These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a fun and tasty snack! They combine tender chicken and fresh zucchini, all packed into little popper bites that are both healthy and delicious.
They’re perfect for munching any time of the day. I love serving them with a zesty dipping sauce; it makes every bite even better! You might even want to make an extra batch—trust me, they’ll disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: It’s essential for keeping the poppers moist without adding too many carbs. If you can’t find zucchini, try yellow squash. Both work well, but zucchini has a milder taste.
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein source. You can substitute it with ground turkey or even lean ground beef if that’s what you have. Just know that different meats may change the flavor slightly.
Almond Flour: This ingredient helps bind the mixture and adds some healthy fats. If you’re allergic to nuts, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes can work as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Moisture Out?
Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial for achieving the right texture. Too much moisture can make the poppers soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- After grating the zucchini, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Wrap the grated zucchini in the towel and twist to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. You’ll be surprised at how much comes out!
Doing this step makes a big difference in the final texture of your poppers, keeping them firm and flavorful.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Poppers?
Cooking these poppers properly is key to tasty results. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium heat before adding oil or poppers; this ensures they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each popper enough space to brown nicely. Cook in batches if needed.
- Turn them gently to avoid breaking; they should be golden brown and cooked through for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
These steps can help you achieve that beautiful golden color and crisp texture that makes these poppers so irresistible!
How to Make High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Cooking:
- Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious poppers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a bowl. Then, take a clean kitchen towel or a cheesecloth and place the grated zucchini inside. Twist and squeeze it tightly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is important to prevent sogginess in your poppers!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, drained zucchini, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if you want some heat), and chopped parsley. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together.
3. Form the Poppers:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and form them into balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches across. Place them on a plate as you go. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking!
4. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using olive oil spray, spray the pan evenly. Allow it to get hot—this ensures your poppers will brown nicely!
5. Cook the Poppers:
Carefully place the poppers in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook in batches. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. They should feel firm to the touch.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the poppers are done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any extra oil. This keeps them crispy and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm chicken zucchini poppers right away with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli. Enjoy these tasty bites as a snack or appetizer!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your high-protein, healthy chicken zucchini poppers!
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Other Ground Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even lean ground beef for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat you choose.
How Should I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness, or microwave them until heated through.
What Can I Use in Place of Almond Flour?
If you don’t have almond flour on hand, feel free to use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative. They will help bind the mixture and maintain texture.
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to form the poppers just before you’re ready to cook them for the best results!
