As a kid, I only liked zucchini cooked one way—in a chocolate cake. Trust me, it’s delicious! While that’s a tasty way to get your veggies in, I think all the sugar and butter somehow cancel out the health benefits of the zucchini.
Now that I’m an adult, I’ve refined my taste buds to the point where I can eat vegetables even when they aren’t hidden in a cake. In fact, I’d even go so far as to say I enjoy them. Whether you’re already a fan of vegetables, or still on the fence, this garlic chicken and zucchini recipe will win your heart and your taste buds.
Garlic Chicken and Zucchini
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Calories: 344 / Fat: 11g / Protein: 56g / Carbs: 4g
INGREDIENTS
- 4 Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 2 Zucchini, Chopped
- 3 Garlic Cloves, Minced
- 4 teaspoons Olive Oil
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 375° F
- Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet
- Spread 3 teaspoons olive oil and half the garlic on the chicken
- Bake, uncovered until done (about 30 minutes)
- While chicken is baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining olive oil
- Add zucchini and the remaining garlic to pan and sauté until tender
- Toss with black pepper and serve with chicken
Is Zucchini a Fruit or Vegetable?
Believe it or not, zucchinis are technically fruits. That’s right, zucchini and other squash are actually classified as fruits because of the type of flowering plants they come from. While that’s true, their savory flavor leads us to cook and prepare them like vegetables.
How Nutritious Are Zucchinis?
Unlike most fruits, zucchinis are low in sugar. Not only that, but they are full of vitamins and minerals, and low on carbs. With all the nutrients they contain, it’s no wonder people use them in place of noodles. But wait, there’s more! Zucchini is also rich in antioxidants, can aid in weight loss, is good for your vision, and boasts many other vegetable-like benefits. Plus, the fact that zucchini is low on calories, but high in water and fiber content means it will help you feel full sooner, and stay satisfied longer.
Can Zucchini be Eaten Uncooked?
Most people choose to eat sautéed zucchini, grilled zucchini, baked zucchini, zucchini noodles (also known as zoodles), or some other form of cooked skillet zucchini. What most people don’t realize is that you can also eat zucchini raw. It’s great cut up in a salad, or eaten plain or with dip. Cooking zucchini does reduce some of the vitamin content, but all in all, the health benefits are about the same. In its raw form, it will have fewer calories when compared with sautéed zucchini calories, only because sautéing often means adding oil or butter.
What Meats Can You Eat on a Keto Diet?
There are actually a lot of Keto approved meats. Beef, chicken, and lamb are all approved. Even bacon and hot dogs are on the list of Keto meats. We love recipes like this baked garlic chicken because the combination of the chicken breast, zucchini, and garlic is flavorful, healthy, and low on calories.
What’s the Difference Between Low Carb and Keto?
Sometimes it’s tricky to tell the difference between low carb and keto diets. Especially because some recipes fit into both categories. At a quick glance low carb meals center around chicken, fish, and vegetables, while Keto meals often include more beef, eggs, and cheese. We’ve put together an overview in this article on the difference between low carb and keto meal plans. Or you can read our Ultimate Guide to Understanding Keto Vs Low Carb Diets to get an even better understanding. At the end of the day though, Keto and low carb are both great options, it’s simply a matter of choosing the plan that best fits your lifestyle.
If you enjoy this sautéed chicken and zucchini recipe, you may also enjoy our recipes for Zucchini Noodles with Kale Pesto and Chicken Breast and Keto Friendly Garlic Chicken with Roasted Cauliflower. Plus, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more great recipes, tips, and Xyngular product announcements. And don’t forget to tag us. We’d love to see what you’ve got cooking!
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