Zucchini Chicken Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Poppers
01 -
1–2 zucchini squash, medium-sized (yields about 1½ cups grated)
02 -
1 pound ground chicken (stick with at least 7% fat)
03 -
2 minced garlic cloves
04 -
A couple of tablespoons of fresh chives, finely chopped
05 -
A pinch of salt (about 1/2 teaspoon kosher)
06 -
1–2 tablespoons of oil for frying
07 -
A dash of ground black pepper (around 1/4 teaspoon)
→ For the Creamy Cilantro Sauce
08 -
A small garlic clove (add more if you like it garlicky)
09 -
1 tablespoon of cottage cheese
10 -
1/3 cup mayo
11 -
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
12 -
1 tablespoon plain white vinegar
13 -
Season with black pepper and salt to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Use a food processor to mix cilantro, mayo, minced garlic, vinegar, and cottage cheese until it looks smooth. Chill it for half an hour to thicken and get the flavors all mingled. Want an easier option? Just chop the cilantro finely and blend everything by hand. Sprinkle in salt and pepper last.
02 -
Shred the zucchini squash with a grater, spread it over a paper towel, and add a tiny sprinkle of kosher salt. Squeeze out the liquid—it’s important for the recipe!
03 -
In a big bowl, toss together the zucchini, ground chicken, garlic, chives, salt, and black pepper. With your hands, shape the mixture into six patties, each about 3 inches wide.
04 -
Heat some oil in a large frying pan (nonstick or cast iron work great) over medium heat. Fry each patty for around 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. If they brown but still aren’t fully done, bake them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F.
05 -
Serve right away with the dipping sauce on the side, or drizzle some of the sauce on top of each patty.
# Notes:
01 -
Run out of chives? Green onions will work fine.
02 -
Chicken thighs make juicier patties than chicken breasts. If you prefer breasts, choose a slightly fatty option like 93/7% fat.
03 -
Skip the cottage cheese in the sauce if you need a dairy-free, paleo, or Whole30 option. Use extra mayo instead and reduce vinegar to 1–2 teaspoons. The sauce might be a bit thinner.
04 -
Curious about egg-free alternatives? Try making aquafaba mayo.
05 -
Keep leftovers fresh by storing patties in either your fridge or freezer.