Chicken, Cheese, and Zucchini Muffins

Chicken, cheese, and zucchini muffins are a savory and wholesome option for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. Packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, these muffins are perfect for on-the-go meals or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A healthy and delicious way to use zucchini.
• High in protein and packed with flavor.
• Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
• Kid-friendly and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
• Great as a snack, lunchbox addition, or light dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken (shredded or finely chopped)
• Zucchini (grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture)
• Eggs
• Cheddar cheese (grated)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Milk
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or oregano)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any optional herbs.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the milk and olive oil until combined.
4. Combine the Batter:
   • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Incorporate Add-Ins:
   • Gently fold in the grated zucchini, cooked chicken, and cheeses. Mix until evenly distributed.
6. Fill Muffin Tin:
   • Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full.
7. Bake:
   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for a veggie-packed alternative.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Different cheeses: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, feta, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
• Herbaceous touch: Incorporate fresh dill, chives, or basil for a burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

No, the chicken should be pre-cooked before adding it to the batter. Rotisserie chicken works great.

2. How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?

Grease the muffin tin well or use non-stick paper liners for easy removal.

3. Can I make mini muffins instead?

Yes, use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time to 10–15 minutes.

4. How do I remove excess moisture from the zucchini?

Grate the zucchini, then place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

5. Can I substitute the zucchini?

Yes, grated carrots or finely chopped spinach can be used instead of zucchini.

6. What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Shred cooked chicken with two forks or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for quick shredding.

7. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.

8. Can I add other vegetables to the muffins?

Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers, onions, or corn are great additions.

9. Are these muffins suitable for toddlers?

Yes, they’re a great finger food for toddlers. Adjust the seasoning to suit their palate.

10. Can I serve these muffins cold?

Yes, they taste great cold and make a convenient grab-and-go snack.

Conclusion

Chicken, cheese, and zucchini muffins are a versatile and delicious option for any time of day. Packed with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, they’re a nutritious choice that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe for a savory treat that everyone will love!

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