These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty treat filled with ground chicken and fresh zucchini! They are baked to perfection, giving you a crispy outside and juicy inside.
These poppers are a hit for snacks or parties! I love how easy they are to make, and they are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. Plus, they pack a healthy punch! 💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! Ground turkey could be a great alternative if you want to cut down on fat or enjoy a different flavor. I love using chicken for its lean protein content.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture and helps bind the poppers. If zucchini isn’t in season, you can replace it with grated carrots or even shredded squash for a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: This gives a lovely flavor. Feel free to swap it with mozzarella or cheddar if you want a creamier texture, but it may change the overall flavor a bit!
Almond Flour: This keeps the poppers gluten-free and adds a nice crunch. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. If you’re vegan or allergic to eggs, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a similar binding effect.
How Do You Ensure the Poppers Are Moist and Flavorful?
The key to juicy poppers is properly draining the zucchini before mixing. If there’s too much moisture, they can turn soggy. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Twist the towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- This simple step ensures your poppers have the right texture—crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Also, don’t skip on seasoning! The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes gives delicious flavor. Taste the mixture before forming into balls to see if you’d like to adjust any seasonings.
Happy cooking! Enjoy your delicious and nutritious chicken zucchini poppers!
How to Make High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Baking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for baking or drizzling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total of about 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delicious poppers! It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, get your oven warmed up by preheating it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, gather your ground chicken, drained zucchini, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you love a little heat!). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be shy—get in there with your hands for best results!
3. Shape the Poppers:
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into little bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each popper evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Add a Crisping Touch:
Now, lightly brush or drizzle the tops of your poppers with olive oil. This will help them become nice and golden brown as they bake. Yum!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to turn the poppers halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and cooked all the way through (the internal temperature should hit 165°F/74°C).
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the poppers cool for a short while. Garnish them with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chicken zucchini poppers warm with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara, ranch, or tzatziki are all excellent choices!
Enjoy your healthy, high-protein chicken zucchini poppers! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a fun way to sneak in those veggies!
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and can result in a similar taste and texture. Just ensure it’s cooked to the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute depending on your microwave’s power.
Can I Make These Poppers Gluten-Free?
Yes! Using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs makes this recipe gluten-free. Just be sure to check that any additional ingredients, like sauces, are also gluten-free!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Poppers?
These poppers are versatile! They taste fantastic with marinara, ranch, tzatziki, or even a spicy sriracha sauce for an extra kick!
