High Protein Buffalo Zucchini

These high protein buffalo chicken stuffed zucchini boats are my favorite way to turn everyday ingredients into something exciting yet super nourishing. They come out spicy cheesy and magnificently satisfying each time for a weeknight dinner or meal prep you can look forward to.

This combination first happened when I needed a healthy take on buffalo chicken flavors. Since then it is the one dish my friends insist I bring for potlucks and game nights.

Ingredients

• Zucchini: fresh and medium sized so they soften in the oven and turn into perfect edible boats look for ones with shiny skin and no soft spots
• Shredded chicken: cooked and pulled apart for that classic tender bite make sure it is juicy for best results
• Cottage cheese: blended for a creamy texture that mimics rich dips choose 1 percent or higher for the most protein
• Frank's RedHot Sauce: the main source of heat and buffalo flavor buy original for the right punch
• Light feta cheese: gives a tangy melty finish on top always select feta that is crumbly and white
• Garlic powder: adds aromatic depth without overwhelming other flavors pick a fresh jar so it is potent
• Onion powder: brings mellow savoriness into the mix
• Paprika: for gentle smokiness opt for a sweet or smoked paprika to enhance the warmth
• Dried parsley: for a little earthy green touch
• Black pepper and salt: to balance and intensify every bite

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:

Halve each zucchini lengthwise then scoop out the core with a spoon to make little boats with a 1 quarter inch shell so they hold the filling without getting mushy.

Blend the Cottage Cheese:

Add cottage cheese to a blender or mini food processor and blend until smooth and creamy which helps the filling turn rich without being heavy.

Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl combine shredded chicken blended cottage cheese Frank's RedHot sauce garlic powder onion powder paprika parsley black pepper and salt. Stir together until evenly mixed and completely coated with sauce.

Stuff the Boats:

Use a spoon to fill each zucchini boat with the buffalo chicken mixture press it in to pack the boats well all the way to the top to get hearty bites.

Bake Once:

Place the filled zucchini boats in a baking dish lined with parchment if you like. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes until the zucchini starts to soften and the filling is hot.

Add Feta and Bake Again:

Sprinkle light feta cheese over the top of each boat. Return to the oven for ten more minutes so the feta melts and turns golden in spots.

Let Cool and Serve:

Allow the finished boats to stand for a few minutes to set then serve while warm and melty.

To me the magic is in the small amount of feta on top I always save a little extra just for my serving Its salty tangy punch brings the whole tray alive and my family always fights over the cheesiest boat

Storage and Leftover Tips

These zucchini boats store very well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool fully before packing them to avoid trapped steam. They microwave or oven reheat nicely so you can meal prep lunches in advance.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

You can use cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken in place of regular chicken with the same result. Greek yogurt works in place of blended cottage cheese for a tangier finish. A sprinkle of cheddar or mozzarella on top instead of feta changes up the flavor for cheese lovers.

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Pair these with a crisp green salad or raw veggie sticks for a cool contrast. They are wonderful over a bed of steamed rice or tucked into a wrap for a meal on the go. You can also cut them into halves or quarters for protein packed party bites.

This recipe is simple comforting and sure to earn you compliments. Serve these at a party or cozy night in for a delicious healthy twist on classic buffalo chicken flavors.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do you prepare the zucchini boats?

Halve the zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the flesh to create a hollow center for the filling.

→ What makes these zucchini boats high in protein?

The stuffing uses shredded chicken and cottage cheese, both excellent sources of protein.

→ Can you use a different hot sauce instead of Frank’s RedHot?

Yes, you can substitute with any preferred hot sauce to adjust heat and flavor.

→ Is there a lower fat cheese option for this dish?

Light feta and 1% cottage cheese keep it lower in fat, or use your favorite reduced-fat cheese.

→ What’s the baking time for best results?

Bake filled zucchini for 20 minutes, add feta, then bake an extra 10 minutes for optimal tenderness.