These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are fun and tasty! They mix ground chicken with fresh zucchini, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer!
I love how easy these are to make. You can whip them up in no time, and they fit perfectly into a busy day. Plus, they’re a great way to sneak in some veggies! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of the poppers, providing protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or even ground beef if you prefer. If you want a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and texture. If you don’t have zucchini available, shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers can work well too. Just make sure to squeeze out moisture.
Almond Flour: It helps bind the ingredients together. If you’re nut-free, use all-purpose flour, oat flour, or even breadcrumbs. For gluten-free, stick with almond or coconut flour.
Greek Yogurt: This is essential for the dipping sauce, providing creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, use a dairy-free yogurt. Sour cream is another tasty alternative.
How Do I Keep My Poppers from Being Soggy?
Great question! Sogginess is a common issue with zucchini recipes. The key steps are:
- Grate the zucchini and then squeeze out excess moisture using a towel or cheesecloth. This is crucial for keeping the patties firm.
- Consider mixing in a bit more almond flour if the mixture still seems too wet. The right balance will help keep your poppers together.
Taking these steps will ensure your chicken zucchini poppers are crispy on the outside and moist but structured on the inside! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and drained
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or coconut flour)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious poppers! It’s perfect for a quick snack or healthy dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Begin by grating the zucchini with a box grater. Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is super important to avoid soggy poppers!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, drained zucchini, almond flour, egg, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. It’s time to get your hands a little messy! Mix everything until well combined.
3. Shape the Poppers:
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and form them into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure they are packed well to hold together while cooking!
4. Cook the Poppers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken zucchini poppers in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Yum!
5. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the poppers are cooking, whip up the creamy cilantro dipping sauce. In a blender or food processor, blend together the Greek yogurt, cilantro leaves, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the poppers are cooked, place them on a serving plate and drizzle or serve the creamy cilantro dipping sauce on the side. Dive in and enjoy these tasty, healthy, high protein chicken zucchini poppers!
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that turkey might be slightly leaner, so adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them well with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Freeze These Poppers?
Certainly! You can freeze the uncooked poppers for up to 2 months. Just lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
