These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty treat with a crunch! Packed with chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re great for a snack or appetizer.
I love how easy they are to make! Just mix the ingredients, pop them in the oven, and you have a delicious dish. Plus, they’re healthy—can’t beat that! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. If you can’t find zucchini, shredded carrots or yellow squash can be great substitutes.
Ground Chicken: For a lean option, ground chicken breast is perfect. You can swap in ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken if that’s what you have.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely cheesy flavor. If you need a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast instead, which gives a similar taste.
Almond Flour: I like using almond flour for a low-carb option, but regular breadcrumbs work well for a more traditional texture. If you’re gluten-free, make sure your breadcrumbs or flour are certified gluten-free.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan or egg-free, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
Removing moisture from zucchini is key to keeping your poppers from being soggy. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze the towel tightly to remove excess moisture; you’ll be surprised how much liquid comes out!
Doing this step ensures your poppers are nice and firm instead of mushy when baked. Definitely a game-changer! 🥒
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
- 1/2 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs for less low-carb)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to whip up a delicious, healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your poppers will bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This is a really important step because it helps keep your poppers from getting soggy!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, squeezed zucchini, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Your hands are the best tool for this job!
4. Form the Poppers:
Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized poppers and place them on your prepared baking sheet. It’s fun to make them into little shapes!
5. Get Ready to Bake:
Lightly spray or brush the poppers with olive oil to help them brown nicely while baking. This gives them a wonderful crispy texture.
6. Bake Them Up:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking. They’ll be ready when they’re golden brown and cooked through!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy these tasty poppers as a healthy snack or appetizer!
These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are not only nutritious but also super delightful. They’re packed with flavor and goodness—perfect for any time of day!
FAQ: High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be great alternatives to ground chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave if you’re short on time!
Can I Make These Poppers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the poppers ahead of time! Store them on a baking sheet covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking them straight from the fridge.
Can I Freeze the Poppers?
Definitely! Shape the poppers and freeze them before baking. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They should be good for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for an extra 5-10 minutes, adding time as necessary until fully cooked.
Feel free to get creative and enjoy experimenting with flavors! Happy cooking!
