Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini with Chicken is a delightful and healthy dish that combines tender zucchini with a flavorful filling of chicken, vegetables, and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a nutritious dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious. The combination of fresh ingredients and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Follow these steps to create a unique and delectable stuffed zucchini dish.
Ingredients
- 1 large zucchini
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 200 grams of cheese (7 oz), shredded
- 300 grams of chicken breast (10.5 oz), finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Zucchini:
- Heat the Oven: Warm your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Zucchini: Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create a hollow shell, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh. Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh for the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the skillet, add the diced onion and cook until it softens. Incorporate the grated carrot, minced garlic, and chopped tomato. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the reserved zucchini flesh to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Reintroduce the cooked chicken to the skillet and thoroughly combine everything.
Assemble the Dish:
- Mix with Cheese and Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and vegetable mixture with the shredded cheese and beaten eggs. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Stuff the Zucchini: Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out zucchini halves, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
Bake:
- Bake the Zucchini: Place the stuffed zucchini halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is set and golden brown on top.
Serve:
- Garnish and savor: Remove from the oven and let it cool briefly before serving.. Sprinkle with fresh herbs to enhance both flavor and presentation. Serve warm.
Tips:
- Cheese Choices: Use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite spices to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Side Suggestions: Serve with a fresh green salad or a side of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Indulge in this delightful Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Zucchini, a satisfying meal that harmoniously blends nutritious vegetables with savory chicken. The gooey cheese and robust filling create an irresistible combination. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a memorable gathering with friends, savor this distinctive and delicious stuffed zucchini recipe that is bound to win hearts in your kitchen!