These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a great snack or meal! With ground chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re not just healthy but also super tasty. Just pop them in the oven for a crispy finish!
Honestly, who knew eating healthy could be so fun? They’re like tiny bites of joy! I love serving them with a dipping sauce; it makes every bite even better. Give them a try, you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini keeps the poppers moist. If you’ve got squash on hand, it can work too! Don’t forget to squeeze out the moisture; this step helps prevent sogginess.
Ground Chicken: Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor or a slightly leaner option. Just ensure it’s not too fatty to keep the texture right.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Almond Flour: This adds a nice texture, but you can use breadcrumbs or whole wheat flour if you have them. Keep in mind that using breadcrumbs may absorb a bit more moisture.
Egg: If you’re egg-free, mashed banana or applesauce can work as a binding agent, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do You Ensure Your Poppers Are Crispy and Not Soggy?
The key to crispy poppers lies in how you handle the zucchini. Be thorough when draining it. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini and then wrap it tightly in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze firmly to release as much liquid as possible. This helps maintain the right texture when baking.
Another trick? A light spray or brush of olive oil will encourage browning. Don’t skip this, as it truly enhances the crispiness!
High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken breast
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and roughly 15-20 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and nutritious option for snacks or appetizers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the poppers will bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis and then place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze tightly to remove as much moisture as possible. This is a crucial step to keep your poppers from being soggy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Shape the Poppers:
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place these evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Add Olive Oil:
To help your poppers become golden and crispy, lightly brush or spray them with olive oil before baking.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the poppers are cooked through and have a nice golden brown color.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. They are best served warm!
8. Enjoy with Dipping Sauce:
Serve these tasty poppers with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or a spicy mayo for an extra kick!
Enjoy your healthy, high-protein zucchini chicken poppers! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Different Ground Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even pork. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so ensure it’s cooked through.
How Can I Make These Poppers Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using almond flour as specified or substituting with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be sure to check the labels on pre-packaged items to confirm they are gluten-free!
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the poppers a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake them and then reheat in the oven or microwave when needed. Just add a few extra minutes to reheating time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through, or microwave for a quick snack!
