These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a fun and tasty snack! Packed with ground chicken and fresh zucchini, they are both savory and satisfying. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Perfect for a light lunch or a quick snack, I love serving them with some dipping sauce. Trust me, these little bites will disappear fast—there’s always room for another! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken Breast: This is the main protein source. You could use ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option or even ground beef if you’re looking for something richer in flavor.
Zucchini: Shredded zucchini adds moisture and texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can replace it with shredded yellow squash or carrots for a different flavor and color.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely flavor. If you want a dairy-free version, you can use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Almond Flour: Great for gluten-free options! You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or oat flour if you don’t have almond flour on hand. Just adjust the amount as necessary.
Greek Yogurt: For the sauce, Greek yogurt provides creaminess and tang. You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt if you prefer.
How Do I Keep My Zucchini Chicken Poppers from Falling Apart?
A common concern when making zucchini poppers is keeping them intact. Here are some helpful tips:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the shredded zucchini as possible. This prevents the mixture from becoming too wet.
- Using an egg as a binder helps hold everything together. If you’re egg-free, consider using a flaxseed meal substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Be gentle when shaping the patties. Don’t overly compress them; they need some air to cook evenly.
- Cook them on medium heat. If the heat is too high, they may brown too quickly and fall apart.
Using these tips and knowing substitutes makes for a successful and delicious cooking experience with these High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers! Enjoy!
High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken breast
- 1 medium zucchini, shredded and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Herb Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon olive oil for richness
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 10-12 minutes for cooking. So you’re looking at a total of about 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and protein-packed meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, shredded zucchini (make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture!), chopped onion, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Shape the Patties:
With your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get around 8-10 patties, but feel free to make them smaller or larger based on your preference!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently place the patties into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and set on a plate lined with paper towels if needed to absorb excess oil.
4. Make the Creamy Herb Sauce:
While the patties are cooking, you can prepare the creamy herb sauce. In a small food processor or blender, combine the Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste, then add salt and pepper according to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken zucchini poppers hot, topped with a generous dollop of the creamy herb sauce or with it on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious and healthy snack!
These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are not just easy to make, but they’re also packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick meal, snack, or getting your protein fix. Enjoy! 🍽️
FAQ for High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is best for texture, you can use frozen zucchini if it’s all you have. Just make sure to thoroughly thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the mixture.
Can I Prepare the Poppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the patties and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to a day. Just make sure to cover them tightly. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just cook them from frozen, allowing a few extra minutes in the skillet.
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftover cooked poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick snack.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, or you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer. Both will work well to bind the ingredients.
