These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty and healthy snack! Made with ground chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re perfect for satisfying your hunger without the guilt.
I love serving these at parties! They’re like little bites of joy that almost make you forget you’re eating veggies. Plus, they are super easy to whip up! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are great for adding moisture and nutrition. If you’re out of zucchini, shredded carrots or even chopped spinach can work as alternatives, giving you a different flavor while staying healthy.
Ground Chicken: Lean and high in protein, ground chicken is perfect here. You can swap it for ground turkey for a slightly different taste, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Cheese: The recipe calls for mozzarella for a melty texture. If you’re looking for something with more flavor, try sharp cheddar or pepper jack. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese shreds.
Almond Flour: This adds a nice crunch and helps bind the poppers. If you don’t have almond flour, regular breadcrumbs or oat flour can make a good substitute. Just keep in mind that oat flour may slightly change the taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Poppers Hold Together?
A common challenge with poppers is keeping them from falling apart. The key is in draining the zucchini well. When you squeeze out the extra moisture, it prevents the mixture from becoming too soggy.
- Grate the zucchini finely and use a clean towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure they bind well. The egg and almond flour also work as binders.
Keep an eye on the oven time; if they’re a bit too soft after baking, just put them back in for a few more minutes until they firm up!
High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken breast
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup almond flour or whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at around 40–45 minutes before you can enjoy your tasty poppers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is super important, as removing excess liquid helps the poppers hold their shape when cooking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, drained zucchini, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Preheat the Oven:
While you’re mixing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
4. Shape the Poppers:
Using your hands or a spoon, take a portion of the mixture and form it into small bite-sized poppers or patties. Place them neatly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add Olive Oil:
To help the poppers brown nicely, lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over the top of each one. This will give them a lovely golden color as they cook.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip the poppers halfway through to ensure they’re golden brown all around. They are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once finished baking, take the poppers out of the oven and let them cool slightly. If you like, garnish them with some fresh parsley or basil to add a nice touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or tzatziki. Enjoy your high-protein chicken zucchini poppers as a delightful snack, appetizer, or even a light meal!
Happy cooking! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey, lean beef, or even ground pork if you prefer. Each option will bring its own flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the popper mixture and shape them into patties in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge to the oven.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Poppers?
These poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Classic choices include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or tzatziki sauce. You could also try a spicy aioli or a sweet chili sauce for a different twist!
