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These Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins are a savory, high-protein snack that’s perfect for any time of the day. The combination of shredded chicken, melted cheddar, and fresh zucchini makes them a flavorful and nutritious option. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a side dish, these muffins will be a hit in your kitchen!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
¼ cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for greasing the muffin tin)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or use muffin liners.
Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent soggy muffins.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, almond flour, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling them almost to the top. Distribute the mixture evenly to ensure even cooking.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients

Calories: 145 kcal per muffin
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 260mg

Why Choose Savory Muffins?

Muffins are typically thought of as sweet treats, but savory muffins are becoming an increasingly popular option for those who want a different take on the classic snack. They provide the same convenience and portability of regular muffins, but with a savory flavor profile that makes them perfect for a wider range of occasions. Unlike their sugary counterparts, savory muffins are filling and can easily be customized to suit a variety of dietary preferences.

Savory muffins like these Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins are versatile, making them suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re preparing for a busy day or need a snack on the go, savory muffins offer a balanced meal in a convenient, handheld form. The combination of chicken, cheese, and zucchini gives these muffins a unique and satisfying flavor, while the high protein content makes them an excellent choice for those looking to boost their intake of essential nutrients.

A Delicious Way to Use Zucchini

Zucchini is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding not only flavor but also moisture to the muffins. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory baked goods to casseroles, and it’s known for its mild taste and high water content. In these muffins, zucchini provides a slight earthiness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken and cheese.

One of the challenges when incorporating zucchini into baked goods is its high water content, which can make the muffins soggy if not handled properly. In this recipe, the zucchini is grated and its moisture is squeezed out using a clean towel or paper towels, preventing the muffins from becoming too wet. This ensures that the zucchini maintains its delicate texture without compromising the overall consistency of the muffins.

In addition to its flavor, zucchini is packed with nutrients. It’s a low-calorie vegetable that’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Incorporating zucchini into these muffins boosts their nutritional value, making them not only tasty but also healthful.

Shredded Chicken: A Protein-Packed Ingredient

The shredded chicken in these muffins provides a substantial amount of lean protein, making them a satisfying snack or meal. Chicken is a popular source of protein due to its versatility and ability to pair well with a variety of flavors. In this recipe, the chicken adds a hearty, savory element to the muffins, while its high protein content helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance. For those looking to increase their protein intake, these muffins provide a convenient and tasty way to do so. Each muffin contains around 9 grams of protein, making it a great choice for a post-workout snack, a quick breakfast, or a filling lunch.

The chicken used in these muffins can be pre-cooked and shredded, making it a great option for using up leftovers. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient choice, but you can also cook your own chicken breast and shred it for this recipe. By using shredded chicken, you also ensure that the meat blends seamlessly into the muffin mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Cheddar and Parmesan: The Perfect Cheese Duo

The combination of shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese is what gives these muffins their creamy, cheesy flavor. Cheddar cheese is rich, sharp, and melts beautifully, providing the muffins with a gooey center that adds indulgence and depth of flavor. Parmesan cheese, on the other hand, is slightly nutty and salty, bringing an extra layer of savory taste to the muffins.

Cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds fat and richness to the muffins, making them more satisfying. In addition, cheese contributes calcium and other important nutrients, making these muffins a good source of dairy in your diet. The blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese ensures that the muffins are full of flavor without being overwhelming, striking the perfect balance between richness and lightness.

Almond Flour: A Low-Carb Alternative

For those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, almond flour is an excellent substitute for traditional flour. Made from ground almonds, almond flour is lower in carbs and higher in healthy fats and protein compared to regular flour. It gives the muffins a slightly nutty flavor while maintaining a light and fluffy texture.

In addition to being low in carbs, almond flour is also a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber, which contributes to its health benefits. Using almond flour in this recipe helps keep the muffins gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. By incorporating almond flour, these muffins remain moist and tender, without compromising on flavor or texture.

The Baking Process: A Quick and Easy Solution

One of the best things about these Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins is that they are incredibly easy to make. The recipe doesn’t require any complicated steps or long preparation times. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a batch of these savory muffins ready in about 30 minutes.

After grating the zucchini and squeezing out any excess moisture, you simply combine it with the chicken, cheese, eggs, and dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. The mixture is then spooned into a muffin tin and baked until golden brown and firm. The result is a batch of perfectly baked muffins with a crispy exterior and a moist, cheesy center. This quick and easy preparation makes these muffins an ideal option for busy mornings or weeknight meals.

A Versatile Snack or Meal Option

These Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day. They make an excellent breakfast when paired with a side of fruit or a light salad. For lunch or dinner, they can be served as a side dish alongside a soup or salad, adding a savory element to your meal. You can also enjoy them as a snack or appetizer at parties, where they’ll be sure to disappear quickly.

Additionally, these muffins can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add chili flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper to the mix. You could also experiment with different cheeses or add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, allowing you to make adjustments based on what you have available or your dietary preferences.

Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers

These muffins are perfect for meal prepping. You can bake a batch ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, and enjoy them throughout the week. They can be eaten cold or reheated in the microwave, making them a convenient option for busy days when you need a quick snack or meal.

If you have leftovers, these muffins store well in the fridge for several days, or you can freeze them for longer storage. Simply place the muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes to warm them up.

Conclusion

Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins are a savory, high-protein snack that combines the goodness of chicken, cheese, and zucchini into a delicious, portable muffin. With their cheesy center, crispy exterior, and balanced flavors, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are easy to make, customizable, and ideal for meal prepping, making them a convenient option for busy weeks. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a savory side dish, these muffins will become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.