: For those who enjoy a bit of bread, some crusty bread or soft garlic knots are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

For even more inspiration, you can explore 35 Recipe ideas for what to serve with stuffed zucchini!

🍽 Essential Kitchen Equipment

Making these Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats doesn’t require a lot of specialized kitchen gadgets. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal efficiently:

• 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: A sturdy, oven-safe baking dish (at least 2 inches deep) is essential for baking the zucchini boats. This common size typically holds all 8 halves comfortably. You can find a suitable one here.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the filling ingredients easily.
• Spoon or Melon Baller: While a regular spoon works for scooping out the zucchini flesh, a melon baller is highly recommended for creating clean, even cavities quickly and efficiently.
• Aluminum Foil: For covering the baking dish during cooking, crucial for steam retention and even zucchini tenderization.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing the zucchini and dicing the vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.

Having these tools ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!

🌡️ Storage & Meal Prep Tips

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats are not only delicious fresh out of the oven but also make for excellent leftovers and a fantastic meal prep option. Here’s how to store them effectively:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave (for quicker results, though zucchini might become slightly softer) or reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture.
• Meal Prepping the Filling: This recipe is ideal for advanced preparation. You can prepare the entire buffalo chicken filling up to 3 days in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply hollow out your fresh zucchinis, stuff them, and bake! This significantly cuts down on weeknight cooking time.
• Freezing Instructions: If you wish to freeze the zucchini boats, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating from Frozen: To reheat from frozen, you can bake them directly in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and the zucchini is tender. You might want to cover them loosely with foil for the first part of reheating to prevent the tops from drying out.

👪 Serving Size & Adjustments

This recipe is designed to yield 8 delicious servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping healthy lunches throughout the week. The use of four medium zucchinis, cut in half, naturally creates eight individual boats.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Should you need to feed a smaller group, you can easily halve the recipe to make 4 servings. For larger gatherings or if you want to ensure plenty of leftovers, feel free to double or even triple the quantities. Most recipe cards offer a convenient feature: by clicking on the serving number (often highlighted or adjustable), you can automatically adjust all ingredient quantities to your desired yield. This makes scaling the recipe incredibly simple and precise.

Remember, when increasing the recipe size, you might need a larger baking dish or multiple dishes to ensure the zucchini boats fit snugly without overcrowding, which can affect cooking evenness.

🔢 Weight Watchers Friendly @ 2 WW Points!

For those mindful of their nutritional intake, especially if you’re following the Weight Watchers program, you’ll be delighted to know that this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini recipe is incredibly friendly to your points budget! Each serving is calculated at a low 2 WW points.

This point value is achieved by using reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat cheddar cheese in the filling. These ingredient choices maintain the delicious creamy and cheesy texture without significantly increasing the calorie or fat content.

* Pro-Tip for Lower Points: You can further reduce the Weight Watchers points, potentially to 0 or 1 point per serving, by opting for fat-free cream cheese and fat-free cheddar cheese. These fat-free alternatives are readily available in most grocery stores and can make a big difference in your daily points tally without compromising too much on flavor, especially with the bold buffalo seasoning.

This makes the Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats an excellent choice for a guilt-free, satisfying meal that supports your wellness goals!

❔ Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Boats

Here are some common questions and helpful answers about making and enjoying buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats:

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