These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty bite-sized snack! Made with ground chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re packed with flavor and protein.
Perfect for game day or a quick snack, they’re super easy to whip up. I love dipping them in some zesty sauce—it makes them even more fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of your poppers, offering a lean protein source. If you prefer, turkey or lean beef can be used as substitutes. I often opt for the ground chicken for its mild flavor.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition. If zucchini isn’t available, try using finely grated carrots or yellow squash. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice cheesy flavor. You can swap it with pecorino romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. I like using freshly grated cheese for more flavor.
Almond Flour: This keeps the poppers gluten-free. Regular breadcrumbs work well, too! I sometimes mix both for added texture.
Egg: It acts as a binder for the mixture. If you need a vegan alternative, try using ground flaxseed mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to substitute one egg.
How Do I Ensure My Poppers Stay Moist and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken zucchini poppers juicy and tasty, there are a few tricks. First, make sure to squeeze out the extra water from the grated zucchini. Too much moisture can make the batter soggy. Also, do not overcook them in the skillet; you’re only looking for a golden crust before baking.
- Keep the skillet on medium heat for even cooking—too high may burn the outside before the inside is done.
- When baking, place the poppers on a parchment-lined sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
These techniques help enhance the texture and flavor of your poppers, ensuring they are a hit!
How to Make High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 1 pound ground chicken breast
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Your favorite dipping sauce: marinara or yogurt-based sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well with your hands or a spatula until fully blended. It should be a nice, thick mixture!
3. Shape the Poppers:
Now, scoop out small portions of the mixture—about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each. Shape them into bite-sized poppers or little patties. They don’t have to be perfect—just make sure they hold together!
4. Cook Them Up:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the poppers in batches. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This gives them a delicious crispy exterior.
5. Bake to Finish:
After browning, transfer the poppers to your prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked through. (Make sure their internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C!)
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your yummy poppers warm with marinara sauce or a tasty yogurt dip for that extra zing!
Enjoy these healthy, protein-packed bites any time you’re looking for a satisfying snack!
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. It offers a similar texture and flavor, plus it’s still a healthy, protein-packed option.
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave—oven reheating helps maintain their crispy texture.
Can I Make These Poppers Gluten-Free?
Yes, just use almond flour or a certified gluten-free breadcrumb alternative to keep this recipe gluten-free. It will still deliver on flavor and texture!
What Can I Serve with the Poppers?
These poppers pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. You can also serve them with a yogurt-based sauce, garlic aioli, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal!
