Description
Chicken Zucchini Poppers are a delicious, healthy choice that combines lean ground chicken and fresh zucchini, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as an enticing appetizer. These gluten-free poppers are packed with protein and veggies, delivering a satisfying taste in every bite. The addition of a creamy cilantro sauce adds a delightful twist, ensuring they’re a hit at any gathering. With minimal prep time and versatile serving options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground chicken (at least 7% fat)
- 1–2 medium zucchini (about 1½ cups shredded)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for cooking
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 small garlic clove (or more depending on preference)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
Instructions
- To make the cilantro cream sauce, blend cilantro, garlic, mayonnaise, cottage cheese, and vinegar in a food processor until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini with ground chicken, minced garlic, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into six 3-inch patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook patties for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with the creamy cilantro sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popper (45g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg