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Best Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Pesto Chicken 🍗

Dom Lorenzo
by
Updated:
2 Comments
5 from 1 votes

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These Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats are super easy to whip up, packed with the bold taste of chicken and sun-dried tomato pesto, all nestled in a crunchy zucchini shell. Perfect for getting more veggies in your diet and wowing your family and friends. Excited to get started? Let's do this!

A focused shot of keto stuffed zucchini boats cut showcasing the texture.
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Preparation and cooking overview

Mix ground chicken, chopped fresh zucchini, sun-dried tomato pesto, and grated Parmesan. Then, stuff this mix into zucchini halves. After a bit of baking, sprinkle more Parmesan on top and bake again. In just 30 minutes, your easy keto-stuffed zucchini boats are all set!

Chef's note

If chicken isn't your favorite, swap it out for ground turkey, pork, or beef. The best part? The baking time doesn't change, no matter which meat you choose. So, get creative, make it your own, and savor every bite!

If you're a chicken lover, you're in for a treat! We've got plenty of tasty chicken recipes for you to try!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 2 Servings

🍗 Ingredients for this keto stuffed zucchini boats recipe

To make these keto zucchini boats, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 10 ounces chicken, minced
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
All the ingredients required to make keto stuffed zucchini boats are gathered and arranged on a plate.

Ingredient substitutions

Do you see something on the ingredients list you'd rather skip? Check out these keto-friendly swaps:

  • Sun-dried tomato pesto: Use a traditional Genovese pesto sauce instead of tomato. You can buy it from any store or opt for homemade.
  • Parmesan cheese: Substitute Parmesan cheese with Romano or Asiago cheese for a slightly different cheesy twist.

Additional ingredients

Boost the taste of your keto zucchini boats with these tasty additions:

  • Ground pork or beef: Combine some ground pork or beef with the chicken for a heartier filling.
  • Fresh spinach or kale: Mix fresh spinach or kale into the chicken blend for an added nutrient boost.
  • Red pepper flakes: For a spicy touch, sprinkle red pepper flakes over your filling before baking.
  • Bacon bits: Sprinkle bacon bits into the mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
A close-up shot of keto stuffed zucchini boats served on a plate.

Cooking tools required

To make these chicken stuffed zucchini boats, you'll need the following tools:

  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cheese grater

Tools substitute options

  • Aluminum foil: If you're out of aluminum foil, use parchment paper to line the baking sheet.
  • Baking sheet: Use a baking dish to bake the boats if you don't have a baking sheet.
Keto stuffed zucchini boats served on a plate and garnished with chopped fresh herbs.

How to make Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  3. Crack an egg and separate the yolk in a small bowl.
  4. Wash and chop parsley for garnish and set aside.

Cooking instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175 °C).
  2. Split the zucchini in half lengthwise.
  3. Scoop out the flesh from the inside, creating a boat to hold the stuffing.
  4. Finely chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh, then combine it with the ground chicken, egg yolk, pesto, Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper.
  5. Stuff the zucchini halves with your mixture and place them on a baking sheet covered in foil.
  6. Give them a light drizzle of olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle some more Parmesan on top and put them back in for 10 more minutes.
  8. Once done, add a touch of fresh parsley on top, and they're ready to enjoy!

Chef's pro tip

Take your time when hollowing out the zucchini. Gently and evenly scoop out the flesh using a small spoon or a melon baller. It's essential to keep a consistent thickness at the zucchini's base. By being patient, you'll keep the boat shape intact and guarantee each bite is just right.

What to serve with keto stuffed zucchini boats?

While the stuffed zucchini boats with chicken are delicious on their own, consider expanding your meal with these complementary side dishes:

  • Mexican Cauliflower Rice: This flavorful alternative to traditional rice fills you up and pairs well with the zucchini boats.
  • Roasted Asparagus: The subtle taste of asparagus balances the richness of the chicken and cheese filling.
  • Creamed Spinach: A velvety spinach side adds depth without overshadowing the zucchini's natural flavor.
  • Keto Cornbread: This low-carb bread offers a warm, comforting addition to the meal.
  • Kale Salad: A crisp kale salad dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, and spices freshens up the plate.
Keto zucchini boats filled with chicken and pesto and garnished with fresh herbs on a plate.

