Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

Name: Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Creamy Cilantro Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 cup grated zucchini, squeezed of excess moisture; 1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste

Isabella

📖Life, Love, and Gastronomy 📖

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Looking for a flavorful twist on your appetizer menu? These Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Creamy Cilantro Sauce are a perfect blend of savory chicken, fresh zucchini, and zesty cilantro. They’re not just delicious—they’re also easy to make and healthier than traditional fried appetizers. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Zucchini Poppers:

1 lb ground chicken

1 cup grated zucchini, squeezed of excess moisture

1/4 cup almond flour (or breadcrumbs)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Cilantro Sauce:

1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tbsp lime juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Chicken Zucchini Poppers:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated zucchini, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized patties (poppers) and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the poppers for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.

Prepare the Creamy Cilantro Sauce:

While the poppers are baking, mix together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Serve the warm Chicken Zucchini Poppers with the Creamy Cilantro Sauce either drizzled over the top or served on the side for dipping.

Enjoy this delightful appetizer with friends and family!

Serving Tips:

Presentation Matters: Arrange the Chicken Zucchini Poppers on a platter with a garnish of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime for an appealing look.

Dipping Delight: Serve the Creamy Cilantro Sauce in small bowls or ramekins alongside the poppers for easy dipping.

Warm and Fresh: These poppers are best served warm from the oven to maintain their crisp texture and juicy interior.

Garnish Galore: Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of paprika over the poppers before serving for an extra flavor boost.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Zucchini Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the poppers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing (Optional): If you plan to freeze them, arrange the unbaked poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 1-2 months. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Sauce Storage: Store any leftover Creamy Cilantro Sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir well before serving again.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan White Sauce

FAQs:

Can I use something else instead of almond flour or breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute almond flour with regular breadcrumbs or even panko breadcrumbs if you prefer. This substitution will alter the texture slightly but will still yield tasty poppers.

Can I grill these Chicken Zucchini Poppers instead of baking them?

Certainly! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the poppers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How can I make the Creamy Cilantro Sauce dairy-free?

To make the sauce dairy-free, use a plain dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative made from coconut or almond milk. Adjust the seasoning and lime juice to balance the flavors according to your preference.

Can I prepare the Chicken Zucchini Poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture for the poppers ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Shape them into patties just before baking to maintain the texture. This makes them a convenient option for parties or busy weeknights.