These High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a tasty way to enjoy veggies and chicken. Made with tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and spices, they’re perfectly baked for a crispy finish!
They’re great as a snack or a party treat. I love dipping them in my favorite sauce, and they’re so easy to whip up—what’s not to love about healthy bites that taste amazing?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for moisture and flavor. If you don’t have zucchini, shredded carrots or yellow squash can work as good alternatives.
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is lean and high in protein. Ground turkey can also substitute well if that’s what you have on hand, or for a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh or chickpeas.
Cheese: I recommend mozzarella for the melty goodness, but you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar can add a nice sharpness, and if you’re dairy-free, a plant-based cheese can be a great choice.
Almond Flour: Great for low-carb diets, but if that’s not available, regular all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs would work. If you’re gluten-free, ensure you choose certified gluten-free options.
How Do I Prevent My Poppers from Being Watery?
One common issue with zucchini poppers is excess moisture, which can make them soggy. To avoid this, it’s crucial to drain the grated zucchini well!
- Grate the zucchini and then place it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Twist the towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible—think of it as a workout!
- Ensure the mixture is not too wet before baking; it should hold together well but not be overly sticky.
What’s the Best Way to Bake for Crispiness?
For poppers that are crispy on the outside, a little oil goes a long way. Here’s how:
- Use olive oil spray or brush them lightly with oil before baking.
- Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- If desired, broil them for the last minute or two for an extra crunch—just watch them closely so they don’t burn!
Enjoy making these delicious and healthy chicken zucchini poppers! They’re fun, easy, and great for any occasion.
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 shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for binding and flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup almond flour (or regular flour for less low-carb)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil spray or 1-2 tbsp olive oil for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 25 minutes for baking, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to make a healthy snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). You can line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater, and then place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This step is important to keep your poppers from becoming soggy.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, grated zucchini, mozzarella cheese (if using), Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, almond flour, eggs, salt, black pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and parsley. Mix everything together until well combined. You want a nice, even mixture.
4. Shape the Poppers:
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or poppers. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking.
5. Add Oil for Crispiness:
Lightly spray or brush the tops of the poppers with olive oil. This will help them crisp up and turn golden brown in the oven.
6. Bake Time:
Bake the chicken zucchini poppers for 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through the cooking time to achieve even browning. They should be golden brown and fully cooked when done.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the poppers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. These tasty bites are best enjoyed warm!
8. Dipping Sauces:
Serve the poppers with your favorite dipping sauces. Marinara, ranch, or even a spicy mayo make fantastic accompaniments!
Enjoy your nutritious, high-protein chicken zucchini poppers! They’re not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even ground beef for the chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different meats may change the flavor slightly.
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the poppers a few hours in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You might need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Freeze These Poppers?
Yes, these poppers freeze well! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an extra 5-10 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them.
