Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats – A Healthy and Flavorful Snack
Looking for a snack that’s both healthy and packed with flavor? These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are the perfect choice! Made with tender zucchini, spicy buffalo chicken, and melted cheese, this dish is a low-carb delight that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a snack, these zucchini boats are sure to impress with their bold taste and nutritious ingredients.
Table of Contents
⏱️Prep Time
10 minutes
🔥Cook Time
15 minutes
🍽️Serving
4
đź›’Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini, halved and hollowed | 4 medium |
| Cooked chicken breast, shredded | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces |
| Buffalo sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Olive oil spray | As needed |
| Green onions, chopped | For garnish |
🌟Benefits of Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini
- Low-Carb Option : Zucchini serves as a healthy, low-carb base, making this snack perfect for those watching their carb intake.
- High in Protein : Shredded chicken provides 20g of protein per serving, supporting muscle growth and satiety.
- Rich in Vitamins : Zucchini is packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Quick and Convenient : Using an air fryer reduces cooking time while maintaining flavor and texture.
👩‍🍳Directions
1. Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash and trim the zucchini. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp to create hollow “boats.”
2. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
3. Assemble the Zucchini Boats
- Spray the zucchini halves with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Fill each zucchini boat with the buffalo chicken mixture.
4. Cook in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the zucchini boats in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Remove the zucchini boats from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
🧠Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 210 | Provides balanced energy |
| Protein | 20g | Builds muscle & keeps you full |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | Low-carb option for healthy eating |
| Fiber | 2g | Supports digestion and promotes fullness |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV | Promotes healthy vision and skin |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV | Boosts immunity and skin health |
🧊Meal Prep & Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 2 days | Reheat in air fryer or oven until warm |
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling in advance and store it separately for quick assembly.
- Portable Snack Idea: Pack zucchini boats in individual containers for easy grab-and-go snacks.
🔄Fun Variations on Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats
The classic Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fantastic snack, but there are plenty of creative ways to make them even better! Here are some simple ideas to add variety and extra flavor to this dish:
Cheesy Delight: Add a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer, creamier topping.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or drizzle extra buffalo sauce for a fiery flavor boost.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh chopped parsley or dill to the filling for a fragrant, herbal twist.
Here’s a quick guide to a few fun variations:
| Dish Variation | Ingredients Needed | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Delight | Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese | 2 minutes |
| Spicy Kick | Cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce | 1 minute |
| Herb Infusion | Fresh parsley or dill | 1 minute |
🧒Why Kids Love These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats?
- Cheesy and Flavorful: The melted cheese and buffalo chicken filling make them irresistible.
- Fun to Eat: The zucchini boats are easy to hold and bite into, making snack time enjoyable.
- Customizable: Kids can add their favorite toppings like ranch dressing or extra cheese.
Why Parents Love This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats ?
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein, vitamins, and low carbs for a healthy snack.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Versatile: Adaptable to different ingredients and preferences.
🎥Added Bonus
Pair these zucchini boats with a Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip for an extra creamy and tangy flavor. Simply mix plain Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning for a healthier dipping option!
🧑Conclusion
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also a healthy and quick snack option for your family. Air fryers have become a popular cooking tool because they use hot air to cook food instead of lots of oil. This means you get crispy and flavorful meals—like these zucchini boats—without extra grease or unhealthy fats. Plus, cooking in an air fryer helps keep the nutrients in veggies like zucchini, so you can feel good about serving them to your kids.
If you’ve ever wondered about air fryers, rest assured—they’re a great way to make snacks like these tasty zucchini boats in less time while still being healthy. Many families love using air fryers for their convenience and their ability to turn simple ingredients into amazing dishes. So, grab your zucchini, chicken, and buffalo sauce, and try these boats today—they’re sure to be a hit with kids and parents alike!
🧾Related Recipe
If you enjoyed these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats, you’ll love our Air -Fried Bourbon Chicken Skewers!
âť“FAQ
1. Can I make these zucchini boats less spicy for kids?
Yes! Swap buffalo sauce for a mix of BBQ sauce and Greek yogurt—it’s creamy, tangy, and mild. You can also serve the spicy version with a side of ranch or yogurt dip to cool things down.
2. How do I keep the zucchini from turning mushy in the air fryer?
Scoop out the centers gently and pre-salt the boats for 10 minutes, then pat dry. This draws out moisture and helps them stay firm. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for a crisp-tender texture.
3. What’s a fun way to serve these for picky eaters?
Slice the boats into bite-sized “canoes” and top with cheese, shredded chicken, and a drizzle of sauce. Serve with toothpicks or mini forks for a build-your-own plate experience.
