These tasty High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a fun twist on snacking! They’re made with lean chicken and fresh zucchini, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Seriously, who knew healthy could be this fun? I love popping these in the oven and enjoying them hot and crispy. They make a great snack or even a meal on busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrition to these poppers. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or even finely shredded carrots for a different flavor and color.
Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken is used for a high-protein option. You can swap it for ground turkey or even use ground beef if you prefer a richer taste. Just be mindful of the fat content!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives the poppers a nice salty kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Almond Flour: I prefer almond flour for its low-carb benefits, but whole wheat breadcrumbs work just as well if you’re not concerned with carbs. Regular breadcrumbs can also be a good substitute!
Fresh Parsley: This herb adds freshness to the mix. Feel free to swap it with other herbs like cilantro or even basil for a different taste.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Poppers?
Getting the perfect texture is essential for these poppers. Squeezing out excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial. It helps avoid soggy poppers!
- After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then twist and squeeze to remove as much water as possible.
- Ensure your oven is preheated and that the poppers are spaced out on the baking sheet so they can crisp up all around.
- Lightly spraying them with olive oil can also help achieve that lovely golden color and crunch!
High Protein Chicken Zucchini Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour or whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Olive oil spray or 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for snacking or serving as a meal!
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 and become crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini (make sure it’s well-drained), ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. It’s okay if the mixture is a little sticky!
3. Form the Poppers:
Using your hands or a small scoop, take portions of the mixture and form them into small, bite-sized poppers. Place each popper on the prepared baking sheet with some space in between to allow for even baking.
4. Add Olive Oil:
Lightly spray or brush the top of the poppers with olive oil. This step helps them get that beautiful golden-brown color and crispiness while baking!
5. Bake the Poppers:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the poppers are cooked through and golden brown. For even crispness, you can flip them halfway through the baking time.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, take the poppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help them hold their shape and make them easier to handle.
7. Enjoy with Dipping Sauce:
Serve your delicious high-protein chicken zucchini poppers with your favorite dipping sauce like spicy aioli, salsa, or a low-fat yogurt dip for added flavor. Enjoy!
These poppers are not just healthy, but they’re packed with protein and flavor. Enjoy your tasty creations!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Ground Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground chicken for a lean option, you can substitute it with ground turkey, lean pork, or even ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and fat content may vary slightly.
How Can I Make These Poppers Gluten-Free?
To make these poppers gluten-free, simply use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, or any other gluten-free alternative like rice flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always double-check labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy!
Can I Freeze These Poppers?
Yes! You can freeze the raw poppers before baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
