If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a delightful snack, these Zesty Zucchini Chicken Bites with Creamy Cilantro Dip are the perfect choice! Packed with flavor and nutrients, these bites combine juicy ground chicken with fresh zucchini and aromatic herbs, served alongside a refreshing cilantro dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a tasty treat, these bites are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound minced chicken (preferably with at least 7% fat content)
- 1-2 medium zucchini squash (about 1½ cups shredded)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- Cooking oil (for frying or baking)
For the Creamy Cilantro Dip:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Zucchini Chicken Bites:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you prefer baking over frying.
- Shred the Zucchini: Using a grater, shred the zucchini. Place the shredded zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded zucchini, minced garlic, chopped chives, salt, black pepper, paprika (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Bites: Using your hands, form the mixture into small bite-sized balls or patties.
- Cooking Options:
- For Frying: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the bites in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the extra oil.
- For Baking: Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush with cooking oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
Preparing the Creamy Cilantro Dip:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and fresh lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Blend the Dip: For a smoother dip, use a blender or food processor to blend the ingredients until smooth.
- Cool: Place the dip in the refrigerator for a minimum of 15 minutes to let the flavors blend together seamlessly before serving.
Conclusion
These Zesty Zucchini Chicken Bites with Creamy Cilantro Dip are a delightful addition to any menu. The combination of tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and savory herbs paired with a tangy cilantro dip is irresistible. Perfect for parties, snacks, or even a light meal, these bites are versatile and delicious. Enjoy your homemade creation and impress your guests with this flavorful dish!