How to make it healthier?

  • Use a minimal amount of sea salt in the recipe to limit your sodium intake. You can also opt for a low-sodium version of pesto.
  • Add more diced veggies into the stuffing mix for a more nutritious and filling meal.

Time-saving tips

  • Opt for pre-minced chicken from the store to cut down on prep time.
  • If you're pressed for time, go for a quality store-bought pesto instead of making it from scratch.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • To get a head start, mix the chicken, egg yolk, pesto, cheese, salt, and black pepper in advance. Store this blend in a sealed container in the refrigerator until you're ready to use.
A piece cut from the keto stuffed zucchini boats with a fork and a knife.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store the leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days.

Best reheating practices

  • Microwave: Transfer the remaining zucchini boats to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid and reheat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed throughout.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats take regular zucchini and elevate it into a culinary delight. Ideal for a simple lunch, dinner, or even brunch, these zucchini boats are a tasty option. Imagine serving them and enjoying the pleasant aroma they bring to the table. 

So, get your ingredients ready and treat your loved ones to this nutritious dish. A word of advice: they might disappear quickly, so you might want to prepare extra! 

Keto stuffed zucchini boats with chicken and pesto served on a plate with a fork.

Craving some more chicken recipes? Here are some yummy options:

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! Zucchini is a low-carb vegetable, which makes it a great choice for those on a low-carb diet.

It depends on the ingredients used in the filling. The zucchini boat will be keto-friendly if you use keto-friendly ingredients like meat, cheese, and low-carb veggies.

First, allow them to cool completely after cooking to freeze stuffed zucchini boats. Then, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they become solid. Once solid, move the zucchini boats to freezer bags and store them for up to 3 months.

No, cooked zucchini is not high in carbs when cooked. A medium-sized raw zucchini (about 200 grams) will have approximately 6 grams of carbs.

Place them on a lined baking sheet to reheat stuffed zucchini boats and bake for about five minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).

No, you don't have to peel the zucchini skin in these low-carb stuffed zucchini boats. The skin adds color and texture and helps retain the boat's shape when cooked.

📖 Recipe

Zucchini boats filled with chicken and pesto, topped with fresh herbs on a plate.

Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Savor these flavorful Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats with delicious chicken and sun-dried tomato pesto, a perfect low-carb meal.
5 from 1 vote
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: 30-minute, Chicken stuffed zucchini boats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 331kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 10 ounces chicken minced
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175 °C).
  • Split the zucchini in half lengthwise.
  • Scoop out the flesh from the inside, creating a boat to hold the stuffing.
  • Finely chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh, then combine it with the ground chicken, egg yolk, pesto, Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper.
  • Stuff the zucchini halves with your mixture and place them on a baking sheet covered in foil.
  • Give them a light drizzle of olive oil and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Sprinkle some more Parmesan on top and put them back in for 10 more minutes.
  • Once done, add a touch of fresh parsley on top, and they're ready to enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Amount Per Serving
Calories 331 Calories from Fat 225
% Daily Value*
Fat 25g38%
Saturated Fat 7g44%
Trans Fat 0.1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 4g
Monounsaturated Fat 11g
Cholesterol 160mg53%
Sodium 707mg31%
Potassium 421mg12%
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 19g38%
Vitamin A 627IU13%
Vitamin C 19mg23%
Calcium 161mg16%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Rick says

    5 stars
    This is great and doesn't take a lot of ingredients.
    I double the recipe because my family couldn't get enough

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Hi Rick,

      That’s awesome to hear! Doubling the recipe sounds like the perfect move—so glad your family loved it that much. We’re all about keeping it simple and delicious. Thanks for sharing, you totally made our day!

      Reply
5 from 1 vote

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