Zucchini with chicken and mozzarella

Stuffed zucchini with chicken and mozzarella - A savory and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

This stuffed zucchini recipe with chicken and mozzarella is an excellent choice for a healthy and delicious meal. Zucchini, a versatile ingredient, offers a pleasant texture and subtle flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and melted cheese. This recipe is not only delicious but also a nutritious option, rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein.

A brief history
Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a vegetable originating from America but has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility. Stuffing vegetables with meat and cheese is a traditional practice in many cultures, ingeniously adding flavor and reducing food waste. This recipe perfectly reflects this tradition, combining simple ingredients to create a refined meal.

Necessary ingredients
- 2 zucchinis
- 6-8 chicken fillets (the tender part from the breast)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons red wine
- 1 clove garlic
- 6 cherry tomatoes
- The flesh of the zucchini
- 2 green onions
- 1 ball of mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon finely grated parmesan
- Salt, pepper, dill
- Olive oil

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and contains plenty of fiber from the zucchini. Additionally, the cherry tomatoes and green onions add essential vitamins, such as vitamin C and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Moreover, mozzarella provides calcium, essential for bone health.

Step by step: Preparing the stuffed zucchinis

Step 1: Preparing the zucchinis
1. Start by washing the zucchinis well under cold running water. Cut them in half lengthwise to obtain equal halves.
2. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the flesh of the zucchini, being careful not to damage the skin. This flesh will be used later in the filling.

Step 2: Boiling the zucchinis
1. Put salted water in a large pot and bring it to a boil.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the zucchini halves and let them boil for 10 minutes. This step will help soften the vegetable, making it easier to fill and cook.

Step 3: Preparing the filling
1. In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped green onions and garlic over medium heat. This will add a delicious caramelized flavor to the filling.
2. Once the onion becomes translucent, add the diced chicken fillets and the previously scooped zucchini flesh.
3. Pour in a cup of water and let everything boil for 10 minutes on high heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Adding aromatic ingredients
1. After 10 minutes, add the tomato paste, quartered cherry tomatoes, wine, chopped dill, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
2. Let the sauce reduce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thicker and more flavorful.

Step 5: Assembling
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) with ventilation.
2. In a baking dish lined with parchment paper and lightly greased with oil, place the boiled zucchini halves.
3. Fill each half with the meat and vegetable mixture, sprinkle grated parmesan on top, then place a ball of mozzarella on each zucchini.

Step 6: Baking
1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella melts and develops a slight golden crust.

Serving
Stuffed zucchini with chicken and mozzarella can be enjoyed both hot and cold. A wonderful idea is to serve them with a garlic sour cream, which will add a note of freshness and perfectly complement the filling's flavor. You can also add a green salad for an extra boost of vitamins.

Variations and tips
- Replace the chicken with turkey for an even leaner option.
- You can add green or black olives for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you prefer a spicy taste, add some chopped chili pepper.
- Instead of mozzarella, you can use feta or goat cheese for a more distinct flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use courgettes instead of zucchini?
Yes, courgettes are an excellent alternative and work just as well in this recipe.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store the leftover stuffed zucchinis?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

Calories
One serving of stuffed zucchini with chicken and mozzarella contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and meat used. This makes this recipe a nutritious and filling option.

I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites! Preparing this meal is not only an enjoyable activity but also a way to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 zucchini (or courgettes) 6 - 8 chicken tenders (the tender part from the breast) 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 tablespoons red wine 1 clove of garlic 6 cherry tomatoes the inside of the zucchini 2 green onion stalks 1 ball of mozzarella 1 tablespoon finely grated parmesan salt pepper oil