These Savory Italian Chicken Poppers are the perfect bite-sized treats for a healthy and flavorful meal. Bursting with Italian herbs, fresh vegetables, and a hint of garlic, these poppers make for a delicious appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. Ideal for those following a Whole30, Paleo, or AIP diet, these chicken poppers are both nourishing and satisfying. With a blend of ground chicken, zucchini, spinach, and fresh herbs, they bring all the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine into one convenient bite. Let’s get started on making these irresistible chicken poppers!
Ingredients:
- 1 small zucchini, ends removed
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 tbsp fresh basil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp coconut flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Remove the moisture from the grated zucchini by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and firmly pressing to extract the liquid.
- This step is important to prevent the poppers from becoming too watery.
- Finely chop the spinach, basil, and parsley.
Mix the Chicken Poppers:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, chopped spinach, basil, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, sea salt, black pepper (if using), nutritional yeast, and coconut flour.
- Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The blend needs to be slightly damp yet sturdy enough to maintain its form.
Form the Poppers:
- Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture and roll it into a small ball or patty shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, making sure the poppers are uniform in size for even cooking.
Cook the Poppers:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken poppers in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook the poppers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the inside reaches a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for proper doneness.
- If preferred, you can also bake the poppers by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and baking in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve:
- Serve the Savory Italian Chicken Poppers warm, either as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main dish with a side of vegetables or salad.
- These poppers can also be enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack or packed for a healthy meal on the go.
Conclusion:
These Savory Italian Chicken Poppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients that make them a guilt-free treat. The combination of ground chicken, fresh herbs, and vegetables creates a flavor-packed bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping, or just looking for a healthy and satisfying dish, these poppers are sure to become a favorite.