Ingredients
Chicken Zucchini Poppers
- 1 pound ground chicken (at least 7% fat recommended)
- 1-2 medium zucchini squash (about 1½ cups shredded)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons oil for cooking
Cilantro Garlic Dipping Sauce
- 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
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: Combine cilantro, garlic clove, mayonnaise, cottage cheese, and vinegar in a food processor. Blend until smooth and well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to thicken and allow the flavors to meld. Alternatively, finely chop the cilantro and mix all ingredients by hand, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Using a cheese grater, shred the zucchini into small pieces. Place the shredded zucchini on a paper towel, sprinkle lightly with kosher salt, and squeeze to remove excess moisture. This prevents sogginess in the patties.
- Make the Patties: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini with ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped chives, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix thoroughly. Form the mixture into six 3-inch patties.
- Cook the Poppers: Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, cook the chicken patties for about 4 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. If they brown too quickly and are not fully cooked inside, transfer the patties to a preheated 350°F oven for an additional 2 minutes to finish cooking.
- Serve: Serve the chicken zucchini poppers warm with the cilantro garlic dipping sauce either on the side or drizzled on top.
Notes
- Removing excess moisture from zucchini is crucial for crisp patties.
- Ground chicken with at least 7% fat ensures juicy poppers.
- The dipping sauce can be made ahead and stored refrigerated up to 2 days.
- These poppers can be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
- For a lower fat option, reduce or omit the cottage cheese in the dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
